Stay the Execution of Richard Knight

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Stay the Execution of Richard Knight

Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency

Gov. DeSantis has scheduled the execution of Richard Knight for May 21, 2026 at 6pm. Richard was sentenced to death for the 2000 murder of Odessia Stephens and Hanessia Mullings. This was a tragic crime and the loss felt by all who loved Odessia and Hanessia cannot be overstated, but killing Richard will not bring them back.

This petition will be updated when additional details become available. Last updated: 04/22/26

Sponsored by

Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty

To: Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency
From: [Your Name]

We, the undersigned, urge Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency to grant a stay of execution for Richard Knight.

We begin by remembering Odessia Stephens and Hanessia Mullings — two lives taken far too soon. Their family and loved ones were are inevitably still grieving their loss, and we cannot overstate that pain. At the same time, we cannot bring them back to life by executing Richard Knight.

Florida has an alternative: life without the possibility of parole. This sentence ensures accountability while avoiding the irreversible act of execution.

We ask you to honor the victims not with another act of violence, but with restraint, dignity, and care for all those impacted.

Please grant a stay of execution and end Florida's use of the death penalty.