The new execution chamber at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary was reconstructed after the April execution of Clayton Derrell Lockett went awry. A state Public Safety Department investigation later revealed substantial problems with both execution protocol and facilities.
Charles Fredrick Warner is scheduled to die Nov. 13, and Richard Eugene Glossip is scheduled to be executed by the state one week later, on Nov. 20. In September, a federal judge expressed doubts the state Corrections Department could implement changes to its protocol in time for the executions. That protocol was unveiled Oct. 1.
Reporters were restricted from asking questions that were not directly related to the new execution chamber, however, Corrections Department spokeswoman Terri Watkins did acknowledge the November executions would remain on schedule.
The most significant change to the chamber was the enlargement of the “chemical room,” where the executioners administer the lethal drugs.
The execution room, where the condemned inmate is strapped to a gurney, was shortened slightly to make room for the changes.
As a result of the smaller execution chamber, seating was shortened in the witness area, and media seats for executions have been reduced, as well.
