Alabama executed Demetrius Terrence Frazier using nitrogen gas, marking the fourth such execution in the United States and reigniting the debate on capital punishment methods.
Quick Takes
- Demetrius Frazier was executed for the 1991 murder and rape of Pauline Brown in Birmingham, Alabama.
- This was the fourth execution using nitrogen gas in the U.S., with Alabama pioneering the method.
- The execution method involves replacing oxygen with nitrogen, leading to death by asphyxiation.
- Alabama officials claim the method is constitutional and effective, while opponents label it as torture.
- Frazier apologized to Brown’s family in his final moments, sparking discussions on redemption and justice.
Alabama Leads in Controversial Execution Method
Alabama has once again thrust itself into the national spotlight by carrying out its fourth execution using nitrogen gas. The state, which pioneered this controversial method, executed Demetrius Terrence Frazier for the 1991 murder and rape of Pauline Brown in Birmingham. This execution marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate surrounding capital punishment in the United States.
Alabama inmate Demetrius Frazier was executed at the William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore for the 1991 slaying of a Birmingham woman. pic.twitter.com/LAqGnUjPx9
— AL.com (@aldotcom) February 7, 2025
The use of nitrogen gas for executions involves replacing oxygen with nitrogen, leading to death by asphyxiation. Proponents argue that this method is more humane than lethal injection, while critics contend it amounts to cruel and unusual punishment. Alabama’s decision to continue using this method has intensified scrutiny of its capital punishment practices.
State Officials Defend Execution as Justice Served
Alabama’s Governor Kay Ivey and Attorney General Steve Marshall have been vocal in their support of the execution, framing it as a necessary step in upholding the law and providing closure to the victim’s family with Governor Kay stating “In Alabama, we enforce the law.” Their statements reflect a commitment to a tough-on-crime approach that resonates with many conservative voters in the state.
Attorney General Steve Marshall echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the long-awaited justice for Pauline Brown’s family. “For more than three decades, the family of Pauline Brown has waited for justice,” Marshall stated, highlighting the perceived closure that the execution brings to those affected by Frazier’s crimes.
Frazier’s Final Moments and Legal Challenges
In his final statement, Frazier expressed remorse for his actions, apologizing to Brown’s family and friends stating “I want to apologize to the family and friends of Pauline Brown. What happened to her should have never happened.” His last meal consisted of burritos, a chicken chalupa, chips and dip, and Mountain Dew.
Frazier’s legal team had argued that the use of nitrogen gas for execution violated the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment. However, these challenges were ultimately unsuccessful, with Alabama’s Attorney General maintaining that the method is both constitutional and effective.
The Debate Continues
The execution of Demetrius Frazier has reignited the national debate on capital punishment, particularly regarding the methods used. While Alabama officials assert that nitrogen hypoxia is a humane and effective method, opponents continue to voice concerns about its potential for causing undue suffering.
As more states consider adopting this method, the execution of Demetrius Frazier serves as a focal point for discussions on the ethics of capital punishment, the role of the state in administering justice, and the balance between punishment and human rights.
Sources:
Alabama inmate’s final words and meal revealed as he’s executed for 1991 murder
‘A monster’: Demetrius Frazier executed by nitrogen gas in Alabama for woman’s 1991 murder
