Death Row Stories

By François PicardSociety & Culture Documentary

Death Row Stories episodes

May 18, 2025 On Death Row Since 2016: What the Jury Wasn’t Told
🔎 Who decides who lives—and who dies?In this new episode of Death Row Stories, we dive into the case of Demond Depree Bluntson, a Texas man incarcerated since 2012 and sentenced to death in 2016.His story spans years of legal twists, personal contradictions, and unanswered questions. In May 2025, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals issued a major opinion about it.What did the jury know at the time? And more importantly—what didn’t they?🎙️ This narration is based on official judicial records.📸 Images in this video are artistic interpretations and do not represent real events or people.👉 If this new kind of storytelling resonates with you, let us know. Like, share, and help us grow Death Row Stories.Subscribe to stay informed and engaged with the stories that need to be told.Discover our YouTube Chanel:
https://youtube.com/@death-row-stories?feature=shared
8 min
May 11, 2025 Sent to Death Row on Junk Science — Can a Law Save Them?
Can discredited forensic science send innocent people to death row?Texas was the first state to pass a law—known as the Junk Science Law (Article 11.073)—giving prisoners a chance to challenge their convictions when the science used against them has since been debunked. But more than a decade later, is the law actually helping?
In this episode of Death Row Stories, we speak with Estelle Hebron-Jones, Attorney and Director of Special Projects at the Texas Defender Service. She explains how Texas courts are dealing with death penalty cases involving outdated, flawed, or unreliable science. We explore infamous cases like Cameron Todd Willingham, Rodney Reed, Robert Roberson, and DeMontreal Miller—some based on fire myths, others on shaken baby syndrome or changing expert opinions.
Despite the law’s promise, many claims are still denied—not on the facts, but because of procedural barriers, legal technicalities, or the reluctance of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals (CCA). Estelle reveals why the system often blocks relief, even when innocence is plausible—and how lawmakers are now pushing for reform.
Listen now to discover what happens when science fails in the courtroom—and whether justice can still be served.

You can also discover our show on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@Death-Row-Stories

Email me at: [email protected]

46 min
February 08, 2025 He Escaped Death Row—Then Stopped Another Execution
Anthony Graves spent 18 years behind bars—12 of them on death row—for a crime he didn’t commit.Wrongfully convicted based on false testimony, Graves endured solitary confinement, relentless pressure to accept a plea deal, and the unimaginable weight of being labeled a murderer. But his story didn’t end with his release. Instead, it marked the beginning of his mission to expose the flaws of the justice system.Discover how a dedicated journalist, a determined prosecutor, and Graves’ own unbreakable spirit led to his exoneration. Then, see how his experience became a powerful force in stopping the execution of Alfred Dewayne Brown, using the very lessons he learned on death row.This episode isn’t just about survival—it’s about purpose, resilience, and the fight for justice.✨ Watch until the end for the unexpected twist that changed everything.#DeathRowStories #AnthonyGraves #WrongfulConvictions #CriminalJusticeReform #Exoneration #TrueCrimeSubscribe to stay informed and engaged with the stories that need to be told.

Our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/@death-row-stories?si=X_9WvgctUFlr8_Dj

Our Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/deathrowstories/Discover our podcast:On Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/death-row-stories/id1754379361On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xDKhLb0evGfwsJKjjQ0SAOn Amazon Music:https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/47642512-7d12-4814-8145-127f6b32ba3b/death-row-storiesOn Deezer:https://www.deezer.com/us/show/1001446841?host=0&utm_campaign=clipboard-generic&utm_source=user_sharing&utm_content=talk_show-1001446841&deferredFl=1Email me at: [email protected]
33 min
January 31, 2025 How Texas Sent an Innocent Black Man to Death Row
How Texas Sent an Innocent Black Man to Death Row | Anthony Graves’ Shocking Story
Imagine being taken from your home, accused of a brutal crime you didn’t commit, and sentenced to die—all without a shred of evidence. This is the unimaginable reality Anthony Graves faced.
In this powerful third part of our exclusive interview, Anthony shares the harrowing moments of his sentencing, the pain of hearing his family testify to save his life, and the shocking racism that infiltrated the justice system. He also reveals chilling details about life on death row: the daily fight to survive, the heat that killed inmates, and the humanity stripped from those condemned to die.
Anthony’s story is a searing indictment of a broken system—and a reminder of the strength it takes to survive against all odds.
Don’t forget to subscribe for the final part of Anthony’s story, where a shocking twist will leave you speechless.
If you believe in justice, share this video to help others learn the truth.
#AnthonyGraves #DeathRow #InnocentMan #TrueCrime #RacialInjustice

