Florida Supreme Court Halts Execution of Ex-Cop Convicted of Rape and Murder

DNA testing still pending in high-profile case that has drawn scrutiny over the state's death penalty practices

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:18am

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The Florida Supreme Court has temporarily halted the execution of a former police officer convicted of raping and murdering an 11-year-old girl in 1987. James Aren Duckett, 68, was scheduled to be executed by lethal injection on Tuesday, but the court issued a stay to allow for pending DNA testing that Duckett argues could exonerate him.

Why it matters

This case has drawn significant attention due to the severity of the crimes, Duckett's former role as a police officer, and ongoing concerns about the application of the death penalty in Florida, which executed a record number of inmates in 2025 under Governor Ron DeSantis.

The details

Duckett was convicted in 1988 of first-degree murder and sexual battery in the death of 11-year-old Teresa McAbee. Evidence at trial included blood and hair linking Duckett to the victim, as well as tire tracks matching his patrol car. Three teenage girls also testified that Duckett had previously given them rides and made sexual advances. Duckett has maintained his innocence and sought DNA testing as part of his appeals process.

  • On May 11, 1987, 11-year-old Teresa McAbee disappeared after getting into Duckett's patrol car.
  • McAbee's body was found the next morning less than a mile away.
  • Duckett was convicted in 1988 and sentenced to death.
  • Duckett's execution was scheduled for Tuesday, March 26, 2026.
  • On March 27, 2026, the Florida Supreme Court issued a stay of execution to allow for pending DNA testing.

The players

James Aren Duckett

A 68-year-old former police officer in Mascotte, Florida, convicted of raping and murdering an 11-year-old girl in 1987.

Teresa McAbee

An 11-year-old girl who was raped and murdered in 1987.

Ron DeSantis

The Republican governor of Florida who oversaw a record number of 19 executions in the state in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.