In the case of Johnny Frank Garrett, we believe that the courts should take into consideration not only the fact that he was a juvenile at the time of the crime, but also that there is evidence, not admitted in the previous court proceedings, that he had suffered brain damage, was abused as a child and was addicted to drugs. He is now diagnosed as chronically psychotic. With those of Pope John Paul II, of Archbishop Agostino Cacciavillan, papal pro-nuncio to the United States, as well as with the Voices of Amnesty International, the Franciscan Sisters of Mary Immaculate of Amarillo and with the voices of other religious communities, as well as with other groups and individuals. Our concern is raised to a new level in this case because, if executed, Garrett will be the third individual suffering the death penalty in Texas for a crime committed while a juvenile. We, as religious leaders, are gravely concerned about the increase of violence in our state.
Violence seems to be begetting more violence.
At the same time, there is no compelling evidence that the death penalty is deterring murder in Texas or elsewhere. We address this appeal first to Federal Judge Mary Lou Robinson of Amarillo, asking her to grant a new trial for Garrett so important evidence can be admitted to the court process. Second, we appeal to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles to commute Garrett's death penalty to life imprisonment without parole. We further seek the support of Gov. Ann Richards for this request. This appeal is raised through Archbishop Patrick Flores, archbishop of the Archdiocese of San Antonio representing the undersigned bishops of the state of Texas gachered in prayer in San Angelo.