Summary
Concerns have arisen regarding the humaneness of nitrogen gas executions in Alabama, particularly following reports of convulsions and labored breathing experienced by inmates during the first two executions conducted using this method. Legal representatives for death row inmate Carey Dale Grayson are seeking to block his scheduled execution, citing significant issues with the current execution protocol that have become evident through these troubling accounts.
The nitrogen gas execution method involves replacing breathable air with pure nitrogen, leading to death by asphyxiation. Witnesses reported that during the executions of Kenneth Smith and Alan Miller, inmates exhibited distressing physical reactions, including prolonged convulsions and gasping for breath, which contradicted state assurances of a quick and painless death. Alabama Corrections Commissioner John Q. Hamm defended the method, asserting that the involuntary movements observed were expected outcomes based on prior research. However, experts and legal advocates have raised alarms about the lack of scientific validation for this method, arguing that it may inflict undue suffering on the condemned. As the state prepares for a third nitrogen execution, the legal and ethical implications of this method remain hotly contested, with ongoing court hearings examining its constitutionality and humaneness.
Attorneys move to block Alabama nitrogen execution for Carey Dale Grayson after two inmates convulse
Oct. 8 / The Mirror Us / The focus on Carey Dale Grayson's impending execution and the legal arguments against nitrogen gas execution highlights the urgency of the situation. It succinctly summarizes key issues and reactions, making it a straightforward overview of the ongoing legal battle. “ In Montgomery, Alabama, a federal judge heard testimonies on Tuesday about the nation's first two nitrogen gas executions after lawyers for death row inmate...
“Agony” and “Suffering” as Alabama Experiments With Nitrogen Executions
Oct. 8 / The Intercept / The depth of personal narrative and detailed accounts of Alan Miller's execution offer a haunting glimpse into the realities of nitrogen gas as a method of execution. It raises critical questions about the method's supposed humaneness, providing unique insights that challenge state assurances. “ spent the six months leading up to his execution confined to his cell. Though Miller was never given an explanation for the heightened captivity, which had...
Federal judge in Alabama hears request to block 3rd nitrogen execution
Oct. 8 / Abc News / A federal judge's consideration of the nitrogen execution protocol is well-documented here, featuring firsthand accounts from witnesses that vividly illustrate the troubling physical reactions of inmates. The article effectively balances legal proceedings with emotional impact, making it a compelling resource for understanding the ongoing debate. “ MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- A federal judge heard testimony Tuesday about what happened during the nation’s first two nitrogen gas executions, weighing whether to...