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Parole Board Rejects Clemency For Van Hook

Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

Attorneys for a condemned Ohio killer are criticizing the state parole board's recommendation against clemency for their client. 

The attorneys say they're troubled by the board's suggestion that Robert Van Hook's military service could only be considered an argument against execution if it had led to the inmate's post-traumatic stress disorder. The attorneys say the U.S. Army service of  Van Hook is worthy of consideration for mercy by itself, because of the "nature and magnitude" of veterans' sacrifices. The board on Friday ruled 8-1 against Van Hook's clemency request. Van Hook was sentenced to die for strangling and stabbing David Self in Cincinnati in 1985. Van Hook's execution is set for July 18. Ohio Governor John Kasich has the final say.

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