MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – Indiana is preparing to execute a man convicted of the 2001 rape and murder of 16-year-old Stacy Payne of fremont, Indiana.Robert Ward is scheduled for execution, pending no further legal challenges. The case,which gripped the small town of Fremont,is now drawing renewed attention as the state moves forward with the planned lethal injection.
Ward’s conviction stems from the brutal killing of Payne, an honour student and cheerleader who was last seen alive after leaving her job at a pizzeria. Her body was found days later, leading to a lengthy investigation and ultimately, Ward’s arrest and conviction in 2007. The case has remained a source of profound grief for Payne’s family, notably her mother, Julie Wininger, who has meticulously marked each of the 8,000-plus days since her daughter’s death.
Recent legal challenges regarding the execution drug and chamber conditions have been dropped. Attorneys for the state confirmed the pentobarbital to be used in Ward’s execution is manufactured, not compounded, addressing concerns about drug deterioration.They also provided assurances regarding proper handling and temperature control.
Wininger, addressing the parole board, pleaded for justice, stating, ”We will never see Stacy smile again…never hear her voice.” she described her daughter’s life as “short but filled with so much meaning.” Payne was known for her love of the song “You Are My sunshine.”
Ward, who has declined interview requests, did not comment at his sentencing. He also declined a parole board interview, citing a desire not to inflict further pain on Payne’s family. His attorneys have stated he is remorseful but struggles to articulate his feelings. In a September 17 affidavit, Ward explained his decision to forgo the parole board appearance, stating, “due to my learning disability and language impairments the messages I mean to convey are sometimes challenging for me to accurately express.”
Attorneys have also revealed Ward was recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.Despite his limited public statements, those close to him within the prison system say he has undergone a change. Deacon Brian Nosbusch, a spiritual advisor, stated, “He’s not hiding the fact that it happened…He’s definitely a changed person.” Ward has renewed his faith, was baptized while incarcerated, and maintained contact with spiritual advisors who attest to his regret.He also cared for a cat named Sadie through a prison program, who has since been rehomed. ward lost relatives while imprisoned, including his mother, who relocated to Michigan City to be near him.
