Buddhist, convicted asks not to be executed by a controversial method in the USA

Execution method consists of condemned inhaling pure nitrogen gas, which causes suffocation. Hoffman Jr. said he suffers from claustrophobia and claims to believe that the proposed execution form can bring severe suffering. “The idea of ​​wearing a mask covering the face,” said condemned, “I fear you can trigger something.”

Hypoxia by inhalation of nitrogen gas is challenged by UN (United Nations) experts. In 2024, the UN Human Rights Office warned of practice, which resembles “cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, or even torture.” Executed by inhalation may take more than 20 minutes to die while suffering from seizures and spasms. Hypoxia occurs when body tissues do not receive sufficient oxygen.

Convicted would be first person to be executed in the state with this method. Louisiana approved the use of the method only last month. Hoffman Jr. has even proposed to use a cocktail of remedies similar to that used in assisted suicides, but state prosecutors said these medications are not available.

Execution is scheduled for the 18th of this month. It is up to a district judge to decide whether the chosen method will be maintained.

Hoffman Jr. was convicted of kidnapping, rape, theft and murder of a woman in 1996. At the age of 18, he committed crimes against publicist Mary Elliott, who was 26 years old. His body was found by a hunter in a scrub two days after being killed.

Activists ask for interruption of execution. The Catholic Mobilizing Network Group (Catholic Mobilization Network) asks Hoffman Jr., stating that “the death penalty is an act of violence sanctioned by the state that violates the sacred dignity of all human life.”