For Immediate Release

October 15, 2025

Charles Ray Crawford Executed by the State of Mississippi

               PARCHMAN, Miss. – The State of Mississippi executed Charles Ray Crawford by lethal injection tonight at the Mississippi State Penitentiary.

Charles Crawford was executed without ever receiving the fair trial we are all guaranteed. Mr. Crawford’s inexperienced trial counsel conceded his guilt to the jury—against Crawford’s timely and repeated objections. Mr. Crawford told his counsel to pursue a not guilty verdict. Counsel did just the opposite, which is precisely what the U.S. Supreme Court says counsel cannot do.

Despite a legal system that failed him, Charles Crawford (“Chuck”) spent every day in prison trying to be the best person, family member, friend, and Christian he could be. He was a model inmate in prison, and he was one of the rare people trusted with working inside and outside the building where he was housed. Chuck was known as a force for good in prison. He was also a stabilizing force—someone who calmed tensions, resolved conflicts, and helped everyone. He tried to live by the saying, “he who throws dirt is losing ground.” He wanted his actions and words to bring comfort, teach, express love, and reassure.

When Chuck found out about his execution date, his first response was, “I want to do the most good I can do, and make the most positive impact I can make, with what time I have left.” His next response was to make sure that his legal team—those of us who considered him a dear friend—were okay. He quoted John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Charles Crawford was a son, a brother, a father, a grandfather, and a friend to many.

Mr. Crawford and his legal team express their deep and sincere sympathy for the family of Kristy Ray.

####