A federal judge has granted a stay of execution for Idaho serial killer Thomas Creech, just one week before he was scheduled to be put to death. This decision comes after Creech survived a botched execution earlier this year.
In February, Creech, 74, survived a lethal injection execution when authorities were unable to establish an IV line throughout multiple parts of his body, as stated in court documents. His attorneys argued that carrying out another death sentence after the failed execution would constitute cruel and unusual punishment and violate double jeopardy principles. They also highlighted that Creech was left traumatized after the execution team made eight unsuccessful attempts to start the IV line.
The petition filed on October 17 stated, “Attempting to execute Mr. Creech by any method, after the botched execution attempt, would represent torture and a lingering death.”
On Wednesday, Judge G. Murray Snow granted Creech a reprieve, citing the need for more time to assess Creech’s other appeal after the Idaho Supreme Court decision denying his claims came just a week before his scheduled execution. Creech is now required to file a supplemental brief by Friday, as per court documents, and his case will continue to be reviewed.
