Attorneys want moratorium, probe after execution halted

Published April 28, 2022 1:29 PM

By TRAVIS LOLLER
Associated Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — After an undisclosed “oversight” forced Tennessee to abruptly cancel the execution of Oscar Smith last week, his attorneys are asking for a moratorium on executions and a review of the state’s execution protocols. Federal public defenders in Nashville sent a letter to Gov. Bill Lee on Thursday requesting a halt to executions to allow an independent review of what went wrong. Lee has not explained why the execution was called off. He originally said he would do so this week and now says details will be released Monday. Federal Public Defender Kelley Henry says the secrecy and delay undermines faith in the state’s ability to carry out an impartial investigation.

Article Topic Follows: AP National News

Jump to comments ↓

Associated Press

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KION 46 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.