AP is reporting that the state has been told by Circuit Judge Wendell Griffin that it must turn over some information related to drugs used in executions.

Here is corrected link:

Steve Shults, a Little Rock lawyer, filed the suit.

The judge ordered information about one drug turned over in 30 minutes. The state said it would appeal.

Advertisement

UPDATE: It will be interesting to see how the state Supreme Court, which loves to overturn Griffen, responds. It looks to me like Steve Shults, a smart lawyer himself, and his legal team, along with the judge’s careful reasoning, has found an opening to exploit in the law written to through an official veil of secrecy over the execution process. It looks like the state must provide manufacturer’s information, which would give some assurances about the quality of the drug. But the packaging could lead those interested to the suppliers of the drug. Can’t have that.

Arkansas is adamant and proud of the death penalty in capital cases. For all its certitude though, it demonstrates recognition of the barbarity of the practice by wanting to hide information about the drugs and the executioners, not to mention the actual state killing itself.

Advertisement

Help to Keep Great Journalism Alive in Arkansas

Join the fight for truth and become a subscriber of the Arkansas Times. We've been battling powerful forces for 50 years through our tough, determined, and feisty journalism. With over 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts, our readers value great journalism. But we need your help to do even more. By subscribing and supporting our efforts, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers to expand our coverage. Together, we can continue to hold the powerful accountable and bring important stories to light. Subscribe now or donate for as little as $1 and be a part of the Arkansas Times community.

Previous article Amended racial impact study bill clears House committee Next article The End Is Near Edition