USA - Oklahoma. The U.S. Supreme Court has blocked the execution of three inmates

The U.S. Supreme Court has blocked the execution of three inmates on death row in Oklahoma after they challenged the state's lethal injection procedure. The decision means that Richard Glossip, John Grant and Benjamin Cole will not be put to death using Midazolam, which they have claimed is cruel. However, the court's order does leave open the possibility that the state could proceed with the executions of the prisoners using different drug combinations. Last week, the high court agreed to hear the case, but did not block the inmates' death sentences at that time. Arguments before the high court are set for April, with a decision due by the end of June. Oklahoma's three-drug process has been under scrutiny since the botched execution of Clayton Lockett in April last year. He could be seen twisting on the gurney after death chamber staff failed to place the IV properly. The inmates challenging the state's procedures argue the sedative midazolam, used by Oklahoma, cannot achieve the level of unconsciousness required for surgery, making it unsuitable for executions. Dale Baich, an attorney representing the inmates said: 'The scientific evidence tells us that even the proper administration of midazolam can result in an inhumane execution. But the state of Oklahoma contends its current drug combination is appropriate and effective.