A convicted murderer declined to express regret for the killing of a young mother before his execution on death row. Michael Lee King’s final statements, focusing on his religious conversion in prison, were criticized by the family of his victim Denise Amber Lee, whom he sexually assaulted and killed 18 years ago.
Denise’s father, Richard Goff, disapproved of King’s lack of remorse and suggested that if he couldn’t genuinely apologize, he shouldn’t have spoken at all. King’s execution was witnessed by Denise’s husband Nathan, one of Lee’s sons, and other family members at a state prison in Starke, Florida, all wearing pink shirts in honor of Denise’s favorite color.
Despite not offering an apology, King spoke about his religious beliefs and attempt to follow the teachings of Jesus. Following the execution, Mr. Goff emphasized the importance of speaking from the heart. Noah Lee, Denise’s son who was only two years old when she was killed, expressed his ongoing sense of loss for not knowing and being raised by his mother.
King had abducted Denise, 21, in January 2008, bound her in his car, and assaulted her before she managed to call the police for help. Despite her pleas during the call, King drove her to a remote area, where he fatally shot her and buried her. He was later stopped by a police officer based on a description from a witness who heard screams from King’s vehicle.
Evidence linking King to the crime, including Denise’s belongings, was found in his home and car. In response to the tragedy, the Denise Amber Lee Act was passed in Florida to enhance 911 operator training. The Denise Amber Lee Foundation, established by her husband Nathan, continues to advocate for improved training and awareness nationwide.
The foundation highlighted communication failures during Denise’s ordeal, with multiple 911 calls made that day by witnesses and family members, but delays prevented timely assistance.