Our YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@Death-Row-Stories/videos

Email me at: [email protected]
Sentencing and Death Sentence
Anthony’s attorneys urge him to let his family testify to save his life, but he resists, seeing the trial as a farce. His mother describes him as the family’s strength, his sister explains how he helped her, and his sick son pleads for his father’s life. Despite this, the jury sentences him to death within 90 minutes, with no evidence. He condemns the jury for nearly murdering an innocent man.
Psychiatrist’s Biased Testimony
Dr. Walter Quijano testifies that Anthony is a future danger simply because he was convicted. Years later, Quijano is exposed for giving racially biased testimony in multiple death penalty cases.
Life on Death Row
Anthony arrives in 1994 at 29 years old. At first, he isolates himself, believing he doesn’t belong there. Over time, he realizes many inmates are human beings who made mistakes, had poor legal defense, or were mentally ill. He watches more than 400 executions.
Drugs, sex, and money circulate in prison. Female officers and inmates form relationships, and some men prey on weaker inmates, including cases of rape.
He makes friendships, and many inmates choose him to say goodbye before their executions. Some are relieved to die, too exhausted to keep fighting. On execution days, the prison is silent, and many inmates refuse meals in protest.
Extreme Heat and Son’s Stroke
Texas summers make the cells unbearably hot, sometimes 20 degrees hotter than outside. Anthony and others strip naked and pour water on the floor, but it quickly becomes boiling hot. He witnesses a man die of heatstroke.
His mother writes to tell him his eldest son, who has sickle cell anemia, had a stroke and was in a coma. The boy miraculously wakes up on the day doctors planned to declare him dead. Anthony is allowed to call his mother and learns that his son is recovering.
Encounter with Robert Carter
Years later, Anthony is placed in the same recreation group as Robert Carter, the man whose false testimony put him on death row. Carter apologizes, admitting he lied and tried to tell the truth. Anthony forgives him—not for Carter’s sake, but for his own peace of mind. Carter is executed in 2000.
Carter’s Dying Words
Before his execution, Carter uses his final words to declare Anthony’s innocence. Despite this, it takes nearly 10 more years for Anthony to be freed.
The Overturning of His Conviction
In 2006, a guard hands Anthony a note from another inmate. Assuming it’s bad news, he opens it to find out the Fifth Circuit Court has overturned his conviction. He wants to celebrate but stays silent out of respect for those still sentenced to die. Instead, he lies on his bunk, crying in relief.
Realizing he has been given a second chance, he commits himself to exposing the injustices of the system and making sure his story is never forgotten.
34 min
January 18, 2025 "I Was Framed for MURDER!" Anthony Graves' Story
"I Was Framed for MURDER!" In this gripping second part of the tenth episode of Death Row Stories, Anthony Graves shares the nightmare of being wrongfully convicted of a brutal crime he didn’t commit.
Anthony was living a normal life in Brenham, Texas, when Texas Rangers showed up and arrested him out of the blue. He had no idea why.
His case exposes the harsh realities of racial prejudice and systemic injustice in America. How could an innocent man be accused and convicted without evidence? Anthony recounts his powerful journey of resilience, the fight for truth, and the impact this ordeal had on his life.
This is more than just a story—it’s a call to action. Watch now to hear Anthony’s voice and learn the urgent truth about wrongful convictions in America.
26 min
January 13, 2025 Falsely Accused: Anthony Graves Speaks Out
In this powerful episode, we begin uncovering the extraordinary life of Anthony Graves, a man who faced unimaginable circumstances after being falsely accused. Arrested for a crime he didn’t commit, Anthony's journey through the justice system will leave you speechless.
Anthony is the author of Infinite Hope, a memoir that delves into his harrowing experience.In this first part of his story, we start at the beginning of his nightmare. How does someone go from an ordinary life to being accused of something so heinous? And what happens next?
This is a story of resilience, courage, and the fight for truth that everyone needs to hear.
Don’t miss this compelling narrative—subscribe to our channel to support the show and ensure more people discover these vital stories.
Key topics covered in this video:
Falsely accused and arrested
Justice system failures
Anthony Graves' story of survival and hope
Join the conversation in the comments!
What do you think about Anthony’s story so far?
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you won’t miss the next part of this incredible story.
Explore Anthony’s book, Infinite Hope, to learn more about his fight for justice.

