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Ninth reprieve fails as Chessman faces execution
San Francisco AP reports Daryl Whittier Chessman, imprisoned on San Quentin Death Row for kidnapping and sex offenses, endured nine reprieves over 12 years. The May 2, 1960, scheduled gas chamber execution was halted only by a late phone call, provoking worldwide protests and fueling the death penalty debate. Chessman argued his conviction lacked unequivocal proof. supporters recall his humanity and insist he would not be executed under modern due process. His case drew prominent legal figures and became a symbol in the capital punishment debate.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
San Francisco
Daryl Whittier
Chessman
San Quentin
Los Angeles
William Bennett
U.S. Supreme Court
California
California Supreme Court