Idaho becomes the first state in America to establish firing squad as its preferred method of execution, with Governor Brad Little signing the controversial bill into law that will take effect in 2025.
Key Insights
- Idaho is now the only state in the U.S. with firing squad as the preferred execution method, while still retaining lethal injection as a backup option.
- The decision follows a botched lethal injection attempt of death row inmate Thomas Eugene Creech in 2023, when medical personnel couldn’t establish an IV line.
- Idaho has nine prisoners on death row, and the law could potentially affect the high-profile case of Bryan Kohberger, accused in the University of Idaho murders, if he receives the death penalty.
- The bill passed with over two-thirds support from Idaho’s Republican-controlled legislature, despite opposition from some lawmakers who called the method “barbaric.”
Idaho Takes Unprecedented Step in Capital Punishment
Governor Brad Little signed legislation on Wednesday making Idaho the only state in the nation to designate firing squads as its preferred method of execution for capital punishment. The new law, which takes effect next year, comes after Idaho had previously authorized firing squad only as a backup method in 2023. This significant shift in protocol arrives shortly after South Carolina executed Brad Sigmon by firing squad, marking the first such execution in the United States in 15 years. Idaho’s decision represents a stark departure from national trends as states continue to grapple with challenges surrounding lethal injection procedures.
Despite having nine inmates currently on death row, Idaho has not carried out an execution in over a dozen years. The state’s Department of Corrections has already begun preparing its facilities for the new execution method, renovating the existing lethal injection chamber to accommodate firing squad protocols. This development occurs against the backdrop of the ongoing murder trial of Bryan Kohberger, accused in the University of Idaho student killings, a case where prosecutors are pursuing the death penalty.
Failed Lethal Injection Attempt Prompts Change
The legislative push for firing squads gained momentum following a failed execution attempt last year involving Thomas Eugene Creech. Medical personnel were unable to establish an intravenous line for lethal injection, forcing authorities to halt the procedure. This incident highlighted the ongoing challenges states face with lethal injection protocols, including drug shortages and questions about humane application. Bill sponsor Representative Bruce Skaug directly cited this botched attempt as justification for changing the state’s primary execution method.
“One thing about this method, it’s pretty sure. It’s not going to be something that gets done part way.” – Sen. Doug Ricks
The legislation passed with substantial support from Idaho’s Republican-controlled legislature, with over two-thirds voting in favor. Prior to this change, Idaho had joined four other states – Utah, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Mississippi – in allowing firing squad as an alternative execution method. However, Idaho now stands alone in making it the primary option, though lethal injection remains available as a backup method if circumstances require it.
Divided Opinions on “Humane” Executions
The legislation has sparked intense debate among lawmakers and citizens alike. Supporters, including Senator Doug Ricks, argue that firing squad executions are both more efficient and more humane than lethal injections that can sometimes go wrong. Ricks has even suggested exploring mechanical or electronic methods that could eliminate human involvement in the process entirely. Meanwhile, opponents from both parties have voiced concerns about the psychological impact of the method on those involved and the state’s image.
“The consequences of a botched firing execution are more graphic, more mentally, psychologically devastating” – Republican Sen. Daniel Foreman
Even among Republicans, there is not unanimous support. Senator Daniel Foreman opposed the bill, citing concerns about the psychological impact of the method. Democratic Senator Melissa Wintrow has called firing squads “barbaric” and harmful to Idaho’s reputation. The Idaho Department of Corrections has already begun physical preparations for implementing the new method, remodeling the execution chamber that previously was set up only for lethal injections. The department must now develop comprehensive protocols for carrying out firing squad executions before any can be scheduled.
National Context and Future Implications
Idaho’s decision comes as states across the country face ongoing challenges with traditional lethal injection protocols. Drug shortages, manufacturer restrictions, and constitutional challenges have complicated many states’ ability to carry out death sentences. While Idaho moves toward firing squads, other states have placed moratoriums on executions or abolished the death penalty altogether. The divergent approaches reflect the complex and divisive nature of capital punishment in America, with Idaho now taking a distinctive position that has drawn both support and criticism nationwide.
“If we’re talking about terror, and we’re talking about barbaric, I think we should remember why this man is on death row in the first place” – Republican Sen. Brian Lenney
With nine prisoners currently on Idaho’s death row and the high-profile Kohberger trial underway, the state’s new execution protocol has immediate practical implications. Governor Little, who previously stated his preference for lethal injection when he approved firing squads as a backup method in 2023, has now endorsed this significant shift in policy. The law establishes Idaho as a unique case study in American capital punishment at a time when the practice continues to face legal challenges and evolving public sentiment.
Sources:
- Idaho becomes first state to prefer death by firing squad for executions
- Firing squad could become Idaho’s main execution method under a bill awaiting governor’s approval
