Edward James Executed 3/20/2025
Tonight, the State of Florida executed Edward James. It was the State's second execution in the State in 2025.
Tonight, the State of Florida executed Edward James, carrying out his sentence of death that was imposed over three decades ago. It was the second execution in the State in 2025. James was 63 years old and was on Florida’s death row for three decades.
Unprecedented Delay
Yesterday, the Department of Corrections (DOC) announced that the execution was delayed to 8:00 p.m. (More on that here.) The reason for the delay is unclear. In an email responding to my inquiry, DOC said it “will carry out the execution at 8:00 p.m. in accordance with its legal authority.”
When pressed on the issue at a press briefing this afternoon, a DOC spokesperson gave the same answer (audio provided by John Koch):
It was announced this morning that Gov. DeSantis planned to attend a 4:00 event at the White House. At 4:30, Kaitlin Collins (CNN) confirmed Gov. DeSantis was at the White House:
This could have to do with the schedule change—but it’s unclear.
SCOTUS Petitions
As of this morning, James had three pending petitions for writ of certiorari. (More on the petitions here.)
Around noon, the U.S. Supreme Court denied each of James’ pending petitions for writ of certiorari. There was no dissent.
Information About the Execution
At the 5:30 press conference, DOC officials reported that James’ last meal was fried catfish, potato salad, hush puppies, cookies, soda, and coffee. James did not have any visitors before the execution.
The time of death was 8:15 p.m.
The victims’ family members attended the execution and spoke at the press conference immediately following, saying that the execution brought closure to the family. (You can read more in the news reports.)
FADP Statement
Immediately after the execution, Floridians for Alternatives tot eh Death Penalty issued a statement that said in part:
While people may disagree on whether or not the death penalty is an appropriate punishment, there should be no dispute that the process, especially when carrying out an execution, should be met with solemnity and dignity, and not whimsically moved around to accommodate political schedules and photo ops.
The death penalty should never be wielded as a political weapon.
The full statement can be found here.
News Articles About the Execution
2025 Executions
Below is a map of where the crimes occurred that led to the 2025 executions. The relevant county is also where the execution-related litigation is venued in each case.
TFDP Prior Coverage of the James Warrant
My thoughts are with everyone involved in the warrant- and execution-related process.