By Jonathan Allen
Alabama is set to carry out the execution of Alan Miller, a convicted murderer, on Thursday using nitrogen asphyxiation. This method was first introduced by the state in January and Kenneth Smith was the first to be executed using this method.
Miller, aged 65, was found guilty of the 1999 murders of three men in a shooting incident at two offices in Pelham, Alabama, including two of his co-workers.
Despite claims by the state that nitrogen asphyxiation is the most painless method of execution, the previous execution of Kenneth Smith did not go as smoothly as expected. Witnesses reported seeing Smith heaving and convulsing for several minutes before losing consciousness.
The Biden administration has expressed concerns over the new method, with U.N. human rights officials also condemning it as potentially amounting to torture or cruel and inhuman treatment.
Miller, following Smith's execution, filed a lawsuit against Alabama to ensure the proper fitting and testing of the mask used in the asphyxiation process to prevent any oxygen leakage that could prolong his death or cause brain damage.
His execution is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, Alabama. The state has not disclosed any changes made to its gassing protocol.
Alabama has offered to assist other states in adopting nitrogen asphyxiation as an alternative method for executions, particularly for those facing challenges in sourcing lethal injection drugs.
Advocacy groups against capital punishment have shifted their focus to nitrogen suppliers and mask manufacturers, urging them to refrain from providing equipment for executions.
Stephanie Boucher, a spokesperson for Allegro's parent company Walter Surface Technologies, declined to comment on the use of their masks in executions. Onex Corp, a Canadian private equity firm with a majority stake in Walter Surface, did not respond to requests for comment.
Analysis:
The use of nitrogen asphyxiation as a method of execution in Alabama has sparked controversy and raised concerns over its effectiveness and ethical implications. The botched execution of Kenneth Smith has drawn criticism from both the Biden administration and U.N. human rights officials.
As an investor, it is important to consider the potential impact of these developments on the companies involved in supplying equipment for executions, such as Allegro's parent company Walter Surface Technologies and its majority stakeholder Onex Corp. The scrutiny from advocacy groups and the public could have reputational and financial consequences for these entities.
Furthermore, the broader debate surrounding capital punishment and the methods used for executions underscores the need for investors to assess the social and ethical implications of their investments. Understanding the risks associated with companies involved in controversial practices is essential for making informed investment decisions.