Roderick Orme, a 64-year-old man of Welsh descent, has spent three decades on Florida’s death row after being convicted of the brutal murder and sexual assault of nurse Lisa Redd in 1992.
Known by some as the “Florida Strangler,” Orme’s case has drawn attention not only for the horrific nature of his crimes but also for the unusual relationship he has developed with a Welsh journalist over the years.
The Crime That Shook Panama City
In March 1992, Orme, under the influence of crack cocaine and alcohol, lured his former girlfriend Lisa Redd to a motel under the pretense of needing help.
Once she arrived, he raped, beat, and strangled the 34-year-old nurse to death.
The attack left an indelible mark on Redd’s family, who have spent decades attending court hearings and sentencing proceedings, seeking justice for her violent death.
Three Sentences, One Fate
Orme’s legal journey has been long and complex.
Initially convicted in 1993 after a 7-5 jury vote, his death sentence was overturned for a new hearing in 2007, where an 11-1 jury again recommended execution.
However, a Supreme Court ruling in 2017 required a unanimous jury for death sentences, leading to a third sentencing hearing.
In March 2022, Orme received his third death sentence and chose not to contest it, stating he wanted to provide some solace to Lisa’s family.
“I’ve carried this thing as long as I can,” Orme said at the time.
“If I can bring any peace or solace to Lisa’s family by giving up my life, I feel that’s the right course of action.”
A Welsh Connection Across the Atlantic
Orme’s Welsh heritage, including distant relatives in Llandudno and a tattoo of a winged Welsh dragon, caught the attention of Wrexham-based cameraman Rhys Williams.
Twenty years ago, Williams read a news article about a “Welshman on death row” and reached out to Orme.
Over the years, they exchanged letters, emails, and phone calls, discussing sports, politics, and even sharing Orme’s artwork.
The new documentary My Friend on Death Row, airing on S4C and BBC iPlayer, captures their first in-person meeting, along with Williams’ conversations with Lisa Redd’s sister, Carol Atwell.
In an emotionally charged encounter, Atwell shared the pain and anger she still feels:
“If they would let me, I would put the needle in him. I will be there when he takes his last breath,” she said.
“I hope he’s miserable when he takes it. I hope he feels a little of the fear she felt. I will never forgive him.”
Facing the Human Side of Justice
During their discussions, Williams defended his correspondence with Orme, explaining that their conversations focused on everyday topics rather than the crime itself.
Atwell, though unable to understand the appeal, acknowledged the unusual dynamic:
“I don’t hate you, I’m not mad at you. I just don’t understand you,” she told Williams.
The documentary also explores broader perspectives on the death penalty in the US, featuring interviews with former executioners and pen pal campaigners, showing how complex and personal these issues remain.
Impact and Consequences
Orme’s prolonged time on death row highlights the drawn-out nature of the American justice system, especially in cases involving capital punishment.
For Lisa Redd’s family, each delay has been a source of continued anguish.
Meanwhile, the documentary brings attention to the ethical and emotional complexities of forming human connections with convicted murderers, sparking debate on morality, forgiveness, and justice.
What’s Next?
Orme remains on death row in Florida, awaiting the final stages of his sentence.
The airing of My Friend on Death Row is expected to provoke discussion about capital punishment, the rights of victims’ families, and the curious bond that can form even under the most extraordinary circumstances.
Summary
Roderick Orme’s case is a chilling reminder of violence, legal complexity, and the enduring trauma it causes families.
The story of a Welsh journalist corresponding with a convicted killer adds an unusual human angle, while the documentary sheds light on American death row procedures and public perceptions of justice.
Bulleted Takeaways
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Roderick Orme, nicknamed the “Florida Strangler,” has been on death row for 30 years.
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He raped, beat, and strangled nurse Lisa Redd in 1992 in Panama City.
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Orme has been sentenced to death three times due to evolving jury and Supreme Court requirements.
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Welsh journalist Rhys Williams has maintained correspondence with Orme for over 20 years.
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My Friend on Death Row explores their meeting and broader perspectives on the death penalty in the US.
