BOISE, Idaho – Attorneys representing a man on death row in Idaho have filed a request for clemency, citing a change in the stance of the original sentencing judge. Thomas Creech, 73, has been awaiting execution since 1983 for the murder of fellow inmate David Jensen in 1981. Despite multiple appeals, Judge Robert Newhouse had upheld the death sentence. However, in the recent petition, Newhouse expressed a belief that Creech should not be executed and that a life sentence without parole would be a sufficient punishment.
The Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole will now consider whether to grant Creech a clemency hearing. If approved, this hearing could potentially lead to a change in his sentence. The Idaho Department of Correction has confirmed that they possess the necessary chemicals for a lethal injection execution, but they are not required to disclose the source of these chemicals.
Creech’s attorneys argue that he has undergone a significant transformation during his time on death row. They describe him as a profoundly remorseful individual who has been actively improving the lives of prison staff. Former prison employees have also provided testimony attesting to Creech’s changed behavior. For instance, Ronald Gus, a former correctional officer, received a condolence letter from Creech in the form of a poem after his wife’s death. Another former staff member, Kathy Niecko, credited Creech with stopping the mistreatment of a fellow employee and creating a safer environment within the prison.
In their petition, Creech’s attorneys emphasize the fact that he has demonstrated exemplary behavior while in prison. They also raise concerns about the potential for botched executions and the emotional toll this can have on prison staff. Ultimately, it will be up to the Commission of Pardons and Parole to decide whether Creech will be granted a clemency hearing. If they do grant the hearing and recommend a change in Creech’s sentence, the final decision lies with the governor.
Thomas Creech, who has been on death row for over four decades, now awaits the decision of the Commission of Pardons and Parole regarding his request for clemency.
