Supreme Court Says Texas Must Let Pastor Touch/Pray With Death Row Inmate

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The U.S. Supreme Court is ruling in favor of a death row inmate who claims the State of Texas violated his religious freedoms. The Court voted 8-1 that the state placed an "unnecessary burden" to John Martinez's liberties when they denied his request to let a pastor touch and pray over him during his execution. Chief Justice John Roberts said Texas did not explain why other jurisdictions allow audible prayer but they could not. Ramirez's execution was put on hold while the case was being argued, but can be rescheduled once the state changes its policy.


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