Exploring the Prevalence of the Death Penalty in the United States

The recent survival of Christa Pike after two lethal injection attempts in Tennessee has reignited the debate on the death penalty's prevalence in the US. BBC Verify's investigation into the statistics and facts reveals that while capital punishment is legal in 30 states, its application varies widely. Some states have not executed anyone in decades, while others have seen an increase in executions. The complexities and controversies surrounding the death penalty are also explored.

Key facts

• The death penalty is legal in 30 states in the US.
• Application of the death penalty varies significantly across states.
• Some states have not carried out executions in decades, while others have seen an increase.
• The debate over the death penalty includes issues of fairness, effectiveness, and morality.

Sources

• BBC News