We, the undersigned, together with the family and friends of Kenneth Smith, urge Governor Kasich to commute Kenneths death sentence. Kenneth was sentenced to death for the murder of Louis and Ruth Ray.

- Kenneth, as a child, lived in a horrific, violent and dysfunctional environment. This evidence was available at the time of trial but was neither investigated nor presented to the jury. As a result, the courts reviewing his case on appeal have never heard this evidence in order to determine if Mr. Smiths death sentence was appropriate.

- Kenneths co-defendant, his brother Randy, has the same background and history. Kenneth and Randy were tried by separate juries. Randy received a life sentence while Kenneth was sentenced to death.

- During incarceration, Kenneth was diagnosed with stage three laryngeal cancer. He underwent extensive surgery and can only speak with the aid of an artificial device implanted in his throat. He must rely on the use of a suction machine to keep from choking on his saliva and to clear out the valve in his neck. He must sleep in an elevated hospital bed as his condition does not allow him to lie flat without suffering from choking and drowning sensations.

We deeply sympathize with the family and friends of Louis and Ruth Ray, but we respectfully offer that another death will neither heal nor resolve this tragedy.

Action petitioned for: We, the undersigned, are concerned citizens who urge Governor Kasich to commute the sentence of Kenneth Smith to life without parole.