Texas
June 7, 2005
On June 7, 2005, the state of Texas is scheduled to execute Alexander Martinez, a 28-year-old Latino man, for the August 2001 murder of a 45-year-old white woman in Harris County.
Martinez stabbed the prostitute to death on August 12, 2001 in the city of Houston. He does not deny responsibility for the murder nor attempt to justify his actions. Instead, he expresses deep regret and remorse. “There was no justification for what I did,” says Martinez, “I am ashamed for what I did and I am a firm believer that actions speak louder than words.”
Martinez was convicted of first-degree murder on December 6, 2002 and sentenced to death. His conviction and sentence were affirmed on mandatory direct appeal.
At a hearing on May 20, 2004, Martinez waived his right to all further appeals. In a recent letter in which he attempted to offer an explanation as to why he chose to forego his appeals, Martinez stated, “I don’t want to be what I have come to be in this life. I don’t want to simply exist in this life. I want to live a life where I have free will and choices to make for myself.” He further remarks, “I have nothing to live for.”
Martinez’s desire to be executed appears to be fueled by feelings of despair and hopelessness. By permitting Martinez’s execution to proceed, Texas may very well be merely assisting in the suicide of a depressed individual. Please contact Gov. Rick Perry and express your conviction that Martinez's life should be spared.
