British Woman to Marry Texas Death Row Inmate Days Before Execution in Ceremony Under Strict No-Contact Rules

A British woman will marry a death row inmate in Texas on April 16, even though his execution date is just weeks away.

Tiana Krasniqi, 31, is set to wed her fiancé James Broadnax in a brief prison ceremony lasting about 20 minutes. The pair will not be allowed physical contact during the wedding because of strict prison rules.

“Texas has a very strict rule about no contact with death row inmates,” Krasniqi said.

Speaking about the wedding, she said, “It’s a very quick ceremony. You have an officiant, you say your vows and that’s it and then its over.”

Broadnax has been on death row since 2008. He was convicted of killing Stephen Swan and Matthew Butler, and his execution is scheduled for April 30, despite ongoing appeals.

The couple first connected in October 2024, Krasniqi was studying for a master’s degree in international human rights law at the time and her research focused on racial bias in Texas death penalty cases.

“I contacted him. I was looking at cases that fell within that category of racial disparity within the trial court, and James was the person that I had picked,” Krasniqi told ITV’s This Morning.

Their relationship developed over time, and Krasniqi said that it was never planned. “We both realized it was more than a study,” she added.

Broadnax later proposed during a prison visit. Krasniqi said the moment was simple but meaningful. “He spoke to me about it and he pretty much confessed everything about his feelings...and yeah, he asked.”

Broadnax's case has drawn attention in the United States for years. Critics have raised concerns about jury selection, noting that 11 jurors were white and only one was Black, while seven potential Black jurors were removed during selection.

Broadnax admitted to the killings at the time, but Krasniqi said the confession came while he was under the influence of PCP. His cousin, Demarius Cummings, has since claimed responsibility for the murders and is serving life sentence.

Prosecutors also cited Broadnax’s rap lyrics during the trial, arguing they indicated future threats.

Support for Broadnax has come from public figures. Rappers Young Tug, T.I., and Travis Scott filed briefs with the U.S. Supreme Court in March, asking for a review of his case.

Despite this, his latest appeal has been denied, and the execution is still scheduled to proceed. Krasniqi continues to hope for last-minute changes.