Alabama Governor Commutes Toforest Johnson's Death Sentence to Life Without Parole

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey on October 20, 2026, commuted Toforest Johnson's death sentence to life in prison without parole. The conviction for the 1995 killing of deputy William Hardy is not overturned. Ivey cited insufficient direct evidence for execution, saying this is not a finding of innocence. Johnson's attorney says he is innocent and will pursue a new trial.