Florida Nears Execution Record: DeSantis Signs 20th Death Warrant

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a death warrant for Jesse Guardado, marking Florida's 20th scheduled execution this year. The state is on pace to surpass its modern-era execution record, previously set in 2025.

Guardado, 64, is scheduled for execution Nov. 5 at Florida State Prison. He was convicted of the 2004 murder of Jackie Malone, 75, in Walton County. Malone had provided Guardado housing and employment after his release from prison. During a crack cocaine binge, Guardado attacked Malone in her home, striking her with a tool, stabbing her, slitting her throat, and stealing her purse, jewelry box, briefcase, and cellphone. He pleaded guilty and received a death sentence in October 2005.

The state's current pace could exceed the 19 executions carried out in 2025, the highest single-year total since capital punishment resumed in Florida in 1976. Three other executions are scheduled before Guardado's: James Robertson, 63, and William Lee Thompson, 74, on Oct. 13, followed by William Reaves, 77, on Oct. 20.

Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty expressed concern that issues seen in other states could arise in Florida, noting that William Lee Thompson is gravely ill. Florida uses a three-drug lethal injection protocol: Etomidate, Rocuronium bromide, and Potassium acetate. The state discontinued pentobarbital use in 2013 due to supply shortages.