Activists Vow to Continue Tookie's Legacy

Williams, 51, a co-founder of the notorious Crips street gang, was executed by lethal injection early Tuesday morning for the 1979 robbery-murders of four people in the Southland.

The execution went ahead as scheduled following Schwarzenegger’s decision to deny clemency Monday. In his statement, the governor declared William’s guilt to be overwhelming.

“The possible irregularities in Williams’ trial have been thoroughly and carefully reviewed by the courts, and there is no reason to disturb the judicial decisions that uphold the jury’s decisions that he is guilty of these four murders and should pay for [them with] his life,” he wrote.

Authorities began the process to administer the lethal injection at 12:01 a.m. in the execution chamber at San Quentin State Prison near San Francisco. His death was announced 34 minutes later. Seventeen reporters witnessed the execution and gave their accounts afterward.

Los Angeles Times columnist Steve Lopez said Williams offered “no resistance” but raised his head several times and looked toward his supporters and the press gallery.

“I feel pained by the governor’s decision to choose revenge over redemption,” said the Rev. Jesse Jackson, speaking outside the gates of the prison with other demonstrators.

Local activist Najee Ali said he was not surprised by the outcome and accused Schwarzenegger of playing politics.

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