Missouri Governor Denies Mercy Plea for Convicted Child Killer's Execution

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has rejected a clemency plea from Johnny Johnson, who is set to be executed for the abduction and murder of a 6-year-old girl in 2002. Johnson's attorneys argue that he is mentally incompetent, but various courts have rejected these claims. Parson stated that Johnson's crime was one of the most horrific murders he has encountered and hopes that the execution will provide closure for the victim's loved ones. Johnson's relatives have mixed opinions, with Casey's great aunt urging the governor to proceed with the execution. Johnson would be the fourth person executed in Missouri this year and the 16th nationally.