Due to the current Covid-19 outbreak, several US states have postponed their executions. However, only one did not hear it that way:Missouri. Its governor is indeed the only one to have refused such a postponement. The first execution since the start of the coronavirus epidemic will therefore take place very soon.
With over 4.5 million cases and around 310,000 deaths , the Covid-19 pandemic is impacting all parts of our civilisation. However, if prisons have already been mentioned for the risk they present in terms of transmission, the subject of executions has not really been highlighted in the media. In an article published by Slate.com on May 13, 2020, however, it is about the first execution since the start of the pandemic. This will take place on May 19, 2020 in Missouri, a state whose Governor Mike Parson is the only one in the United States to have refused any report.
The inmate involved is Walter Barton, convicted of the murder of an 81-year-old lady in 1991 . For his lawyer, the condemned is innocent and the evidence would not be reliable. Walter Barton was tried five times for this murder between 1993 and 2006 and was convicted only in the fifth trial, proof that the state had difficulty convincing the jury.
Walter Barton's lawyer sued to postpone the execution date . The person concerned mentioned the risks of transmission linked to such a gathering of people. However, Governor Mike Parson did not respond favorably to this request. It seems that the chosen one is absolutely determined to return his State to normal life after two months of confinement. Moreover, he authorized the reopening of businesses and refused to legislate to make wearing a mask compulsory. However, you should know that all this is happening while Missouri is currently experiencing an outbreak of cases of Covid-19 rather worrying.
In any case, the State will execute Walter Barton this May 19, whether he is innocent or not. Officials have planned exceptional measures, in accordance with the rules of social distancing and hygiene. Those attending the performance will have their temperature checked upon entry. In addition, the three rooms planned to accommodate the public (family, media, etc.) will have a limited capacity. This will make it possible to respect the safety distances. Obviously there will be the presence of protective masks and hydroalcoholic gel.
