Revisionist History: The Alabama Murders The Alabama Murders - Part 7: The Second Warrant
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Nov 6, 2025 
In this gripping discussion, psychologist Kate Porterfield shares insights on Kenneth Smith's mental state and the heavy psychological toll of a second execution warrant. Joel Zivett, an anesthesiologist, delves into the controversial method of nitrogen hypoxia, explaining its risks and physiological effects. Attorney Robert Grass recounts the emotional complexities of witnessing the execution, including disturbing reactions that challenge the state's narrative. Together, they explore the moral implications of the legal failures surrounding the case.
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Nitrogen Isn't Instant Or Harmless
- Joel Zivett explains nitrogen is inert and can render people unconscious by displacing oxygen, but its effect isn't instantaneous or painless.
- Holding breath before inhaling nitrogen can provoke seizures and other unpredictable physiologic cascades.
Lab Evidence Warned Against Nitrogen
- Animal research found nitrogen and carbon monoxide cause longer times to unconsciousness and higher stress and lung damage.
- Scientists warned these gases are not humane alternatives even for laboratory animals.
Protocol Over Procedure Risks Lives
- Alabama planned to use the same execution setup but replace IV drugs with a nitrogen mask, revealing reliance on procedural sameness rather than safety data.
- The Department of Corrections admitted it had no medical personnel involved in developing the protocol.