George H. Ryan

Governor

October 25, 2002

Dear Mr.

Thank you for your letter concerning the issue of possibly commuting the death sentences of those currently on Illinois' death row. Over the past few years as Governor, I have done my best to insure that our system of justice is fair and accurate. The Commission on Capitai Punishment has done a tremendous job of taking a comprehensive look at Illinois' system of capital punishment and making many recommendations for reform. Bringing fairness to the death penalty, however, will not be an easy task and so I will need your continued support.

I have not decided what I will do on the issue of commutation. However, since all those on death row in Illinois were placed there by a flawed and inadequate justice system, I do believe that I have a moral obligation, as Governor, to carefully and thoroughly consider the possibility of commuting sentences and individually reviewing each case.

Again, thank you for your kind words and your continued support in working toward a more just, fair and accurate criminal justice system in Illinois.

GHR/goca/sjr/jam