Could Louisiana soon resume death row executions?

Louisiana hasn’t carried out a death row execution since 2010, but between a new conservative governor who is in favor of capital punishment and other states implementing alternative methods to lethal injections, the Deep South state could soon look at ways to resume.

During a news conference Wednesday, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry hinted at a willingness to explore expanding execution methods, saying he is committed to upholding “contractual obligations” between the state and victims’ families after a death sentence has been handed down in court.

“I have committed myself to those (victims’) families because I have sat in front of those families. I have listened to those families from all over the state,” Landry said. “They deserve their day of justice. That is what the jury has granted them.”

“I and the Legislature… are going to fulfill our commitments,” he added.

Around 60 people currently sit on Louisiana’s death row, according to the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections. However amid legal battles and a lethal injection drug shortage, executions in the state have stalled, with none currently scheduled.

Over the past few years, a handful of states have sought to reinstate other execution methods, such as firing squads.

Most recently Alabama carried out the nation’s first execution using nitrogen gas. When that state put Kenneth Eugene Smith, a convicted murderer, to death on Jan. 25, it was also the first time a new execution method had been used in the United States since lethal injection, now the most common one, was introduced in 1982.

“States around us are finding ways and methods in order to execute those who have been tried, and convicted, and sentenced to death,” Landry said.

The idea of using of nitrogen gas for executions is gaining traction elsewhere in the country. The state of Oklahoma already has a law authorizing the use of nitrogen gas, as does Missouri, and some others including Nebraska have introduced measures this year to add it as an option.

Last year there were 24 executions carried out in five states, according to the Washington, D.C.-based Death Penalty Information Center. Twenty-nine states have either abolished the death penalty or paused executions.

Last year nearly every death row inmate in Louisiana asked for clemency — the commutation of a death sentence to life in prison — from then-Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat who favored eliminating capital punishment. The handful of applicants who were granted a hearing were denied clemency.

During Wednesday’s news conference, Landry said he still plans to call a special legislative session in February during which lawmakers will focus on addressing crime. Capital punishment could also on the table.

Landry said he would be meeting with legislative leaders in the afternoon to discuss what would be on the special session’s agenda.

SportsPlus

Crime

UPDATE: Arrest made in deputy-involved shooting

Local News

Louisiana makes progress on teacher shortages but truancy issues remain

Local News

State Supreme Court upholds state authority to clear homeless encampments

life

On Campus: SW La. students recognized for achievements

McNeese Sports

Cowboys win slugfest, alone in first

McNeese Sports

Cowgirls fall at home

Local News

Environmental stewards: SW La. Master Naturalists promote appreciation for natural world

Crime

BREAKING: Jeff Davis Sheriff’s deputy hospitalized after shooting

Jim Beam

Jim Beam column:Vaccines protect our children

Local News

The Informer: Treasure trove of historic photos rediscovered — and we want to share them with y’all

Crime

1/10: Calcasieu Parish Sheriff announces arrest list

Crime

Nine overdoes in Jennings reported in one week

Local News

Report: Louisiana struggles with population exodus

life

Mardi Gras art symbolic of rebirth

life

SW La. nightlife calendar: There’s always something to do

Local News

Judge sentences Donald Trump in hush money case but declines to impose any punishment

Crime

Kinder mother arrested for abuse after striking child with plastic utensil, making the child wear a trash bag

life

McNeese State student exhibition shows off creative outlet for young artists

Local News

Fleming tells Chamber about school, unclaimed cash websites

Crime

Lt. Laura Janise is the new assistant police chief for Welsh

McNeese Sports

Cowboys, Colonels met in early showdown

McNeese Sports

Cowgirls win, ready for Nicholls

Local News

Talitha Pitre: Education is helping students become best version of themselves

McNeese Sports

Davey commits to UTEP