Idaho was unable to execute one of the longest-serving death row inmates in the U.S. due to the failure to establish an IV line. The execution, which would have been the state's first instance of capital punishment in 12 years, will need to be renewed for a later attempt.
Key Points
Medical personnel failed to establish an IV line for the lethal injection after trying for an hour.
The U.S. Supreme Court denied motions to block the execution, but it failed to proceed.
Idaho's Governor signed legislation allowing a firing squad as an alternative method of execution.
Pros
The failed execution brings attention to issues surrounding the death penalty and methods of execution.
Cons
The failure to carry out the execution prolongs the legal process and emotional strain on the victim's families.