Despite Objections, Brian Dorsey Put To Death For 2006 Double Murder

Missouri executed Brian Dorsey on Tuesday for a 2006 double murder despite objections from over 70 current and former corrections officers. The 52-year-old had been on death row for killing his cousin Sarah Bonnie and her husband Ben in their home in front of Sarah’s young daughter. Brian Dorsey pleaded guilty in 2008.

Brian Dorsey’s case garnered national attention due to the unusually strong support from prison staff who said he was reformed. Over 70 current and former officers signed statements in support of commuting his sentence. Saying Brian Dorsey was kind, gentle, and had an exemplary prison record. However, Governor Mike Parson denied his clemency appeal on Monday.

The Killings And Dorsey’s Claims Of Rehabilitation

Prosecutors said Brian Dorsey shot and killed Sarah and Ben Bonnie with their own shotgun. While their 4-year-old daughter was home. He later stole items to repay drug debts. Brian Dorsey’s lawyers argued he was in a drug-induced psychosis and had been fully rehabilitated during his 18 years on death row, serving as the prison barber with no issues.

The U.S. Supreme Court declined last-ditch appeals earlier in the day. Brian Dorsey was executed via lethal injection as scheduled. His case highlighted debate around Missouri’s execution protocols and whether they put inmates at risk of undue pain due to medical conditions like Brian Dorsey’s diabetes and obesity.