In a recent development, Missouri is scheduled to carry out its second execution of the year, as Governor Mike Parson rejected death row inmate David Hosier's plea for clemency. Hosier, 69, expressed frustration over his legal team's representation during a phone call from the state prison in Bonne Terre.

Hosier has maintained his innocence in the 2009 murders of Jefferson City couple, Angela and Rodney Gilpin. His clemency petition, a 19-page document, emphasized childhood trauma from the murder of his father as a mitigating factor. However, Hosier disagreed with the approach taken by his lawyers, urging them to focus on the lack of DNA evidence at the crime scene.

Prosecutors portrayed Hosier as a scorned ex-lover seeking revenge after Gilpin ended their romantic relationship and reconciled with her husband. They cited incriminating evidence found in Hosier's car, including firearms, ammunition, a bulletproof vest, and a note suggesting a disregard for honesty and potential consequences.

Despite Hosier's claims of innocence, he rejected a plea deal that would have spared him from capital punishment if he admitted guilt. The Missouri Supreme Court upheld his conviction in 2019, and there are no further appeals pending in his case.

In response to the pleas from Representatives Cori Bush and Emmanuel Cleaver to halt the execution, Governor Parson released a statement explaining his decision. Parson cited Hosier's lack of remorse and the senseless violence he committed, stating that maximum punishment under the law is warranted.

Hosier's execution is scheduled to take place Tuesday evening, and he has gone through a range of emotions during recent interviews from prison. Last month, he was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation while being moved from the prison to a hospital.

Though Hosier will continue to maintain his innocence until the end, the state of Missouri is prepared to carry out the execution, closing another chapter in this controversial and closely-watched case.