California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced his decision to not grant clemency to San Quentin death row prisoner Clarence Ray Allen just two days before the execution. Allen's lawyers unsuccessfully petitioned the US Supreme Court to stop the execution based on the argument it would be cruel and unusual punishment because of the inmate's physical condition. Allen, whose 76th birthday was Monday, January 16th, was blind, partially deaf, and had used a wheelchair routinely since he was revived after a heart attack several months ago, according to prison officials.

A day of action to protest the execution of Clarence Ray Allen was held on Monday, January 16th. The day started with a Walk for Abolition from San Francisco to San Quentin Prison. There were also protests in Sacramento, Fresno, Palo Alto, Berkeley, San Rafael, El Cerrito, and many other cities in California. Read more. A vigil was held at San Quentin State Prison in Marin County on Monday night. Bright Path Video streamed live from the vigil, beginning at 9:00pm. Photos From The VIgil

Past Indybay Coverage of the Case of Clarence Ray Allen