Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, criticized the recent commutation of Julius Jones’ death sentence to life in prison without the possibility for parole.

“It is with great sadness and grief that I reflect on the events of yesterday. Justice was not carried out. There was overwhelming evidence of the guilt of Julius Jones in the horrific murder of Paul Howell. The proper response would have been the carrying out of the death penalty,” Olsen said. “The Howell family deserved proper justice and they didn’t get it. My heart grieves for them.

“This is probably the end of the death penalty in the state of Oklahoma. Many people may rejoice at this. I do not. The law abiding people of the state of Oklahoma will eventually pay the price for this. The death penalty serves the interests of justice, order and peace in our society.”

Rep. Regina Goodwin, D-Tulsa, praised Gov. Stitt for the computation but criticized him for ordering Jones to serve a life sentence without chance of parole.

“Thanking God, Julius lives to see another day,”Goodwin said. “I appreciate Governor Stitt’s choice to spare his life. Mrs. Jones can hug her son. Raising concerns and questions of legality is Governor Stitt’s Executive Order stating that Julius Jones will not be eligible to apply for or be considered for commutation, pardon or parole for the remainder of his life. Doubt in the case remains and this innocent man should not be in prison. The difficult journey towards justice for Julius continues. So many supporters across Oklahoma and the world have been difference makers.”

“The death penalty has no place in this world and should be removed from Oklahoma’s constitution,” said Rep. Mauree Turner, D-Oklahoma City. “I am dedicated to working alongside Oklahomans to end it.”