Whitaker, who reportedly “masterminded” the murder of his brother and mother, was spared after his father, who survived ordeal, asked for his son’s life to be spared.
Whitaker is only the third death-row inmate in 40 years to have his life spared on humanitarian grounds. Instead, Whitaker will serve life in prison without parole.
Whitaker’s father said he would be further victimized if his son was executed. His impassioned plea was enough to sway Abbott.