Oklahoma to Execute Phillip Hancock for 2001 Double Murder, Despite Self-Defense Claim

Oklahoma is scheduled to execute Phillip Hancock for a 2001 double murder, despite his claims that the killings were in self-defense. The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board recommended clemency in a 3-2 vote, but the final decision lies with Governor Kevin Stitt. Hancock's attorneys argue that he killed the victims, who were known outlaws, in self-defense during a physical altercation. The execution is set for 10 a.m. Hancock's conviction and death sentence have been upheld on appeal, and the state attorney general's office argued against clemency, stating that the evidence disproves Hancock's self-defense claim.