Execution of Jeffrey Todd West in Alabama
On Thursday afternoon, the Alabama Department of Corrections carried out the execution of Jeffrey Todd West. He was convicted of murdering Margaret Parrish Berry during a robbery at a convenience store back in 1997.
This execution marked the first use of nitrogen gas as a method of execution, both in Alabama and nationwide. According to reports, West, who declined to deliver a final statement, was pronounced dead approximately 26 minutes after the procedure began. John Hamm, the Chair of the Amendment, noted that everything transpired “just as expected, according to protocol.”
West expressed his regret in a statement to the press relayed by his lawyer. He mentioned his humility over the forgiveness extended by Berry’s son. He also emphasized a recent baptism in the Catholic Church and urged the public to “find God.”
During a phone call with the Associated Press, West stated, “I don’t regret it, and I don’t have a day to hope that I can get it back.”
Will Berry, one of Margaret Berry’s sons, wrote to Governor Kay Ivey earlier this year, sharing his belief that “vengeance is not for the nation” and that it belongs to the Lord. On September 11, Ivy replied, allowing the execution to move forward.
Berry articulated his thoughts, saying, “I believe Alabama plays God by trying to execute Mr. West.” He emphasized that he seeks no revenge for either himself or his mother, and that life without the possibility of parole is sufficient punishment.
Requests for a meeting between Berry and West were denied due to security protocols, a decision that West’s legal team described as a “lost opportunity” for closure.
In a statement, Ivy reaffirmed his duty to uphold the law, noting that over the past three decades, West’s guilt had been uncontested. He expressed his belief that this execution was a necessary act of justice and wished for healing for all involved.
Following the execution, Berry stated, “I pray for him,” wishing peace for West as he faces his Maker.
As noted by the Alabama Department of Corrections, West’s execution was the 24th carried out during Ivey’s time as Governor of Alabama.
