January 1, South Carolina Sets Execution For Taunting Killer

Wyatt’s Take

• The state’s top court is taking a hard line on violent crime.
• Families of victims have waited years for justice.
• Debate continues over execution methods in the modern era.

South Carolina’s Supreme Court has set an execution date of November 14 for Stephen Bryant, who brutally killed Willard “TJ” Tietjen in 2004.

Bryant left a chilling message at the scene and confessed to the crime, refusing to show regret or mercy.

Bryant’s request to delay was denied after his lawyers cited federal government shutdown complications.

Prosecutors say he also killed two other men that same month, making this case part of a larger spree.

His execution options include lethal injection, firing squad, or electric chair, with his choice due by October 31.

South Carolina updated its laws to let executions resume by protecting drug suppliers and adding more methods after a long pause caused by a lack of lethal drugs.

This marks the state’s 50th execution since the death penalty returned in 1985.

The families waiting for closure will finally get answers, but the state debate over execution methods remains heated.

Source

Wyatt Matters

Folks across Middle America want accountability for the worst crimes, and this case serves as a reminder that law and order still matter for the safety of our families and the justice owed to victims.