Arizona Executes Death Row Inmate Aaron Gunches
On Wednesday, October 25, 2023, Arizona executed death row inmate Aaron Gunches. The 53-year-old was pronounced dead at 10:33 a.m. MST at the Arizona State Prison Complex in Florence. Gunches had been convicted of first-degree murder in 2008 for the fatal shooting of his girlfriend's ex-husband, Ted Price, in 2002.
The execution proceeded without incident, according to Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry (ADCRR) Deputy Director John Barcello. Gunches did not resist and declined to make a final statement. His last meal consisted of a double western bacon cheeseburger with fries, a spicy gyro, a barbecue gyro, onion rings, and baklava. He also declined the presence of a spiritual advisor.
Gunches' execution was the first in Arizona in over two years and the first in a state with a Democratic governor since Virginia's execution in 2017. It had originally been scheduled for April 2023 but was postponed after Governor Katie Hobbs ordered a review of the state's death penalty procedures. The review was later terminated, and the state's corrections department implemented changes to the lethal injection protocol.
Gunches is the second of four death row inmates executed in the United States this week. Louisiana executed a man on Tuesday, and two more executions are scheduled in Florida and Oklahoma on Thursday.
8 Comments
The Truth
We should focus on creating a more just and compassionate society, where rehabilitation and restorative justice take center stage, not state-sanctioned killing.
Answer
What about the victim's family? Does this execution bring them closure? Can it ever replace the loss they suffered?
The Truth
This execution sends a strong message that violent criminals will face the ultimate consequence for their actions. It's a deterrent to those who might consider such acts.
Answer
While the death penalty may be a controversial issue, it's important to remember that it is a legal and rightful punishment in many states, including Arizona.
Rotfront
While some may disagree with the death penalty, it's important to respect the decision of the legal system and the wishes of the victim's family.
Michelangelo
Gunches received a fair trial and was found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. He had exhausted all his appeals and legal options. This was the final and rightful outcome.
Raphael
This execution won't bring back the victim, nor will it undo the immense suffering it caused. Let's strive for a future where healing and respect for life prevail.
Donatello
The victim's family went through years of unbearable pain and suffering. This execution finally brought them some measure of peace and justice.