"Controversy Surrounds Missouri Death Row Inmate's Pending Execution"

Missouri's execution protocol allows for "surgery without anesthesia" if finding a suitable vein for lethal injection doesn't work, raising concerns of cruel and unusual punishment for death row inmate Brian Dorsey, who is scheduled for execution. His lawyers argue that the invasive "cutdown procedure" could be necessary due to his obesity and health conditions, and that it would violate his constitutional rights. The appeal for clemency and pending appeals focus on the execution process, attorney fees, and the qualifications of the Department of Corrections' acting director.