As public defenders, we know each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done. Everyone is capable of redemption and transformation. This includes Jessie Hoffman. The planned execution of Mr. Hoffman by nitrogen gas is cruel, inhumane, and unconstitutional. It also disregards the dignity, worth, and capacity for change and redemption in all of us - particularly Mr. Hoffman.
We know the death penalty has an extensive record of wrongful convictions, prosecutorial misconduct, and racial and cognitive disparities among the condemned. The use of the death penalty ought to be abandoned not only for what it does to those who are executed, but for what it does to all of society.
The Orleans Public Defenders opposes the execution of Jessie Hoffman and implores us all to end the death penalty, and instead further the health, safety, and wellbeing of all Louisianans.
