Texas inmate facing execution for 2000 fatal shooting says new evidence points to his innocence

Published February 27, 2024 11:02 PM

By JUAN A. LOZANO
Associated Press

HOUSTON (AP) — A Texas inmate who has long said he’s innocent and claims that his conviction more than 20 years ago was based on false testimony and questionable evidence is facing execution for fatally shooting two people, including his cousin. Ivan Cantu is scheduled to receive a lethal injection Wednesday evening at the state penitentiary in Huntsville. The 50-year-old was condemned for the November 2000 deaths of his cousin, James Mosqueda, and his cousin’s girlfriend, Amy Kitchen. Prosecutors have said Cantu killed Mosqueda, who dealt illegal drugs, and Kitchen as he tried to steal cocaine, marijuana and cash from his cousin’s home. Cantu claims a rival drug dealer killed his cousin over a dispute about money.

Article Topic Follows: AP National

Jump to comments ↓

Associated Press

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KIFI Local News 8 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.