In Tennessee, the state’s oldest death row inmate faced execution for the murder of his wife and her two teenage sons.
Oscar Franklin Smith, aged 75, was convicted for the 1989 murders of his wife, Judith Robirds Smith, and her sons from a previous marriage, Chad and Jason Burnett, in Nashville.
Throughout his time in prison, Smith consistently claimed his innocence in the case.
On May 22, he was executed by lethal injection. Prior to his execution, he delivered a lengthy critique of the government and legal system.
Smith also criticized Governor Bill Lee, who had previously halted his execution at the last moment in 2022.
Smith stated: “Somebody needs to tell the governor the justice system doesn’t work.”
“He’s a damned fool if he doesn’t realize we’ve got [innocent] men at Riverbend waiting to die.”
“I’m not the first, and I won’t be the last.”
In his final moments, he allegedly insisted multiple times, “he didn’t kill her,” before ceasing to show signs of life.
The official time of death was recorded at 10:47 am local time.
In the aftermath of Smith’s execution, the victims’ family expressed their gratitude to law enforcement for enforcing the death penalty.
Terri Osborne, the sister of Robirds Smith, remarked: “The pain of losing Judy, Chad and Jason is something that we will continue to carry.”
“These are memories and wounds that will never fully heal.”
Osborne also highlighted the risks associated with domestic abuse, urging those in abusive or violent relationships to seek safety.
She acknowledged the difficulty of leaving an abusive spouse, stating it is ‘an incredibly hard thing to [do].’
She continued: “Through our heartbreak we are reminded of the devastating consequences of domestic violence.”
“For those who may be living in fear or in the grip of abuse please know that you are not alone.”
“We also pray for more resources and support will be made available to those who need that helping hand.”
Mike Robirds, Robirds Smith’s brother, concluded their message by stating: “No one should have to live in fear like our sister did, and no family should have to endure a loss like ours.”
If you are facing domestic violence, please remember you are not alone. The national domestic violence helpline Refuge is available 24/7 at 0808 2000 247.