Former Tennessee prisons chief also oversaw botched executions in Arizona

NPR | By Chiara Eisner,

Michel Martin

Published October 7, 2026 at 4:44 AM EDT

Before Tennessee's prisons chief stepped down in the aftermath of a horrific failed execution, he oversaw botched executions in Arizona. A review of protocols there spelled out serious issues.

Chiara Eisner

Chiara Eisner is an investigative correspondent on NPR's National Desk. Her reporting for NPR has led to congressional action and regulatory changes, and has been honored with multiple national awards.

Michel Martin

Michel Martin is a host of Morning Edition.

See stories by Michel Martin

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