Firing squad executions in South Carolina after a decade of debate. SC got the final green light after the Dept of Corrections finished renovations on their unused death chamber.
Executions in SC have been on hold since 2011 when drugs used for lethal injection were not available and the states supply expired in 2013. This new method of execution was signed into law by the Governor in May of 2021. It was a debated for 10yrs before being signed into law.
Is this a “humane” way to execute criminals
Some might say that this is the best way to execute convicted criminals sentenced to death. It is argued that the electric chair, the states other method of execution causes unnecessary pain and suffering. I have different schools of thought on this. On one hand, should I really care if a condemned prisoner suffers while being executed. Sometimes I hear in the news about a heinous criminal act and think to myself, I wish that person could be put to death in the most painful way. Especially if the crime involves a child. Sorry, but that is how I feel sometimes. On the other hand I like to think I would be above that and just be done with the person the quickest way possible.
Many have argued that a firing squad would be the quickest way to carry out a death sentence. It also seems to be the most cost effective way to do it as well. Time will tell.
Psychological effects on the firing squad
What would be the psychological effects on members of the firing squad? South Carolina has made being part of the firing squad voluntary. Taking a life is not something most people in the world will ever experience thankfully. Being part of a firing squad is different than say being a Police Officer getting into a shootout with a suspect or Soldiers fighting a war. The firing squad is executing a person that is restrained. This is much different than taking a life defending yourself.
I hope SC offers counseling to members of the firing squads. Most “normal” people would have some regret or remorse for taking a life. Then again, depending on the prisoner and the crime he/she was convicted of, some may have no problem carrying out the sentence.
Time will tell how this will play out with firing squad executions in South Carolina
