A final statement is a death row inmate’s last words. Often, a death row inmate is given the right to make a final statement before he is executed. In some cases, death row inmates take this time to apologize for their crimes while others assert their innocence a final time. Others say goodbye to family members, friends, and supporters, and some even say prayers aloud. In some cases, however, death row criminals use their final statements to say last words of defiance, often including profanity that may be directed at the victim's family, the legal system, the executors, or prison guards.
It is common practice to allow a death row inmate to give a final statement just before his execution begins. Often, there are similarities among the statements. For example, many inmates use their final statements to apologize. The apologies are often for the things they have done wrong. Some apologize not only to the victims' families and loved ones, but also to their own families for committing crimes that caused them emotional pain. Others may just apologize to no one in particular.
Often, death row inmates include messages of forgiveness in their final statements as well. For example, a death row inmate may tell those who will execute him that he forgives them, in advance, for doing so. This is a common statement an inmate may make without regard to whether or not he is guilty. For instance, a death row inmate may claim he is innocent but state that he forgives the justice system for taking his life despite his innocence. Others may not assert they are innocent but state they consider executions unfair, barbaric, or murder before offering their forgiveness as well.
Sometimes an inmate’s final statement is used to profess his innocence a last time while another inmate may confess for the first time. Some inmates may want others to know they will not change their professions of innocence. Other inmates may want to confess their crimes before they die.
Prayers or talk of God also are often included in an inmate’s last statement. An inmate may pray that he will be received by God after death, or he may say he knows he is going to meet God. Sometimes an inmate’s last statement also includes talk of going to meet other loved ones who have already died.
Some death row inmates make final statements that are filled with anger. They may curse the legal system, lawyers, or even the victim. Often, they direct their words of anger at the prison guards or warden as well. Some refuse to say anything at all.
