The Indiana Parole Board has unanimously recommended that Gov. Mike Braun deny a clemency request from Jeffrey Weisheit, who is scheduled for execution on November 5 for the murders of two children in an arson case. Weisheit was convicted of murder and arson for setting a house fire in 2010 that killed his girlfriend’s two children, 8-year-old Alyssa Lynch and 5-year-old Caleb Lynch.
During a hearing on the clemency request, the board heard testimony from Weisheit, his legal team, the children’s parents, and first responders. Weisheit, 50, stated on October 16 that he has no excuse for his actions and wishes to live to improve the lives of others in prison. His attorney, Joseph Perkovich, acknowledged the gravity of the crimes, known as "unspeakable," and highlighted Weisheit's history of head injuries and mental health issues that he argued were not sufficiently addressed during his 2013 trial.
The parole board, in its recommendation penned by chairperson Gwendolyn Horth, stated that while they considered the information regarding Weisheit's mental health, it did not significantly differentiate his case from many other incarcerated individuals. The board's recommendation focuses on the legal right Weisheit has to seek clemency, with the final decision resting with Governor Braun.
Lisa Lynch, the children’s mother, testified by video, asserting that clemency is intended for those who show genuine remorse and value human life. She stated that the murder of her children demonstrated neither mercy nor humanity. The children's father, Steven Lynch, indicated that he would accept a life sentence for Weisheit.
According to court documents, authorities found Caleb Lynch’s body on a mattress, restrained with duct tape, with a railroad flare in his underwear. Alyssa Lynch’s body was discovered in a closet.
Lawyers for the state noted that Weisheit had withdrawn funds and canceled an engagement ring order prior to the fire, indicating a planned departure. Weisheit had reportedly told the jeweler he would be leaving the country soon.