A federal judge has granted a stay of execution to Thomas Creech, an Idaho inmate scheduled to be put to death next week. This comes after Creech survived a botched execution attempt in February, where authorities were unable to establish an IV line despite multiple attempts. Creech’s attorneys argued that another execution would constitute cruel and unusual punishment and violate double jeopardy principles. The judge’s decision grants a reprieve while the court further considers Creech’s appeal, with a supplemental brief due by Friday. This stay effectively suspends preparations for a second execution, as the current death warrant is set to expire on Wednesday.
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Southwest District Health in Idaho has stopped providing Covid-19 vaccines to residents in six counties following a 4-3 vote by its board, despite the pleas of the department’s medical director and protests from residents. This appears to be the first ban of its kind in the US. The ban comes despite the vaccine’s necessity and amidst dropping vaccine rates in the area. A surge in public anti-vaccine sentiments and local protests, along with the argument that people can get vaccinated elsewhere, led to the board’s decision. The board’s move has resulted in a lack of vaccination options for people without housing, the homebound, and residents in long-term care facilities or in the immigration process.
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Southwest District Health in Idaho has ceased providing the public with COVID-19 vaccines following a board ruling. The board decision is unprecedented, marking the first time a US health department has been stopped from administering the vaccines. Motivated by declining vaccine demand in the district, the board’s decision has come despite the medical director’s testimony to the vaccines’ necessity. Many critics of the decision say it’s left vulnerable populations, such as homeless people and long term care facility residents, without vaccination options. Board chairman Kelly Aberasturi intends to bring up the issue at the next board meeting to ensure these vulnerable groups can access the vaccine.
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Idaho’s recent failed attempts at carrying out the execution of serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech have brought to light the inefficiencies and complexities surrounding the death penalty. The inability of the medical team to establish an IV line to administer the fatal drug has raised many questions regarding the competence of the volunteers involved in the process. It is concerning that these individuals, whose backgrounds and qualifications remain largely unknown to the public, were entrusted with such a critical task.
The failed execution attempts have sparked debates about the methods and procedures employed in capital punishment. Many individuals have suggested alternative approaches, such as firing squads or bullets to the head, as more efficient and instantaneous means of carrying out executions.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker