Protesters speak out against death penalty during Nichols’s execution

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF) – During the execution of Harold Wayne Nichols, News 12 visited the protest held outside the Riverbend Max security prison.

Demonstrators gathered to vocalize their opposition to the death penalty as it was being carried out.

News 12’s Lillian Yi reported that several protesters said they do not know what justice looks like for the victim, Karen Pulley.

However, they believe that the death penalty is not the answer.

Nichols had been charged with more than a dozen rapes, as well as the rape and murder of Karen Pulley.

Protesters said their stance remains firm because they do not believe that taking another life will bring justice.

Stephanie Dunn, who opposes the death penalty, shared her thoughts.

“I believe murder does not erase murder. This will not solve any of the issues. I hope that there is healing. I do not know what role today would have in that.”

When asked what justice might look like, Dunn said she did not have an answer.

“I cannot answer specifically for her. I do not want to try to answer that question because she is on her own journey, which is heartbreaking. I do not want to put anything on her.”

Another protester, Beth Howard, said her faith does not allow her to support this punishment.

“I think it is important to remember that anything that happens today will not erase the anguish that the family feels. Putting this man to death will not end death. She will find peace in her heart at some point. We pray for her. We pray for that family.”

The protesters who gathered emphasized compassion, healing, and the belief that justice cannot be achieved through another loss of life.