Governor DeSantis Orders Execution for Florida Man in Shocking 1997 Sod Farm Double Murder Case

For a man found guilty of the vicious 1997 killings of a couple in Charlotte County, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has issued a death sentence. For the killings of Greg and Kimberly Malnory, James D. Ford, 64, is set to be put to death at Florida State Prison on February 13. Following a solitary execution in 2024, this would be the first execution in Florida this year. Under the guise of a fishing vacation, Ford, a former coworker of Greg Malnory at South Florida Sod Farm, enticed the couple to the isolated farm. Their remains were found the following day. Kimberly Malnory had been raped, beaten, and shot, while Greg Malnory had been shot, beaten, and had his throat cut.

After being left in their truck for more than eighteen hours, their 22-month-old daughter was discovered in good condition. In 1999, Ford was found guilty and given the death penalty. State and federal courts have routinely rejected his appeals. According to the Florida Supreme Court’s death warrant, “executive clemency is not appropriate” in this particular case. In recent years, Florida has applied the death penalty sparingly. Although there were no executions in 2020, 2021, or 2022, six prisoners were executed in 2023. Loran Cole’s execution in August 2024 for a 1994 murder was the most recent.

Ford’s lawyers are anticipated to file a lawsuit to contest the death warrant, even after earlier appeals were rejected. A timeline for possible judicial procedures has already been established by the Florida Supreme Court. To support the Tampa Free Press and independent journalism, kindly consider making a little donation. We are able to continue providing excellent local and national news coverage thanks to your gift.