(Newser)
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The execution of Georgia inmate Troy Davis late last night was one of the most high-profile the US has seen in years and has sparked calls for a rethink of the death penalty. More than 500 people gathered outside the prison as Davis was executed; protests occurred as far away as Paris, the AP reports. "Everyone who looks a little bit at the case knows that there is too much doubt to execute him,"an Amnesty International official said. More than a million people signed an online petition seeking clemency for Davis, who was convicted of shooting an off-duty cop in 1989.
Scores of protesters rallied outside the White House ahead of the execution, urging President Obama to get involved. More than a dozen of them were arrested for disobeying police orders. Many famous names joined the call for clemency, including conservative figures like former FBI Director William Sessions. Celebrity supporters voiced their disappointment and anger after the execution. "I love my country but tonight we can only be stunned, saddened, disgusted, and deeply ashamed," tweeted Mia Farrow, while Alec Baldwin lashed out at "all you blood-thirsty right wing trash out there."
