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July 8, 2011

Texas Executes Mexican National Despite Denial of Consular Rights 
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A Mexican national has been executed in Texas despite widespread
objections, reaching as far as the White House. Humberto Leal Garcia was
killed by lethal injection Thursday shortly after the Supreme Court
declined to hear his case in a 5-to-4 vote and Texas Gov. Rick Perry
refused to issue a stay. The Obama administration had called for a delay
following disclosures Leal was never informed he could have access to
Mexican consular officials, as is required under international
conventions. Leal was convicted for the 1994 kidnapping, rape and murder
of Adria Sauceda, a 16-year-old girl. A Texas prison spokesperson said
Leal's last words included an apology to the victim's family.

Michelle Lyons: "He gave a lengthy last statement. He said: 'I am sorry
for everything I have done. I've hurt a lot of people. For years, I have
thought that I never deserved any type of forgiveness. Lord Jesus Christ
in my life, I know He has forgiven me. I have accepted this forgiveness.
I have accepted everything. Let this be final and be done. I take the
full blame for this."

In seeking a delay, the White House said flouting international treaties
at home could endanger U.S. citizens arrested abroad by establishing a
precedent for denial of diplomatic access.



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