NEW: Chafee Remains Opposed to Death Penalty for Jason Wayne Pleau
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Governor Chafee on Monday reaffirmed his opposition to capital punishment, only hours after federal prosecutors indicated they would seek the death penalty against accused murderer Jason Wayne Pleau.
Pleau stands accused of killing a gas station attendant outside of a Woonsocket bank nearly two years ago.
The Governor released the following statement:
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“I always knew that it was possible the federal government would seek the death penalty in this matter and for that reason, I opposed the transfer of Jason Pleau to federal custody. Under the federal Interstate Agreement on Detainers law, states have the right to refuse to transfer prisoners in their custody for public policy reasons. As a matter of public policy, Rhode Island opposes the death penalty for any crime. Today’s decision does not alter the state’s position and we will continue to vindicate Rhode Island’s rights under federal law. The law firm of Akin Gump will pursue this case pro bono in the Supreme Court of the United States.”