Alabama executed convicted killer Kenneth Smith using Nitrogen gas, marking a first in capital punishment. It provides the state authorities with an alternative to executions and attracts attention, some of which are favorable while others negatively-minded.

A MURDER-FOR-HIRE SCHEME: THE DARK PAST OF KENNETH SMITH

Kenneth Smith, was sentenced to death for the murder-for-hire of Elizabeth Sennet. The execution commenced at 7:56 p.m. and ended at about 8,25 pm as Smith made his final speech through a mask.

THE PROCESS OF EXECUTION – NITROGEN GAS METHOD

The procedure of execution included strapping Smith to the gurney in the lethal chamber. He was put on a particularly made mask over his face and given nitrogen gas for a set timeframe. This new type of execution procedure caused concerns and drew attention not only within the country but also internationally.

KENNETH SMITH’S OTHER BRUSH WITH EXECUTION – A TROUBLED PAST

In November 2022, Smith had survived a botched execution attempt that left him with PTSD. Even with this provision, the state pursued nitrogen gas method. This was seen as both unproven and a cause of torturous death.

NITROGEN GAS VS. LETHAL INJECTION – A CHANGE IN EXECUTION TECHNIQUES

Due to drug shortages and concerns over midazolam use in executions, the Alabama Legislature signed nitrogen executions into law in 2018. Moreover, proponents assert that nitrogen gas, which induces instant unconsciousness, provides a more humane alternative.

ATTENTION WORLD – KENNETH SMITH’S EXECUTION IS WRONG

Furthermore, Alabama took center stage as Kenneth Smith became the first person to be put to death by nitrogen gas. Out of the three liberal justices, Justice Sonia Sotomayor criticised this method of Execution. She pointed out that Alabama had selected Smith to be a ‘guinea pig’ for an untested mechanism of execution. The entire world watched this unprecedented situation carefully, being wary of the ethical implications associated with it.

THE LAST MOMENTS OF KENNETH SMITH — A CONTROVERSIAL EXECUTION

Smith’s final two minutes convulsing on the gurney, with heavy breathing concentrated everyone’s attention to nitrogen hypoxia and what its side effects could be. Critics claim that this approach, despite being unproved, was implemented as an element of the state’s struggle to find a working alternative for traditional execution methods.

PAST AND PRESENT CONVERGE – SMITH AS A PART OF THE HOMICIDE FOR MONEY CONTRACT

Reflecting on the 1980s murder-for-hire case that had led to death of Elizabeth Sennett, Smith’ s execution brought resolution to Michael Sennett (Elizabeth’ son) who forgave Smith and others involved in this criminal activity. The complexities of the crime and its repercussions show how this traumatizes those involved.

LEGAL PROBLEMS AND MORAL ISSUES – DENIED APPEALS, VOICED DISSENT

Five years ago, the U.S Supreme Court turned down appeals from Smith who stated that such a method violated his Eighth Amendment protections against cruel and unusual punishment. In the same breath, Justice Sotomayor pointed out that the world was watching as Alabama entered uncharted territory with this approach.

CONTROVERSIAL LEGACY – THE EXECUTION OF KENNETH SMITH SPARKS MORAL DEBATE

Following the execution of Kenneth Smith, the use of nitrogen gas as a method for capital punishment raised moral implications. Both supporters and skeptics grapple with broader questions regarding the morality of the death sentence. They also ponder whether Alabama’s attempt could set a precedent for a new form of execution.

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