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South Carolina Executes Sixth Inmate in Nine Months

6/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Stephen Stanko, 57, faced lethal injection in South Carolina on Friday, becoming the sixth inmate executed in just nine months. Convicted of brutally murdering his girlfriend and her daughter, as well as a friend for money, Stanko's last words conveyed remorse, yet Governor Henry McMaster denied his plea for clemency.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty in 1976 with Gregg v. Georgia, leading to over 40 executions in South Carolina. Governor Henry McMaster has overseen recent lethal injections, including Stephen Stanko's execution on June 13, 2025. This case highlights ongoing debates about the morality and effectiveness of capital punishment, as well as calls for criminal justice reform in America.

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Story summary

Stephen Stanko, 57, faced lethal injection in South Carolina on Friday, becoming the sixth inmate executed in just nine months. Convicted of brutally murdering his girlfriend and her daughter, as well as a friend for money, Stanko's last words conveyed remorse, yet Governor Henry McMaster denied his plea for clemency.

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