What's happened
Anthony Boyd, 54, was executed in Alabama using nitrogen gas, despite his protests and legal challenges. Boyd maintained his innocence and requested a firing squad, but the court upheld the nitrogen method, which critics say is cruel. His execution took nearly 40 minutes, raising human rights concerns.
What's behind the headline?
The use of nitrogen gas in Boyd's execution exemplifies the contentious shift in US capital punishment practices. Critics argue that nitrogen gas can cause prolonged suffering, as Boyd spasmed for over 20 minutes, which may violate the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment. The Supreme Court's rejection of Boyd's plea for a firing squad underscores the legal and ethical dilemmas surrounding execution methods. This case also underscores broader issues: the persistent racial and procedural biases in death penalty cases, especially in Alabama, and the increasing reliance on controversial methods amid drug shortages. The prolonged execution process may fuel further legal challenges and international criticism, potentially impacting the US's human rights reputation.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports that Boyd's execution took nearly 40 minutes, with critics like Sonia Sotomayor describing nitrogen gas as 'torturous suffocation.' The Independent highlights Boyd's plea for a firing squad, which was denied, and notes Alabama's recent use of nitrogen gas since 2024. Both sources emphasize the controversy over execution methods and the legal battles surrounding Boyd's case, illustrating the ongoing debate over humane capital punishment in the US.
How we got here
Boyd was sentenced to death in 1995 for the murder of Gregory Huguley, based solely on witness testimony. Alabama has used nitrogen gas for executions since January 2024, replacing lethal injection due to drug shortages and complications. Boyd's case highlights ongoing debates over execution methods and fairness in capital punishment.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why Is the US Using Nitrogen Gas for Executions Now?
The recent use of nitrogen gas in US executions has sparked widespread debate. As states seek alternative methods amid drug shortages and legal challenges, nitrogen gas has emerged as a controversial option. But why is this method being adopted now, and what are the implications? Below, we explore the reasons behind this shift, the ethical debates, and what it means for justice and human rights.
More on these topics