Florida Gives James Ford Execution Date of February 13, 2025

James Ford, Florida

Updated: Thursday, January 30, 2025

James Ford is scheduled to be executed at 6 pm local time on Thursday, February 13, 2025, inside the execution chamber at the Florida State Penitentiary near Raiford, Florida.  Sixty-four-year-old James is convicted of murdering 25-year-old Greg Malnory and his wife 26-year-old Kimberly Malnory on April 6, 1997, in Charlotte County, Florida.  For the last 25 years, James resided on Florida’s death row.

James Ford and Greg Malnory both worked at the South Florida Sod Farm in Charlotte County.  Greg and Kimberly arranged with Ford to go fishing on April 6, 1997.  They brought their 22-month-old daughter, Maranda with them.  After they arrived at the farm, Ford attacked them.  Ford attacked Greg first, shooting him in the head.  Evidence suggests that Greg was only injured by the gunshot wound.  He staggered out into a field and was followed by Ford.  Ford proceeded to attack Greg, striking him at least seven times with an axe or a similar weapon.  After beating him, Ford slit his throat, killing him.

While Ford was attacking Greg, Kimberly secured Maranda in her baby seat and attempted to flee but was unsuccessful.  Ford attacked Kimberly, raping her before inserting the gun in her mouth and shooting her, killing her.  Defensive injuries suggest Kimberly fought back.

On the afternoon of April 7, 1997, Greg and Kimberly’s bodies were discovered by other workers.  Maranda was found alive after being alone for over 18 hours.  She was taken to a hospital and treated for mosquito bites over nearly her entire body and dehydration.  Kimberly’s blood was found on the front and back of her clothing.

Ford was quickly identified as a person of interest, as he was seen in the area before the murders and covered in blood later that day.  He also had scratches on his body.  Further investigation recovered a multitude of DNA evidence that linked Ford to the murders and rape.

Ford was convicted and sentenced to death for the murders.  He also received additional prison time for other charges in connection with the murder.

Pray for the family of Greg and Kimberly Malnory.  Pray for Maranda.  Please pray for strength for the family of James Ford.  Please pray that if James is innocent, lacks the competency to be executed, or should not be executed for any other reason, that evidence will be presented before his execution.  Pray that James may find peace through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.