News / FJP Releases

March 18, 2025 (Louisiana) — Fair and Just Prosecution (FJP) condemns the upcoming execution of Jessie Hoffman in Louisiana, who is scheduled to be executed by nitrogen hypoxia today, Tuesday, March 18th. The United Nations and other experts have said nitrogen asphyxiation may cause pain and suffering that violates the international ‘prohibition on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment.’ This untested and torturous method only adds another layer of cruelty to the already inhumane practice of state-sanctioned murder. This will be the first execution in Louisiana in 15 years, and the state will become just the second state to carry out executions by nitrogen suffocation if Governor Landry does not act quickly.

On Tuesday, March 18, 2025 Kate Murphy – a relative of Mary “Molly” Elliot whom Mr. Hoffman was convicted of killing – wrote a letter to Louisiana officials asking for a pardon hearing for Mr. Hoffman. Mrs. Murphy wrote that “executing Jessie Hoffman is not justice in my name, it is the opposite.”

Acting Co-Executive Director Amy Fettig issued the following statement ahead of Louisiana’s planned execution of Jessie Hoffman today:

“Barring last minute intervention, the state of Louisiana will execute Mr. Hoffman with nitrogen asphyxiation today. True justice is not found in executions but in breaking cycles of violence, offering rehabilitation services, and recognizing the humanity of everyone. Mr. Hoffman has spent decades working to rehabilitate himself, demonstrating genuine remorse and personal growth. He has pursued self-improvement and built meaningful relationships with those who have witnessed his transformation. He has mentored other incarcerated individuals, offering guidance and support to help them make better choices. Through his actions, he has shown that people are capable of change when given the opportunity. Executing Mr. Hoffman disregards not only his rehabilitation, but also the very idea that redemption is possible.

“The death penalty does not prevent crime—it fails to deter violence and instead perpetuates it under the guise of justice. This ultimate punishment is inflicted on the most vulnerable—those trapped in cycles of poverty, abuse, untreated mental illness, and trauma. Rather than addressing the root causes of crime, the state punishes those already failed by society. Our thoughts are with the loved ones of both Jessie Hoffman and his victim, Mary Elliott, as they navigate this painful time. A legal system that prevents harm and delivers accountability and repair is the only path forward.”