By Sohaib Shams
The Indiana Parole Board has unanimously recommended that Governor Mike Braun deny clemency for Jeffrey Weisheit, 50, who was sentenced to death for the 2010 arson murders of his girlfriend's two children in Evansville.
Parole Board Recommendation
Board chairperson Gwendolyn Horth wrote to Braun on Wednesday stating the panel's unanimous recommendation to deny Weisheit's request for a life sentence. The execution by lethal injection is scheduled for November 5.
Crime Details
In April 2010, Weisheit set fire to the home while the children's mother, Lisa Lynch, was at work. The bodies of 8-year-old Alyssa Lynch and 5-year-old Caleb Lynch were found in the ruins; Alyssa was in a closet, and Caleb was on a mattress restrained with duct tape with railroad flares placed on his body.
Clemency Hearing
During a two-day hearing, Weisheit admitted there was no excuse for his actions and expressed a desire to live and help others in prison. His lawyer, Joseph Perkovich, cited a history of head injuries and mental health issues that he said received insufficient attention at the 2013 trial. The board acknowledged the mental health information but found it did not greatly distinguish Weisheit from most incarcerated individuals.
Victims' Families Respond
Lisa Lynch told the board by video that clemency is meant for those showing genuine remorse and valuing human life, which she said Weisheit lacked. The children's father, Steven Lynch, said he would accept a life sentence.
Governor's Decision
Governor Mike Braun has the final authority to grant or deny clemency. An email to Weisheit's attorney seeking comment on the board's recommendation was not immediately returned.
