The United States is set to conduct its first execution by firing squad in 15 years in South Carolina on Friday, amidst significant public debate and ethical concerns. The execution of Brad Sigmon, a 67-year-old inmate, will proceed despite widespread apprehension about the method's safety and perceived cruelty. Sigmon's decision to face the firing squad stems from his fear that lethal injection might result in a "prolonged death."
Sigmon, convicted of murder, has spent years on death row. His choice for execution method highlights ongoing issues with lethal injections, which have been criticized for potentially causing prolonged suffering. According to a South Carolina judge, the firing squad method "constitutes torture" and leaves the person "likely to be conscious for a minimum of 10 seconds after impact."
Sigmon will be shot by three employees of the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC). Witnesses present in the room will see his profile, but neither the rifles nor the firing portal will be visible to them. The SCDC protocols involve strapping Sigmon with metal restraints to a chair in the "death chamber" and placing a hood over his head. An "aim point" is marked over his heart, with three staffers positioned 15 feet away through a wall opening. If Sigmon shows vital signs 10 minutes after the initial shots, staff are instructed to fire again, as outlined in a 2022 court case.
Sigmon's transformation and remorse during his time in prison have been acknowledged by his lawyer, Gerald "Bo" King. King described Sigmon as a "peaceful, trusted presence on death row," who has become an informal chaplain to fellow inmates. Despite his declining health, King insists that Sigmon poses no threat.
“There is no justice here. Everything about this barbaric, state-sanctioned atrocity – from the choice to the method itself – is abjectly cruel.” – King
Since his incarceration, Sigmon has dedicated himself to his Christian faith, engaging daily in prayer, repentance, and redemption efforts.
“When Brad went to prison, he rededicated himself to his Christian faith. He has devoted every day since to prayer, repentance, and the work of redemption.” – Gerald “Bo” King
The execution's controversy is heightened by South Carolina's shield law, which conceals the identity of lethal injection drug suppliers. Critics argue this lack of transparency violates ethical standards. Sigmon's legal team contended that the state must reveal details regarding the drugs' creation and reliability. The distressing past cases of lethal injections in the state further fuel these arguments. The last three men executed using pentobarbital took over 20 minutes to die, with one displaying symptoms associated with "pulmonary edema," likened to drowning or suffocation.
“an excruciating condition known as pulmonary edema” – Autopsy records
No governor in South Carolina's modern death penalty era has granted clemency to individuals facing execution. Despite ongoing debates over execution methods and their morality, Rebecca Armstrong, one of Sigmon's victims' family members, asserted that justice must be served.
“he should answer for what he’s done” – Rebecca Armstrong