Who is Michael Dewayne Smith? Michael Dewayne Smith Executed in Oklahoma After Double Murder

The state of Oklahoma has recently executed Michael Dewayne Smith, marking its first execution for the year 2024. Smith, aged 41 at the time of his execution, was convicted of a double murder dating back to 2002. His lethal injection brings closure to a decades-long legal process surrounding the heinous crimes he committed.

Who is Michael Dewayne Smith?

Michael Dewayne Smith was just 19 years old when he embarked on a drug-fueled crime spree in Oklahoma City, resulting in the deaths of Janet Moore and Sarath Babu Pulluru. He faced two counts of murder for these killings and was subsequently convicted and sentenced to death.

Despite various legal challenges, including appeals and applications for postconviction relief, the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals affirmed his convictions.

In his defense, Smith argued for habeas corpus relief in federal district court, citing reasons such as intellectual disability, errors in trial procedures, ineffective assistance of counsel, and cumulative errors affecting the fairness of his trial. However, these appeals were ultimately denied, leading to the execution of his sentence.

Michael Dewayne Smith Executed in Oklahoma Decades After Double Murder

Upon being asked for any last words before his execution, Smith simply responded, “Nah, I’m good.” His death by lethal injection marks the 12th execution in Oklahoma since the state resumed carrying out death penalties in 2021. This resumption came after a nearly seven-year hiatus due to problems encountered during previous executions, including instances of prolonged suffering by the condemned.

Smith’s murders were particularly brutal and senseless. Janet Moore was killed as Smith sought her son, whom he suspected of being a police informant. In a separate incident, Sarath Babu Pulluru lost his life due to mistaken identity, as Smith targeted him believing he was another convenience store clerk associated with negative comments about Smith’s criminal gang.

The execution itself proceeded swiftly, with Smith pronounced dead within minutes of receiving the lethal cocktail of drugs. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond expressed gratitude for the delivery of justice, a sentiment echoed by the families of the victims. Janet Moore’s family released a statement affirming that justice had been served, acknowledging the pain caused by the loss of their loved one.

Similarly, Sarath Babu Pulluru’s family honored his memory, stating that he would forever live in their hearts. Their collective statements reflect a sense of closure and relief following years of legal proceedings and emotional turmoil.

The execution of Michael Dewayne Smith brings an end to a tragic chapter in Oklahoma’s legal history. It underscores the state’s commitment to upholding justice and ensuring accountability for those who commit heinous crimes. While the execution may provide a sense of closure for the victims’ families, it also serves as a reminder of the irreversible consequences of violent actions.

As the legal process concludes, the memories of Janet Moore and Sarath Babu Pulluru endure, leaving behind a legacy of remembrance and the pursuit of justice.