South Carolina Firing Squad Execution of Mikal Mahdi Criticized as Botched
Execution of Mikal Mahdi led to extreme pain as bullets missed their target in a controversial firing squad execution in South Carolina, prompting legal challenges.
The apparent errors in how the execution was carried out are a major problem, he asserted.
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The South Carolina department of corrections (SCDC) and the state’s attorney general have been contacted for comment.
Revealed: Autopsy suggests South Carolina botched firing squad execution
The Guardian·7d·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.Leans LeftThis outlet slightly leans left.The apparent errors in how the execution was carried out are a major problem, he asserted.
Lawyers for man executed by firing squad in South Carolina say bullets mostly missed his heart
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Summary
A pathologist's report reveals that Mikal Mahdi suffered severe pain during his firing squad execution in South Carolina, as bullets missed the intended target area on his heart. Witnesses reported cries of agony, and experts suggest the procedure was poorly executed, leading to a prolonged death. The incident has raised concerns over the training of prison staff and the effectiveness of firing squads as humane methods of execution, given the state’s recent revival of capital punishment. Mahdi's attorneys submitted evidence to the South Carolina Supreme Court, emphasizing the need for scrutiny in execution protocols.
Perspectives
Mikal Mahdi's recent execution by firing squad resulted in a botched procedure, leaving him alive and conscious for a prolonged period due to bullets missing their intended target, which caused severe physical suffering and raises questions about the execution protocol's reliability.
Witness accounts and autopsy findings indicate Mahdi suffered extreme pain during the execution, with discrepancies in reported bullet wounds and placement of the target suggesting significant negligence by the execution team.
Lack of proper documentation and investigation into the execution process, including insufficient autopsy procedures, highlights serious concerns about the oversight and training of prison staff involved in carrying out executions.