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| Condemned N.C. man attempts to use new law |
| By The Charlotte Observer |
| Published: 01/14/2002 |
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A new N.C. law that recently spared one death row inmate's life has been invoked by the lawyer for a Charlotte murderer sentenced to death for killing a Myers Park widow. Patrick Steen, condemned to death for the 1996 murder of 80-year-old Virginia Frost, is among at least seven death row inmates who have appealed their sentences under a new N.C. law banning the execution of the mentally retarded. The law, signed by Gov. Mike Easley in August, prompted a Bladen County judge on Dec. 12 to overturn two death sentences for convicted killer Sherman Skipper. Steen, who says he suffered brain damage in a 1991 motorcycle accident, is hoping for similar results. His lawyer filed court papers earlier this month that included the new law as possible grounds for overturning his death sentence. Under the new law, North Carolina's 215 death row inmates have until Jan. 31 to ask for a court hearing to determine whether they are retarded. The law requires defendants to score 70 or below on an IQ test. They must also show significant limitations in their ability to work, learn, communicate with others and take care of themselves. Evidence of mental retardation must have been manifested before 18. |
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