Idaho

Between 1864 and 1957, Idaho executed 26 men, all by hanging. Capital punishment was reinstated in 1973, after the United States Supreme Court struck down all death penalty statutes across the country in the 1972 Furman v. Georgia decision. Nevertheless, Idaho waited until 1994 to execute their first inmate, using the lethal injection method, although up until 2009 a firing squad was an option for execution. 

Three crimes in Idaho are punishable by death: first-degree murder with aggravating factors, aggravated kidnapping, and perjury causing execution of an innocent person. Sentencing in capital crimes is determined by jury. There are currently 8 people, including one woman, on death row in Idaho. This state is one of a few where commutation of death sentences is determined solely by a clemency board which is independent of the governor. 

Idaho Fact Sheet

For more information and ways to get involved, contact your state's organizations:

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Idaho

NAMI Idaho’s mission is to improve the quality of life for all those affected by mental illness through support, education, advocacy and research. NAMI Idaho provides information and opportunities to take action on a Severe Mental Illness Exemption Bill.

Diocese of Boise - Human Life & Dignity Ministry

The Diocese of Boise's Office of Respect Life works to proclaim the Church's Pro-Life message of life to all the faithful in Idaho. A part of their advocacy includes work to end the death penalty in Idaho.

More Info at Death Penalty Information Center