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Idaho Serial Killer Granted Stay of Execution
Idaho serial killer Thomas Creech receives a stay of execution following a botched lethal injection earlier this year.
English
United States
JusticeHuman Rights ViolationsUs PoliticsCrimeLawDeath PenaltyExecution
Idaho Department Of CorrectionAda County Prosecutor’s OfficeUs District Court For The District Of IdahoIdaho Supreme CourtCnn
Thomas CreechDavid Dale JensenJosh TewaltG. Murray Snow
- How rare are executions in Idaho?
- Idaho has carried out only three executions since 1976, making Creech's case particularly notable due to the botched execution and subsequent legal challenges. The state's Department of Correction has suspended preparations for a second execution.
- What crimes was Thomas Creech convicted of?
- Creech was sentenced to death in 1982 for the murder of inmate David Dale Jensen while serving four life sentences. Authorities say he has confessed to killing as many as 40 people.
- Why was Thomas Creech granted a stay of execution?
- Thomas Creech, a 74-year-old Idaho serial killer, was granted a stay of execution just one week before his scheduled death. This follows a botched execution in February where authorities were unable to establish an IV line.
- What was the judge's reasoning for granting the stay?
- Judge G. Murray Snow granted the stay to allow more time to assess Creech's appeal, after the Idaho Supreme Court denied his claims. Creech must file a supplemental brief by Friday.
- What arguments did Creech's attorneys make to support the stay?
- Creech's attorneys argued that a second execution attempt would constitute cruel and unusual punishment, violating double jeopardy principles and causing further trauma after the failed procedure. They described the failed attempt as torture.