Lawmaker Unveils Controversial Plan for Firing Squad Executions

A state lawmaker is advocating for a shift in Arizona’s execution method, calling the current lethal injection system inhumane. Representative Alexander Kolodin’s proposal aims to place the option of a firing squad on the 2026 ballot for voter consideration.

Kolodin’s push follows a report from a death penalty commissioner appointed by Governor Katie Hobbs. Retired magistrate David Duncan indicated that there is “no humane way” to carry out lethal injections and suggested the firing squad as a more humane alternative.

The Scottsdale Republican emphasizes his belief in the death penalty, but acknowledges significant flaws in the current execution process, approved by voters in 1992. “Lethal injection just seems to be incredibly complicated, leading to delays and issues,” he stated.

Kolodin noted that even the preparation for lethal injections poses challenges. The state has struggled to acquire lethal chemicals in recent years. For instance, in 2015, Arizona attempted to import sodium thiopental from India after domestic manufacturers refused to supply it, despite federal warnings against such actions.

The state now utilizes a different drug for executions, but complications remain, including a constrained shelf life and the need for compounding.

Duncan’s report was prompted by a series of problematic executions in Arizona, where witnesses reported instances of pain and difficulty in administering the lethal injection due to issues with intravenous lines.

In light of this, Attorney General Kris Mayes announced that no execution warrants would be pursued until the report’s analysis was complete. Duncan’s recommendation to consider firing squads as a viable option met with controversy, leading to his dismissal by Governor Hobbs.

Kolodin argues that the firing squad has a history of being humane and efficient. “We actually know what’s always humane,” he commented, expressing surprise at Hobbs’ decision to terminate Duncan over the suggestion.

According to Kolodin, adopting this method could streamline the often protracted legal challenges associated with death penalty cases. “We would not have all these legal hang-ups,” he asserted.

Hobbs has not publicly shared her views on the death penalty or the method of execution, which are legally mandated in the Arizona Constitution and require voter approval for any changes.

Mayes, however, stands by the current lethal injection protocol, indicating that revisions have been made based on feedback from the Department of Corrections. The Attorney General remains convinced of the capacity to administer lethal injections humanely.

Should the Arizona Supreme Court approve her request, the first execution under the existing protocol could take place on March 18, involving inmate Aaron Gunches, who was sentenced for the 2022 murder of Ted Price.

Historically, Arizona transitioned from hanging to lethal gas in 1934, with voters later opting for lethal injection due to a highly publicized botched execution in 1992.

Kolodin’s proposal seeks to amend the current law further, recommending the firing squad as the sole method of execution. Several states, including Mississippi and Utah, already incorporate firing squads as a method of execution, particularly in instances where lethal injection drugs are unavailable.

However, Kolodin’s measure does not include any conditional clauses regarding drug availability, marking a significant shift in the conversation surrounding capital punishment in Arizona.