The New York Times

Friday, June 22, 2000

Statement by Gov. George W. Bush

Following is the text of the statement Thursday night by Gov. George W. Bush in Austin, Texas, after appeals were exhausted for Gary Graham:

When I was sworn in as governor of Texas, I took the oath to uphold the laws of our state, including the death penalty. My job is to ensure our state's laws are enforced fairly. This is a responsibility I take very seriously because the final determination of innocence and guilt is among the most profound and serious decisions a person can make.

I recognize that there are good people who oppose the death penalty. I have heard their message, and I respect their heartfelt point of view.

On Oct. 28, 1981, Mr. Gary Graham was found guilty of capital murder and later sentenced to death by a Harris County jury, which concluded beyond a reasonable doubt that he shot and killed Mr. Bobby Lambert during the course of a robbery. The murder of Mr. Lambert marked the beginning of a weeklong crime rampage during which, by his own admission, Mr. Graham committed at least 10 armed robberies involving 13 different victims. Two of his victims were shot, one was kidnapped and raped at gunpoint.

Over the last 19 years, Mr. Graham's case has been reviewed more than 20 times by state and federal courts. Thirty-three judges have heard and found his numerous claims to be without merit.

In addition to the extensive due process provided Mr. Graham through the courts, the Board of Pardons and Paroles has thoroughly reviewed the record of this case as well as all new claims raised by Mr. Graham's lawyers. Today the Board of Pardons and Paroles voted to allow Mr. Graham's execution to go forward. I support the board's decision.

Mr. Graham has had full and fair access to state and federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court.

After considering all the facts, I am confident justice is being done. May God bless the victims, the families of the victims, and may God bless Mr. Graham."