Louisiana executed Jessie Hoffman Jr. using nitrogen gas for his role in a murder committed decades prior, marking the state's first execution using this method after a 15-year hiatus. The execution was reported to be flawless, but a witness described the inmate convulsing. Hoffman, who was convicted of murdering Mary Elliott, maintained his innocence during his time in prison. His lawyers argued the procedure was unconstitutional and violated his religious rights, but the state defended it as painless. The execution underscores Louisiana's commitment to provide justice to victims' families.
"It was the fifth time nitrogen gas was used in the U.S., with Louisiana completing its first execution by this method after a 15-year hiatus."
"Hoffman's lawyers argued the nitrogen gas procedure violates the Eighth Amendment, claiming it constitutes cruel and unusual punishment and infringes on his freedom of religious practice."
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