INDIANAPOLIS (WNDU) - Indiana Gov. Mike Braun says he will not stop the execution of Roy Lee Ward, who is on death row for the rape and murder of a 15-year-old girl in 2001.

“After carefully reviewing the unanimous recommendation from the State Parole Board, I have decided to allow the execution of Roy Lee Ward to proceed as planned for October 10,” Gov. Braun said in a statement sent to WNDU 16 News Now.

Ward was found guilty of raping and killing 15-year-old Stacy Payne in 2001 in Spencer County. He has been sentenced to death twice in the case.

According to our sister station WTHR , the Indiana Parole Board listened to emotional testimony about whether Ward’s life should be spared during a daylong clemency hearing last week.

Following the testimony, the board unanimously recommend

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