Phillip Hancock Executed in Oklahoma Despite Clemency Recommendation and Self-Defense Claim

Hancock becomes the fourth person executed in the state this year, despite allegations of substance abuse by his trial attorneys and a delayed decision by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

Phillip Hancock, 59, was executed in Oklahoma for the 2001 murders of two men, despite claiming self-defense and a recommendation for clemency from the state parole board.
Hancock's lawyers argued that he was lured to the home of one of the victims, where he was attacked and forced to defend himself.
The execution was delayed for over an hour as officials reached out to Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, who ultimately declined to commute Hancock's sentence.
Hancock's lawyers also claimed that his trial attorneys were struggling with substance abuse during the case and failed to present important evidence.
This is the fourth execution in Oklahoma this year and the 11th since the state resumed executions in October 2021.