We stand together to urge you to stop the scheduled execution of Norman Mearle Grim, Jr. and grant clemency. This does not mean excusing harm or diminishing accountability. Life without parole ensures separation, safety, and accountability without perpetuating the cycle of violence.

Mr. Grim was without state court counsel until four days after his death warrant was signed. His prior attorney retired years ago and never formally withdrew, leaving him unrepresented. Despite this constitutional violation, the state rushed forward with an execution date. Now, Grim’s newly appointed counsel has only a few days to review decades of court records and submit their initial filing. This is an unreasonable ask under any circumstances, let alone while facing down an impending execution.

We are alarmed by Florida’s record pace of executions — more people have been put to death this year than in any year in our state’s history. At the same time, Florida leads the nation with 30 death row exonerees, a stark reminder of how often our system gets it wrong. Each execution risks compounding irreversible error, and every death sentence demands the highest scrutiny.

The death penalty is irreversible. We respectfully ask that you stay the execution of Norman Mearle Grim, Jr., scheduled for October 28, 2025, and grant clemency.