Family members of a woman brutally murdered in 1998 are urging Utah officials to move forward with the scheduled execution of the convicted killer. The victim's relatives presented emotional testimony about the lasting trauma inflicted on their Native American community by the crime.
The convicted killer, Taberon Dave Honie, is seeking clemency from Utah's parole board to commute his death sentence to life in prison. He faces a planned lethal injection on August 8 for the murder of his girlfriend's mother after a day of heavy drinking and drug use.
Relatives of the victim, Claudia Benn, described her as a pillar in their family and community. They testified against commuting the death sentence, highlighting Benn's role as a tribal council member, substance abuse counselor, and caregiver for her family.
In 1998, Honie broke into Benn's house in Cedar City, Utah, and brutally attacked her, resulting in her death. The crime took place in front of Benn's grandchildren, including Honie's own daughter.
During the hearing, Honie's attorneys presented testimony about his childhood trauma, including abuse and exposure to substance abuse. However, prosecutors argued that Honie's actions had caused further trauma and suffering.
Honie expressed remorse for his actions, stating that he was not in his right mind during the murder. He pleaded for a chance to live out his sentence in prison to remain in his daughter and granddaughter's lives.
Despite objections from the defense, Honie's execution warrant was signed last month. The planned lethal drug combination was later changed after legal challenges.
The parole board is expected to make a decision on Honie's clemency request in the coming days.
