Madison v. Alabama
United States Supreme Court
139 S. Ct. 718 (2019)
- Written by Eric Miller, JD
Facts
Vernon Madison (defendant) killed a police officer and was sentenced to death in state court. Years later, while on death row, Madison suffered a series of strokes and was diagnosed with vascular dementia. The condition resulted in disorientation, cognitive impairment, and memory loss. Madison petitioned the state court for a stay of execution, arguing that he could no longer remember committing the murder and that execution under the circumstances would constitute cruel and unusual punishment. The state of Alabama (the state) (plaintiff) countered that even if Madison could not remember the crime, he was still capable of understanding the reasons for the punishment. The court found Madison competent to be executed. A subsequent appeal led to the same result. Madison then petitioned the United States Supreme Court for a stay and for certiorari, which were granted.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Kagan, J.)
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