Mississippi moves towards executing its longest-serving death row inmate, as legal challenges continue to mount.
At a Glance
- Mississippi Attorney General filed for an execution date for Richard Gerald Jordan.
- Jordan, 78, was sentenced in 1976 for kidnapping and murder.
- His latest appeal for an independent mental health expert was rejected.
- Use of midazolam in executions remains controversial in Mississippi.
Longest-Serving Inmate Faces Execution
The Mississippi Attorney General has initiated steps to schedule the execution of Richard Gerald Jordan, who has been on death row since 1976. Convicted of the abduction and murder of Edwina Marter, Jordan’s prolonged legal battle witnessed his latest appeal get denied by the Mississippi Supreme Court. The appeal emphasized the need for an independent mental health expert, aligning with a pivotal 2017 U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
Attorney General Lynn Fitch’s pursuit of setting an execution date comes amidst the depletion of state and federal legal remedies for Jordan. Despite these hurdles, Jordan’s defense attorney, Krissy Nobile, remains committed to exhausting all potential legal avenues. Nobile’s dedication extends to seeking a rehearing, challenging the current judicial consensus.
The Crime and Legal Journey
In January 1976, Richard Gerald Jordan abducted Edwina Marter, taking her to a secluded forest where he ultimately took her life. Following this heinous act, Jordan attempted to secure a ransom from Marter’s husband under the guise that she was unharmed. Such criminal activities led to his conviction and longstanding journey through the legal system.
Despite filing numerous appeals over the years, Jordan’s case frequently encountered roadblocks. His recent plea centered around the necessity of a psychiatric evaluation specifically for his defense, echoing previous appeals, as noted by the Mississippi justices. Federal rulings found no constitutional violations in these matters, thereby upholding his original sentence.
Controversies and Challenges
One of the notable legal battles includes Jordan’s challenge against Mississippi’s execution protocol, especially the inclusion of midazolam. Such concerns have not only fueled his legal pursuits but also stirred broader debates regarding lethal injection methods. U.S. District Judge Henry Wingate’s pending decision on this matter further complicates the road ahead.
Although Judge Wingate did not halt the execution of another inmate, the overarching questions about midazolam and its role in lethal injections remain unresolved. As Jordan’s potential execution draws closer, the state faces ongoing scrutiny over its execution protocols and the broader implications on both state and national levels.
