Florida man to be executed for raping 13-y-o step-niece 50 years ago

A Florida man convicted of raping and killing his 13-year-old step-niece nearly 50 years ago is set to be executed Thursday evening.

James Ernest Hitchcock, 70, is scheduled to receive a lethal injection at 6 p.m. at Florida State Prison.

Hitchcock was first sentenced to death in 1977 for the July 31, 1976 killing of Cynthia Driggers, but was resentenced multiple times over the years following appeals.

According to court records, Hitchcock attacked the teen inside her home after drinking and smoking with friends, then beat and choked her before leaving her body in nearby bushes.

He later recanted his confession at trial, claiming his brother was responsible, but was convicted and remained on death row.

His latest appeals were denied by both the Florida Supreme Court and the US Supreme Court, clearing the way for the execution.

If carried out, it would mark Florida's sixth execution this year, following a record 19 executions in 2025 under Governor Ron DeSantis.

Authorities say executions in the state are carried out by lethal injection using a three-drug combination.

Meanwhile, another execution was also scheduled in Texas on Thursday involving a man who claims prosecutors used rap lyrics he wrote to help secure his death sentence.

A further execution is already set for May 21 in Florida.

- AP

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