Lawyers for Wade Wilson have asked for a delay in next week's death penalty decision after scores of women sent letters to the judge pleading for the life of the convicted killer.
Last month, Wilson, 30, was found guilty in the October 2019 fatal strangulations of Kristine Melton, 35, and Diane Ruiz, 43, in Cape Coral, Florida.
In 9-3 and 10-2 votes, the jury recommended Wilson be put to death for the women's gruesome slayings, but the final decision on his fate rests in the hands of Lee County Circuit Court Judge Nicholas Thompson.
Citing scheduling conflicts, Wilson's defense team claimed two of their four mental health experts did not have "sufficient advance warning so as to modify their respective schedules" to test and interview their client in time for the July 23 Spencer hearing, during which arguments and witness statements will be heard ahead of sentencing, the Fort Myers News-Press reported, citing court documents.
"Without their potential testimony, the defense has little evidence to present for the Court's consideration at the Spencer hearing," the documents state.
The appeal for next week's postponement comes days after it was revealed Wilson's inbox has been flooded with thousands of letters from admirers, with several women reaching out to Judge Thompson, himself, begging him to spare Wilson's life.
"As someone who cares unconditionally for Wade, I have deeply reflected on the gravity of the situation and the impact of your decision," Heidi Cox of Visalia, California wrote, according to Newsweek. "While I understand the severity of the crime committed, I believe that a life sentence would allow Wade the opportunity to reflect, repent, and contribute positively within the confines of prison."
Lindsay Brann of Canada asked the judge to consider Wilson's mental health when making his decision.
"I am not saying he shouldn't serve time for the crimes he committed but I am not certain that the death penalty would be the best option," Brann wrote, according to the outlet. "This will still leave Mr. Wilson in a prison system for potentially years waiting and he will still have mental health issues, it won't fix the problem or the person and it won't bring back the two women he killed."
This is the second time Wilson's team has requested a delay in court. Last month's penalty phase began four days late after one of his attorneys, Lee Hollander, claimed he was sick.
