Ronald Smith, Canadian on death row, challenges Montana's execution methods
Lawyers for Ronald Smith argue sedative can lead to "excruciating and terrifying" death
A constitutional challenge to Montana's execution methods could have a direct impact on a Canadian on death row in the U.S. state.
Lawyers for two death-row inmates, including Ronald Smith of Red Deer, Alta., are in a Helena courtroom arguing that a sedative called for under Montana's lethal injection protocols could lead to an "excruciating and terrifying" death.
Ron Waterman of the American Civil Liberties Union says the drug doesn't adhere to a state law requiring an "ultra-fast-acting" barbiturate be used.
The hearing is set for two days and Judge Jeffrey Sherlock is expected to reserve his decision.
Smith has been on death row in Montana since 1983 for the murder of two young men after he was bingeing on drugs and alcohol.
He originally requested he be executed, but later changed his mind and has been fighting to stay alive ever since.