In a narrowly divided decision, the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board has moved to recommend clemency for Tremane Wood, a decision that has Attorney General Gentner Drummond openly expressing disappointment. Wood, convicted of the 2002 murder of 19-year-old Ronnie Wipf during a robbery in Oklahoma City, has been on death row but may potentially see his sentence commuted if the Governor accepts the board's recommendation. According to Oklahoma's official website, Drummond had personally opposed clemency due to Wood's continued criminal activities from prison, including drug distribution and gang violence.
The board's decision, made by a vote of 3-2, comes despite evidence presented by the state that Wood still managed to actively participate in a criminal network from behind bars. This included the possession of contraband cell phones and orchestration of violence, further evidenced by a video shown to the board depicting a beating that Wood allegedly paid for and then requested to be sent to him. "After this dangerous criminal took a young man’s life, he stayed fully active in the criminal world from behind bars. I am disappointed by the Pardon and Parole Board's decision today but appreciate their thoughtful deliberation. My office will continue to pursue justice for Ronnie Wipf. We intend to make our case to the governor on why clemency should not be granted and why the death sentence, as determined by a jury, should be carried out," Drummond said, signaling the state's intention to strongly advocate against the recommendation to the governor, according to the Oklahoma's official website.
Attorney General Drummond stated that he intends to advocate against clemency for Wood and supports carrying out the jury’s death sentence. He also expressed respect for the Pardon and Parole Board’s deliberations. The board’s recommendation now moves to the Governor for a final decision.
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