Idaho Becomes First U.S. State to Set Firing Squad as Preferred Execution Method
Idaho Governor Brad Little has officially signed a bill making the firing squad the preferred method of execution for capital punishment in the state, a measure that will take effect in 2024.
Legislative Context
The enactment of this legislation comes shortly after the execution of Brad Sigmon in South Carolina, who was put to death via firing squad for a double homicide committed in 2001. This marked the first use of this execution method in the U.S. in 15 years.
In Idaho, there are currently nine inmates on death row, but executions have not been conducted in the state for over a decade.
Background of the Legislation
The state’s decision to prioritize execution by firing squad was largely influenced by past issues with lethal injection protocols. Last year, Idaho was unable to carry out the execution of Thomas Eugene Creech when medical personnel could not successfully establish an IV line after an hour of attempts.
Sixteen GOP lawmakers supported the bill, which also retains lethal injection as an alternative method of execution.
Implications for Current and Future Cases
With the new law, eight death row inmates will be directly affected, including Bryan Kohberger, who is accused of the University of Idaho murders. Prosecutors have indicated they will seek the death penalty if he is found guilty.
Kohberger’s trial is scheduled for later this year, where he faces charges including four counts of first-degree murder and one of felony burglary.
Public and Expert Opinions
Supporters of the new law, such as Rep. Bruce Skaug, advocate for the firing squad, citing it as a reliable alternative following the complications associated with lethal injections. Experts have opined that firing squads represent a more straightforward and efficient means of carrying out capital punishment.
