From McAlester to the state capitol, supporters of Julius Jones breathed a sigh of relief at 12:10 p.m. Thursday afternoon. Julius Jones would not be executed. 

Supporters say this has been a battle they have fought for years, bringing questions to light and growing support. 

News 9’s Tevis Hillis was with supporters when the news of Jones’ commutation came down. She spoke with Jabee Williams immediately after the decision was announced. He spoke about the support of all the people who made the trip to McAlester in protest. 

Jones family and the Justice for Julius Coalition said they thank God for the commutation, but their fight is far from over. 

While Jones is no longer on death row, he will spend the rest of his life in McAlester. Governor Stitt made clear in his commutation that Jones would never be able to apply for pardon or parole again. That decision is expected to be challenged by the coalition.