[JURIST] The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has recommend Gov. Rick Perry grant a reprieve of the execution of Frances Newton, scheduled later Wednesday, to further examine defense claims that she is innocent. With a 5-1 vote, the board took the rare step of recommending a stay of the execution, which Parry can choose to delay for up to 30 days. Newton’s attorneys have disputed her conviction for the 1987 murder of her husband and two children, citing possible mistakes made in analysis of ballistics evidence. If the stay is not granted, Newton would be the first black woman executed in Texas. The Houston Chronicle has more.