Florida Executes Man for 1976 Murder of Teen

May 1, 2026

68 min

May 1, 2026 07:31

Florida man executed for the killing of his brother's teenage stepdaughter nearly 50 years ago

## Execution of James Ernest Hitchcock

James Ernest Hitchcock, a 70-year-old man, was executed in Florida for the 1976 murder of his brother's 13-year-old stepdaughter, Cynthia Driggers. The execution took place at Florida State Prison near Starke, where Hitchcock was pronounced dead at 6:12 p.m. following a lethal injection.

## Details of the Crime

Hitchcock was convicted of killing Cynthia Driggers in July 1976. Court records revealed that he had moved into his brother's home weeks before the incident. After a night of drinking and drug use, he raped and murdered the teenager. Hitchcock initially confessed but later recanted, blaming his brother.

## Family Reactions

Cynthia's family expressed relief and closure following the execution. Her sister, Lynn Cobb, spoke about the impact of Cynthia's short life, while cousin Ginie Meadows emphasized the justice served. Another cousin, Chip Meadows, expressed a sense of freedom now that Hitchcock is no longer alive.

## Legal Proceedings

Hitchcock was originally sentenced to death in 1977, with multiple resentencing over the years. His final appeal was denied by the U.S. Supreme Court on the morning of his execution.

## Context of Executions in Florida

This marks the sixth execution in Florida this year, all under Governor Ron DeSantis. Florida led the nation in executions in 2025, with DeSantis overseeing a record 19 executions. Another execution is scheduled for May 21.

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