THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, September 8, 1996 TAG: 9609050013
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 26 lines
The letter (8/30) ``Squealers or crime watch?'' caught my attention. Having followed the case of Dennis Wayne Stockton, I understand the testimony of a felon with a 20-year rap sheet was the only person to accuse him of murder for hire. Was that because the ``conscientious, law-abiding and caring citizens'' referred to in this letter had nothing to report?
One would assume the informant was able to cut a deal for his cooperation. The state was able to execute Dennis Stockton on Sept. 27, 1995, for ``a capital offense.'' Was justice served?
The United Nations did not believe it was, for they cited this execution in a report in February of this year.
Three new witnesses came forward, prepared to say that someone else committed the murder. But an archaic rule in Virginia does not permit evidence of innocence to be presented more than 21 days after a trial, despite doubts about guilt that linger.
Perhaps that is why ``squealers'' are heard. Apparently there is no time limit in Virginia for them to come forward.
MARY C. ALLEN
Norfolk, Aug. 31, 1996 by CNB