Richard Bernard Moore, who had spent 25 years on death row, was executed by lethal injection on November 1, 2024, at the Broad River Correctional Institution in Columbia, South Carolina. The execution followed his conviction for the 1999 murder of James Mahoney III, who worked as a clerk at Nikki’s Speed Mart during an attempted robbery.
Moore, now 59, was pronounced dead at 6:24 p.m., just over 20 minutes after the state began the execution process. The procedure drew attention not only because of the length of time it took to reach this point but also due to the contentious nature of Moore’s case. Witnesses, including media representatives and Mahoney’s family, observed his final moments as he expressed remorse for the crime.
“To the family of Mr. James Mahoney, I am deeply sorry for the pain and sorrow I caused you all,” read Moore’s final statement, delivered by his attorney, Lindsey Vann. He also shared words of love for his family, thanking them for their support over the years.
Media witnesses described Moore's demeanor as calm, with his eyes closed, as he took several deep breaths before he became still. Officials confirmed his death shortly thereafter. Among the witnesses were two members of Mahoney's family, who maintained stoic expressions throughout the execution. They, alongside others, expressed their grief for the loss of Mahoney, whom they remembered as kind and devoted.
Hours leading up to Moore's execution involved passionate pleas for clemency from various figures, including three jurors from his original trial who argued against executing him. They believed Moore had demonstrated significant reform and redemption during his time in prison. Governor Henry McMaster, who holds the ultimate authority on clemency decisions, denied all requests after reviewing letters and speaking with Mahoney’s family.
Despite the high-profile nature of his case, the execution proceeded, marking it as the second execution since South Carolina resumed capital punishment procedures in September after more than a decade-long hiatus.
On the night of his execution, Moore was served his final meal which included steak, fried catfish, and sweet potato pie, reflecting his customary last requests.
The case has drawn attention, not simply for the execution itself, but for the wider discussions surrounding ethics and the death penalty, particularly since Moore entered the store unarmed with no intention of committing homicide, as his lawyers noted. They contended his initial defense team did not adequately represent his case, overlooking key elements surrounding the robbery and subsequent confrontations.
Moore's lawyers and supporters pointed to discrepancies, arguing the nature of his trial was influenced by racial biases, as he was convicted by an all-white jury, which raises questions about fairness and representation within the judicial system. Critics noted the irony of Moore's execution compared to figures like Susan Smith and Alex Murdaugh, who instead received life sentences for their respective crimes.
Outside the prison grounds, a group of demonstrators gathered, some holding vigils and others rallying against the death penalty. Activists stated their belief—as expressed by protestor Joanna Kramarczyk—“we can combat violence with love, not more violence.”
After the execution, discussions intensified about the future of capital punishment, especially with the backdrop of Moore’s case and his supporters’ arguments for humanity and rehabilitation over capital punishment. Legal representatives highlighted Moore’s transformation over the years, describing him as not merely a prisoner but also as someone capable of mentor roles and contributing positively to the community behind bars.
Moore’s case and execution serve as yet another flashpoint in the debate over the death penalty. With advocates on both sides standing firm, the state of South Carolina grapples with what could be considered justice and retribution within its legal framework, echoing larger questions about morality and ethics surrounding capital punishment.
