Dec. 5 execution date for SC man in racial killing

An execution date has been set for a black man who authorities say raped and killed a white woman in South Carolina as retribution for centuries of racial oppression.

By AP
Published: November 17, 2008

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An execution date has been set for a black man who authorities say raped and killed a white woman in South Carolina as retribution for centuries of racial oppression.

Officials said Monday that 38-year-old Joseph Gardner will be put to death Dec. 5. His defense attorney didn't immediately return a phone message.

Gardner was among five men who prosecutors said raped 25-year-old Melissa "Missi" McLauchlin in December 1992 near Charleston, where Gardner was assigned to a Navy ship.

Authorities said the men later blindfolded and handcuffed McLauchlin, and forced her into a car. Investigators said Gardner shot her five times when she tried to escape.

A letter found in the car contained racial slurs and passages aimed at justifying revenge against whites.