Alabama Executes Kenneth Eugene Smith Using Nitrogen Hypoxia
Alabama executed Kenneth Eugene Smith on Thursday, January 25, 2024. He was convicted of the 1988 murder-for-hire of Elizabeth Sennett. This execution marks the first time a new method, nitrogen hypoxia, has been used in the United States. The execution took place at the William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, Alabama.
The Crime
Kenneth Smith was one of two men convicted in the murder of Elizabeth Sennett. Her husband, Charles Sennett Sr., hired the men to kill his wife. He was deeply in debt and wanted to collect insurance money. Charles Sennett Sr. committed suicide a week after the murder when he became a suspect.
Previous Execution Attempt
Smith was previously scheduled to be executed in November 2022. However, the execution was halted because officials couldn’t properly place the IV lines. This led to a lawsuit and further legal challenges.
Nitrogen Hypoxia
Nitrogen hypoxia involves replacing oxygen with nitrogen. This causes the inmate to die from lack of oxygen. Alabama officials said this method would be painless. Opponents argued it was experimental and could cause unnecessary suffering.
Execution Details
Smith was pronounced dead at 8:25 p.m. local time. According to witnesses, he appeared conscious for several minutes after the nitrogen was administered. He reportedly writhed and gasped for air. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall stated that the execution was carried out according to plan.
Legal Challenges
Smith’s lawyers made several appeals to halt the execution. They argued that nitrogen hypoxia was unconstitutional. They also argued that a second execution attempt was cruel and unusual punishment. The Supreme Court rejected his appeals.
Reactions
The execution has sparked widespread debate. Supporters of capital punishment believe justice was served. Opponents argue that it was a cruel and unusual punishment. Many have expressed concerns about the use of a new and untested method.
Looking Ahead
The execution of Kenneth Smith will likely lead to further legal challenges and debates about capital punishment. The use of nitrogen hypoxia could also influence other states considering alternative execution methods. The case raises important questions about the ethics and humanity of the death penalty in the United States. Meanwhile, the family of Elizabeth Sennett hopes for closure after decades of legal battles.
Source: bbc.com
