The Execution of Duane Owen: A Controversial End to a 37-Year-Old Case

Introduction

In a long-awaited culmination of justice, Duane Owen, convicted of the heinous murders of 14-year-old Karen Slattery and single mother Georgianna Worden, was executed by lethal injection on Thursday evening. After spending 37 years on death row, Owen’s final moments stirred emotions and raised questions about the death penalty system in Florida.

The Final Statement

As the procedure commenced at 6:01 p.m., Owen’s arms twitched, and his breathing grew heavier under the influence of the sedative. However, when asked if he wanted to make a final statement, he responded with a resolute “no.” This silence left many wondering about the thoughts that occupied his mind in those closing moments.

Last Meal and Preparation

The day of Owen’s execution began at 7 a.m., when he woke up to face the inevitable. At 9:45 a.m., he consumed his last meal, a somber affair that marked the end of an era. The Florida Department of Corrections meticulously oversaw the preparations, ensuring every detail adhered to the established protocols.

Death Row Statistics in Florida

Owen’s execution shed light on the grim reality of death row in Florida. Currently, there are 292 men and three women awaiting their fate. While most death row inmates are housed at Union Correctional Institution, Owen was transferred to Florida State Prison, located a mile away, for his execution.

The Role of the Executioner

Florida law allows for anonymity when it comes to the executioner, an individual paid $150 per execution. Their task is to administer the lethal drugs through an intravenous injection. The process requires precision and expertise, as the executioner ensures the chemicals are properly delivered to fulfill the intended purpose.

The Lethal Injection Process

Lethal injection, the method employed in Owen’s execution, involves a carefully selected combination of drugs. The three components are Etomidate, an anesthetic sedative, Rocuronium Bromide, a muscle relaxant, and Potassium Acetate, which stops the heart. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement oversees the execution, ensuring proper administration and monitoring the inmate’s condition throughout the process.

The Official Witness Room

To maintain a transparent and accountable system, an official witness room is established near the execution chamber. This room accommodates various individuals with designated roles. It includes family members of the victim, a nurse or medical technician, members of the media, representatives from the Florida Department of Corrections public affairs office, designated escorts, and team members involved in the execution process.

Recording Time of Death and Notification

Once a physician pronounces the inmate dead, a member of the execution team meticulously records the time of death. This documentation is crucial for official records and future reference. Subsequently, the team warden notifies the governor’s office that the execution has been successfully carried out, closing a chapter in the state’s justice system.

Contemplating the Death Penalty

Owen’s execution marks Florida’s fourth this year, following a hiatus since 2019. Such events ignite public discourse surrounding the efficacy and ethics of the death penalty. Advocates argue for its deterrent effect and retribution, while opponents highlight concerns regarding wrongful convictions, the potential for cruel and unusual punishment, and the moral implications of state-sanctioned killing.

Conclusion

The execution of Duane Owen, after 37 years on death row, serves as a reminder of the complexities and controversies surrounding capital punishment. As the debate continues, society grapples with questions of justice, morality, and the need for reform within the criminal justice system.