#DeathRowStories #AnthonyGraves #TrueCrime #FalselyAccused #JusticeSystem #DeathRow #InfiniteHope
Subscribe to stay informed and engaged with the stories that need to be told.
Discover our podcast:
On Apple Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/death-row-stories/id1754379361
On Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/6xDKhLb0evGfwsJKjjQ0SA
On Amazon Music:
https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/47642512-7d12-4814-8145-127f6b32ba3b/death-row-stories
Email me at: [email protected]
23 min
December 30, 2024 The Woman Who Attended Over 400 Executions
What drives someone to witness over 400 executions? In this ninth episode of Death Row Stories, meet Gloria Rubac, a retired teacher who has spent decades outside the Huntsville Unit on execution days, vocally opposing the practice when lethal injections are carried out. She has become a determined and unwavering figure in one of the world’s most controversial practices. What compels her to return, time and time again? Is it protest, compassion, or something deeply personal? Watch as we uncover the untold story of a woman whose life is intertwined with the stark reality of death row.

By subscribing, you support the creation of impactful content that sheds light on these compelling narratives. Hit the subscribe button and join our journey into the complex world of life, justice, and death row.

36 min
November 25, 2024 Perillo's Miracle: Facing Execution and Defying the Odds - Ep 4 (Part 5)
In this unforgettable finale of Pamela Perillo’s story, she opens up about the harrowing reality of life on Death Row. From the looming shadow of execution to the resilience it took to survive, Pamela shares raw, emotional moments that will leave you speechless. What does it feel like to be days away from death? How did she find hope in the darkest of times?
This is not just a story of survival—it’s a journey of redemption, faith, and the power of second chances.
👉 Don’t miss this powerful conclusion to her story. Subscribe for more eye-opening accounts from Death Row Stories.
#DeathRowStories #TrueCrime #Survival #PamelaPerillo #JusticeSystem #TexasDeathRow
Subscribe to stay informed and engaged with the stories that need to be told.
Discover our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@Death-Row-Stories
Produced by Culture-Aventure
45 min
November 25, 2024 The Death Penalty Capital of the World Gets a New DA... Now what?
Harris County, Texas, known as the Death Penalty Capital of the World, just elected a new District Attorney. With Sean Teare taking office, questions arise: Will this shift bring any change to the county’s long-standing approach to capital punishment?
In this episode of Death Row Stories, I uncover what Sean Teare has said about the death penalty, explore the impact of Harris County’s DA on its implementation, and share a glimpse of my conversation with Estelle Hebron-Jones from the Texas Defender Service.
Could this new DA signal a turning point—or is it business as usual?
Watch now to uncover the realities behind this high-stakes election.
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more from Death Row Stories.
#DeathPenalty #HarrisCounty #DeathRow #Justice
Subscribe to stay informed and engaged with the stories that need to be told.

6 min
November 20, 2024 Crime, Justice, Churches, and Love: The Steven Nelson Case | Death Row Stories Ep 7.
A shocking crime. A divided community. Two churches at odds. This episode delves into the complex case of Steven Nelson, whose death penalty trial became a battleground for fairness, justice, and love. With his execution scheduled for February 5, 2025, this case has resurfaced as a pivotal moment to discuss the death penalty, its impact, and the questions it raises.
Filmed in Arlington, Texas—where the tragic events unfolded—this story brings together voices deeply connected to Steven’s journey. His girlfriend, Hélène Noa Dubois, opens up about their relationship, while Reverend Jeff Hood, Steven's spiritual adviser, shares insights into faith and redemption.
How did a crime shake an entire community and pit two churches against each other? What does this case reveal about love, faith, and the fight for fairness in the justice system? Watch now to uncover the gripping details of a story that continues to resonate.
Subscribe to stay informed and engaged with the stories that need to be told.
Discover our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@Death-Row-Stories
Produced by Culture-Aventure.
24 min

About Death Row Stories

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to Death Row Stories, a podcast dedicated to exploring the complex and often harrowing world of the death penalty in the United States. I’m François Picard, a journalist and documentary director with over 20 years of experience. Throughout my career, the most impactful reports I produced were those about death row. In this podcast, I shed light on the human stories behind the death penalty, offering firsthand accounts and in-depth analysis. Join me as we uncover the realities behind these 2 words.