Wichita Massacre Brothers Seek Resentencing Hearing
Attorneys for two brothers sentenced to death in the notorious “Wichita massacre” will present arguments on Monday in favor of a formal resentencing hearing.
Jonathan and Reginald Carr were convicted of killing four individuals in 2000 after forcing them into sexual acts. Since then, they have filed numerous appeals, including an unsuccessful petition to the U.S. Supreme Court last year.
Historical Appeal Process
In 2014, the Kansas Supreme Court overturned the brothers’ death sentences but upheld their convictions, claiming that holding a joint sentencing hearing violated their constitutional rights. However, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed this decision in 2016, sending the case back to the Kansas court.
New Arguments
In the latest round of court filings, the attorneys for both brothers raise concerns about the effectiveness of their trial attorneys. They argue that their lawyers failed to adequately prepare, research mitigating evidence, and challenge potential biases among jurors.
Racial Considerations
Additionally, Reginald Carr’s attorney highlights an investigation into members of the Wichita Police Department for exchanging racist messages. He suggests that one of these individuals participated in the brothers’ investigation.
Differing Defenses
Jonathan Carr’s attorneys argue that he was unduly influenced by his older brother, while Reginald Carr’s attorneys claim that Jonathan was more actively involved in the crimes. They also question the reliability of DNA evidence and witness identification.
Kansas Death Row
Kansas currently has nine men on death row, but no executions have been carried out since 1965.
