Loran Cole Scheduled for Execution in Florida

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a death warrant for Loran Cole, 57, who was convicted of the 1994 murder of Florida State University student John Edwards. Cole is scheduled for execution on August 29 at Florida State Prison, marking the first execution in Florida since October. Cole and an accomplice, William Paul, attacked Edwards and his sister while they were camping in the Ocala National Forest. Edwards was killed by a slashed throat and head injuries, while his sister was sexually assaulted and later freed herself. Cole was convicted of first-degree murder, kidnapping, robbery, and sexual battery, while Paul pleaded no contest and was sentenced to life in prison. The signing of the death warrant is expected to initiate expedited legal proceedings.