FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                      Contact:  Julie Walburn

November 13, 20009                                                                          DRC Bureau of Communications

                                                                                                                        (614) 752-1150

                                                                                                         Julie.walburn@odrc.state.oh.us 

 Ohio Prisons Director Announces Changes to Ohio’s Execution Process

(Columbus) – Today, Terry J. Collins, Director of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) held a press briefing during which he outlined changes that have been applied to the execution process in Ohio. 

The following is taken from a prepared statement that Director Collins read during the briefing:

“On September 15, 2009, DRC experienced rare and exceptional circumstances in preparing to execute Inmate Romell Broom, which prompted us to re-examine our current process and consider alternate or back-up means of execution.  As a result, I have given instructions for two substantive changes to the execution protocol, the first regarding the drugs used and the second regarding the inclusion of a back-up procedure.”  

“We have conducted a full examination to consider all circumstances that can impact our ability to fulfill our legally mandated obligation in carrying out the execution process for the State of Ohio.”

Today an affidavit was filed with the federal court detailing the changes that I have authorized in the lethal injection procedures used in Ohio.”  

“The previous method of execution included a three-drug protocol applied intravenously.  The first change to the execution procedure includes the adoption of a one-drug protocol, using thiopental sodium alone, applied intravenously.  Pancuronium bromide and potassium chloride will no longer be used as a part of the process.  In the event that an IV site cannot be established or maintained, then I have authorized the use of an intramuscular injection of midazolam and hydromorphone as a back-up means of carrying out the execution.”  

My staff is currently working on revising our policies and procedures to reflect the changes to the execution protocols.  I have instructed all involved that the changes will be complete and become effective no later than November 30, 2009.”

“The execution team in Ohio carries out a very difficult task and does so in a professional and humane manner.  Their ability to perform their duties was never in question during this study.  The adoption of the new execution protocol will not only simplify the execution process but will also ensure that the execution team will be able to address any rare and exceptional circumstances.”