Whew! Christa Pike’s legal battle is reportedly taking another serious turn as new medical concerns surrounding the convicted killer have raised questions about what could happen if Tennessee moves forward with another attempt to execute her. Now, her attorneys are pointing to a rare health condition they say could make the process even more dangerous.
RELATED: Christa Pike Releases Statement Following Botched Execution By Tennessee Department Of Corrections
Attorneys Cite Rare Blood Disorder In Execution Concerns
According to PEOPLE, citing a complaint filed by Christa Pike’s legal team on January 8, her attorneys warned that the 50-year-old is reportedly dealing with a rare blood disorder potentially linked to a form of blood cancer called myeloproliferative disorder.
In the filing, they stated that her platelet count is significantly elevated. Her legal team also argued that her condition, known as thrombocytosis, could put her at risk of developing severe pulmonary edema during a lethal injection. The condition can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, potentially resulting in extreme breathing difficulties. Her attorneys described the possibility as a risk of severe pain and suffering, comparing the sensation to drowning.
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Pike Previously Survived Botched Lethal Injection Attempt
The latest concerns come after Pike reportedly survived a botched lethal injection attempt that left her unconscious and in critical condition in the hospital. She was allegedly administered two doses of pentobarbital using at least 10 needles before the execution attempt was stopped. Pike was poised to become the first woman executed in Tennessee in more than 200 years. She is also reportedly the first death row inmate in the state to survive a lethal injection attempt.
Safety Concerns Raised Over Prison Conditions And Retrial
Pike was eventually returned to the Debra K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center, where she has reportedly remained in solitary confinement. In a statement released Friday, she described feeling cut off from human connection. Moreover, Pike expressed concerns about being transferred back to her former prison pod.
In a recently filed motion, Pike argued that the unit houses inmates with histories of assaults and disciplinary issues, adding that her current physical condition would leave her unable to defend herself if attacked. Meanwhile, her attorneys have argued that another lethal injection could violate her constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment, as well as other constitutional rights.
