Central Alabama CrimeStoppers and Prattville Police have turned to the public for assistance in locating and identifying a man wanted for a strong arm robbery. The crime happened January 30th in the parking lot of a Wal-Mart store in Prattville. Authorities said the suspect stalked, then snatched a purse from a couple moments after they had cashed a tax refund check. CrimeStoppers has posted a photo of the suspect on its website. The CrimeStoppers number is 215-STOP. Law enforcement agencies are urging residents to be wary of increased criminal activity, especially robbery and scams, during the tax season.
Anniversary Planning
Events planned for the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March increase with each passing week. Chief of Staff for the Montgomery Mayor's office, Anita Archie is coordinating all of the events onto a master calendar. She is quick to note that the city doesn't control the commemoration, but is playing host to many of the activities. Archie says the city is partnering with other organization for the Dream Marches On Tour. The youth tour takes place March 23rd through the 27th to coincide with spring break. The week culminates with a commemorative march from St. Judge to the steps of the State Capitol where Dr. Martin Luther King's daughter, Rev. Bernice King will recite "How Long, Not Long." More information on events related to the anniversary can be found at the website, dreammarcheson.com.
Execution Halted
The Alabama Supreme Court has blocked an execution set for next month. The nine justices issued an order Wednesday staying the execution of William Ernest Kuenzel. He was set for lethal injection on March 19th for killing a convenience store clerk in Sylacauga in 1987. The Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals was scheduled to consider his case during oral arguments scheduled about three weeks after the planned execution. The inmate's attorneys argued it would be unconstitutional to execute Keunzel before the arguments could be held. Keunzel, who has been on Alabama death row for 27 year, maintained his innocence throughout his trial and appeals.