Alabama Executes Kenneth Smith Using Nitrogen Hypoxia
Alabama executed Kenneth Eugene Smith on Thursday. Smith was convicted of the 1996 murder-for-hire slaying of Elizabeth Sennett. The execution took place at the William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore.
This execution was the first time nitrogen hypoxia was used in the United States. Nitrogen hypoxia involves replacing oxygen with nitrogen, leading to death.
In 1996, Charles Sennett Sr. hired Smith and another man, John Forrest Parker, to kill his wife, Elizabeth. Sennett was deeply in debt and wanted to collect insurance money. Parker was executed in 2010 for his role in the crime. Charles Sennett Sr. killed himself as the investigation focused on him.
The Crime and Initial Trial
Prosecutors said Smith received $1,000 for the murder. The victim was found with multiple stab wounds. Smith confessed to being present during the murder but denied his involvement in the killing. He was convicted and sentenced to death. However, the conviction was overturned on appeal.
Retrial and Second Death Sentence
Smith was retried and again convicted in 2003. This time, he was sentenced to life in prison without parole. However, the judge overrode the jury’s recommendation and imposed the death penalty. This practice, known as judicial override, has since been outlawed.
Previous Execution Attempt
Alabama previously attempted to execute Smith in 2022 by lethal injection. However, the execution was called off because officials couldn’t properly insert the IV line.
Nitrogen Hypoxia
Smith’s lawyers argued against the use of nitrogen hypoxia, claiming it was a cruel and unusual punishment. They sought to block the execution, but their appeals were denied by the courts. In addition, they argued that the method was experimental and risked causing Smith unnecessary suffering.
Final Words
According to witnesses, Smith made a statement before the execution. He said, “Tonight Alabama caused humanity to take a step backwards.” He also stated, “I am leaving with love, peace and light.”
Controversy and Concerns
The use of nitrogen hypoxia has generated considerable controversy. Opponents argue that the method is untested and potentially inhumane. Supporters, however, claim it is a more humane alternative to lethal injection. Meanwhile, legal challenges to the method continue to be filed across the country.
The United Nations human rights experts expressed alarm. They urged the U.S. to halt the execution. They cited concerns about the new and untested method. However, the execution proceeded as scheduled.
Looking Ahead
The execution of Kenneth Smith marks a significant moment in the debate over capital punishment in the United States. It is likely to spur further discussion and legal challenges regarding the use of nitrogen hypoxia and other execution methods.
Source: bbc.com
