Alabama governor commutes death sentence of man who didn’t kill anyone
Alabama Governor Commutes Death Sentence of Man Who Didn’t Kill Anyone
On Tuesday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey decided to reduce the death sentence of Charles “Sonny” Burton to life without parole. The execution, originally scheduled for Thursday, was deemed “unjust” by the governor, who highlighted the disparity in the sentences of those involved in the 1991 AutoZone robbery that resulted in the victim’s death.
Legal Doctrine Explained
Under the felony murder rule, prosecutors can hold individuals accountable for a killing that occurs during a felony, even if they didn’t directly commit the act. This principle allowed Burton’s sentence to be carried out, despite his role as an accomplice rather than the shooter.
Victim’s Daughter Speaks Out
“Doug Battle was brutally murdered by Derrick DeBruce while shopping in an auto parts store. But DeBruce was ultimately sentenced to life without parole. Charles Burton did not shoot the victim, did not direct the triggerman to shoot the victim and had already left the store by the time the shooting occurred. Yet Mr. Burton was set to be executed while DeBruce was allowed to live out his life in prison,” Ivey stated.
Earlier this month, Burton described his role in the crime during a phone interview from the William C. Holman Correctional Facility, where Alabama carries out executions. He claimed he had no prior knowledge of the murder, stating, “I didn’t assist nobody. I didn’t aid nobody. I didn’t tell nobody to shoot nobody.”
Disappointment from Legal Team
“There has never been any doubt that Sonny Burton has Douglas Battle’s blood on his hands,” said Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall. “Burton does not deserve special treatment because he is old—he could have been executed a long time ago, but like many death-row inmates, he chose to prolong his case through repeated appeals.”
Burton’s family and legal team expressed appreciation for the governor’s decision, noting it was the second time Ivey had commuted a death sentence. “Governor Ivey’s choice reflects measured and respectable leadership,” said federal defender Matt Schulz. “Though a simple ‘thank you’ doesn’t fully capture our gratitude, we’re pleased with the outcome.”
Execution Method and Historical Context
Burton’s commutation means he will avoid being the ninth person executed by nitrogen gas in Alabama, a method introduced in 2024. His case underscores the ongoing debate about the fairness of capital punishment, particularly in situations where the guilt of participants is unevenly applied.
Abigail Brooks is a producer for NBC News. Dan Slepian is an award-winning investigative producer and a veteran of “Dateline: NBC.” Jackie Montalvo is a producer-editor for NBC News.
