Alabama Executes Kenneth Smith Using Nitrogen Gas, Raising Concerns About Cruelty
In a groundbreaking execution, Alabama put Kenneth Smith to death using nitrogen gas, a method that experts argue could cause excessive pain and even torture. Smith, who was sentenced to death for his involvement in a 1988 murder-for-hire case, had previously survived the state’s attempt to execute him by lethal injection in 2022. Despite his last-minute appeal being denied by the US Supreme Court, the execution proceeded on Thursday night.
The execution took place in Atmore, Alabama, and was carried out using nitrogen gas. Alabama Department of Corrections Commissioner John Hamm confirmed that nitrogen was administered for approximately 15 minutes before Smith’s time of death was announced at 8:25 p.m. local time.
Prior to his execution, Smith made a lengthy statement expressing his disappointment with Alabama’s use of nitrogen gas. He stated, “Tonight Alabama caused humanity to take a step backward,” and thanked those who supported him, leaving with “love, peace, and light.” Witnesses from the media reported that Smith appeared conscious during the initial stages of the execution and experienced shaking and writhing for several minutes before his breath began slowing down.
When questioned about Smith’s movements during the execution, Commissioner Hamm explained that they were expected side effects of nitrogen hypoxia. He mentioned involuntary movements and agonal breathing, which is commonly seen in people nearing death. However, Smith’s spiritual advisor, Reverend Jeff Hood, described the execution in more graphic terms, stating that it was “the most horrible thing” he had ever witnessed.
Despite the concerns raised by Smith’s advocates and critics of the state, his execution proceeded as planned. The use of nitrogen gas for executions is a novel method that has only been approved by three states: Alabama, Oklahoma, and Mississippi. Alabama adopted this method in 2018, claiming it to be the most humane form of execution. However, critics argue that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support this claim.
The secrecy surrounding the protocol for nitrogen gas executions has raised further concerns. The state’s published protocol contains redactions that experts believe hide crucial details from public scrutiny. Alabama officials have defended these redactions, stating that they are necessary for security reasons. Nevertheless, Smith’s legal team expressed their deep sadness over his death and highlighted his personal growth and positive contributions during his time in prison.
The execution of Kenneth Smith has reignited the debate surrounding the constitutionality and humaneness of capital punishment. Opponents argue that the use of nitrogen gas raises serious ethical concerns and risks subjecting inmates to unnecessary suffering. However, those who support the death penalty believe that Smith’s execution delivered justice for the victim, Elizabeth Sennett. Her sons expressed relief that Smith’s sentence had been carried out and emphasized their forgiveness towards him.
With the emergence of nitrogen gas as a method of execution, the debate surrounding capital punishment in the United States continues to evolve. As new methods are introduced, it becomes crucial to address the potential for cruelty and ensure that executions are carried out in a manner consistent with constitutional protections. The execution of Kenneth Smith serves as a stark reminder of the complex and contentious nature of the death penalty in America.
