James Duckett executed in Florida for 1987 murder

James Duckett, a 68-year-old former police officer, was executed by lethal injection on July 28 at Florida State Prison. Duckett was convicted for the 1987 rape and murder of 11-year-old Teresa McAbee, who was last seen in his patrol car while he was on duty for the Mascotte Police Department.

Authorities believe Duckett is also responsible for the death of 14-year-old Jeanifer Weldon, who disappeared in September 1987. Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd stated that law enforcement officials previously declined to pursue a conviction for Weldon’s death to avoid legal delays that might have prevented Duckett’s execution. Families of both victims attended the execution, seeking closure after nearly four decades.