Things to know about Idaho’s botched execution of serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech

Thomas Eugene Creech is a 73-year-old serial killer who has been in prison for half a century. On Wednesday, he was scheduled to be executed by lethal injection in an Idaho execution chamber. However, the medical team was unable to find a vein through which they could end his life after eight attempts. The warden eventually called off the execution and Creech was returned to his cell.

The botched execution is just one of many difficulties that states have had carrying out lethal injections. In recent years, there have been numerous cases where executions have gone awry, often due to technical issues or medical errors. Some critics argue that the use of lethal injection as a method of execution is inherently flawed and should be abolished. Others argue that it is a humane alternative to other methods of execution, such as the gas chamber or hanging.

It is worth noting that Idaho has a history of carrying out executions using lethal injection. In 2017, the state executed Russell Steven Travis, who was convicted of murdering two children and their grandmother. The execution took place without any major issues. However, in recent years, there have been calls for reforms to the state's execution process, including increased transparency and oversight.

Overall, the botched execution of Thomas Eugene Creech is just one example of the challenges that states face when carrying out lethal injections. While some argue that the use of lethal injection is a humane alternative to other methods of execution, others question its effectiveness and safety. Ultimately, it is up to each state to decide how they will carry out executions and whether they will continue to use lethal injection as a method of punishment.