STOP the Execution of Matthew Johnson

Texas intends to execute Matthew Johnson on May 20, 2025 for the 2012 murder of Nancy Harris.

We oppose this execution as we do every execution. Capital punishment is an act of state sanctioned violence that violates the sacred dignity of every human life. In the words of Saint Pope John Paul II, “The dignity of human life must never be taken away, even in the case of someone who has done great evil.”

To be sentenced to death in Texas, jurors must unanimously find that the prosecution has proved, beyond a reasonable doubt, that there is a probability the defendant will constitute a continuing threat to society if he is not executed (known as “future dangerousness”).

In Matthew Johnson’s case, that prediction has been false. Any acts of violence in his life are directly tied to his abuse of cocaine, which he does not do while in prison. Johnson’s drug and alcohol use began when he was as young as seven years old. According to his friends and family members, Johnson was a completely different person when he was under the influence of drugs.

In 2002, Johnson sought help with overcoming his addiction, but his insurance covered less than two weeks of treatment, and he relapsed shortly after leaving the facility. He suffered another serious relapse ten years later, during which time he killed Mrs. Harris. Removed from any access to cocaine during his 12 years of incarceration on death row, Johnson has not been a threat to anyone. On the contrary, he has participated in the faith-based program and maintained close relationships with his wife and three daughters.

Contact Gov. Greg Abbott and the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles today urging them to stop the execution of Matthew Johnson.