Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry announced Monday that the state will begin using nitrogen gas as an execution method, following Alabama’s implementation of the practice last year. Landry stated that resuming executions was necessary to honor commitments made to victims’ families.
The first execution under this new method was initially scheduled for Larry Roy, a death row inmate from Rapides Parish, on March 19.
However, a judge recalled the warrant to address legal questions. Despite this delay, officials believe the execution will still occur sometime in March, provided there are no legal stays issued by state or federal courts. Solicitor General Liz Murrill emphasized that several Louisiana inmates have exhausted their appeals, making them eligible for execution.
Murrill also indicated that executions could happen in rapid succession, as four additional inmates—two from Rapides Parish, one from DeSoto Parish, and one from St. Tammany Parish—have also exhausted their state and federal appellate rights.
She noted that Alabama has already used nitrogen gas for multiple executions and does not anticipate significant legal challenges in Louisiana, though death penalty cases often involve extensive litigation. Inmates may still seek relief through state courts, the U.S. Supreme Court, or clemency boards.
Before an execution can take place, a district judge in the inmate’s parish of conviction must sign a warrant. If all legal obstacles are cleared, Louisiana will proceed with executions under the new nitrogen hypoxia method. The decision marks a significant shift in the state’s capital punishment procedures, setting the stage for potential court battles ahead.
