Story perspectives

Execution Looms for Accomplice Amid Fairness Debate

2/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Charles "Sonny" Burton, 75, faces execution in Alabama for his role as an accomplice in a 1991 robbery that resulted in the death of Doug Battle, and Governor Kay Ivey has the authority to set an execution date.
Doug Battle, who was shot by Derrick DeBruce, died in the incident.
Charles Burton was outside during the shooting and did not fire.
Burton's attorney argues the execution raises fairness concerns because Derrick DeBruce received a life sentence.
The victim's daughter and several jurors from the original trial support clemency, saying they would not have recommended death if the shooter would receive a lesser sentence.

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Story summary

Charles "Sonny" Burton, 75, faces execution in Alabama for his role as an accomplice in a 1991 robbery that resulted in the death of Doug Battle, and Governor Kay Ivey has the authority to set an execution date.
Doug Battle, who was shot by Derrick DeBruce, died in the incident.
Charles Burton was outside during the shooting and did not fire.
Burton's attorney argues the execution raises fairness concerns because Derrick DeBruce received a life sentence.
The victim's daughter and several jurors from the original trial support clemency, saying they would not have recommended death if the shooter would receive a lesser sentence.