James Ernest Hitchcock, a 70-year-old man convicted of murder nearly five decades ago, was executed on April 30 at Florida State Prison in Bradford County. His conviction stems from the tragic death of his brother’s 13-year-old stepdaughter, Cynthia Driggers, in 1976. The execution was confirmed by the Florida Appellate Case Information System.
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Hitchcock was put to death by lethal injection at approximately 6:12 p.m. local time, just weeks after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the execution warrant on March 30. This marks a significant moment in Florida’s judicial history, as Hitchcock’s case had been a focal point of legal appeals and discussions surrounding capital punishment for many years.
Prior to his execution, Hitchcock expressed a final message to a friend, stating, “Just to say goodbye to Joshua, my friend. Thanks for all you’ve done.” This farewell took place while he lay on a gurney in the execution chamber, a somber atmosphere prevailing as he contemplated his impending fate.
Hitchcock’s involvement in Driggers’ killing was detailed in court records, revealing a horrifying sequence of events. At the age of 20, he was living with his brother in Orlando when he invaded the young girl’s room, allegedly after consuming alcohol and marijuana with friends. Reports suggest that when Driggers indicated she would inform her mother about the assault, Hitchcock responded with violence, ultimately leading to her death. He later left her body concealed in a bush before returning to his daily life.
In the years following his conviction, Hitchcock attempted multiple appeals, but his 1977 sentence for first-degree murder was reaffirmed in subsequent resentencings in 1988, 1993, and 1996. At various points, he sought to shift the blame onto his brother, but these claims were ultimately dismissed by the courts, and his guilt was upheld.
Lynn Cobb, Driggers’ sister, shared her sentiments with the media following Hitchcock’s execution. “We will continue to remember Cindy by keeping her memory alive and always understanding that life is precious and time is valuable,” she remarked, highlighting the ongoing impact of the tragedy on their family and the broader community.
Hitchcock’s execution represented the sixth carried out by the state in 2026, as Florida grapples with its high-profile death penalty cases. This follows a record-breaking year in 2022 when the state executed 19 individuals. State officials remain resolute in enforcing capital punishment, a contentious issue that continues to evoke strong opinions across the nation.
As part of his final meal, Hitchcock chose a selection that included salad, chicken, ice cream, pie, and soda. He had the opportunity to spend time with a family member before the execution, underscoring the personal dimensions of a case that resonates deeply with the victims’ family and those involved in the legal proceedings.
In the week leading up to his execution, Hitchcock’s legal team made a last-minute appeal, arguing for his innocence and alleging misconduct by the state during the trial. However, these pleas were ultimately rejected by the Florida Supreme Court, which upheld the execution decision.
As communities reflect on the complexities surrounding this case, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions regarding crime, punishment, and the lasting impacts on families affected by such tragic events.