ELECTROCUTION, the popular name, invented in Amer ica, for the infliction of the death penalty on criminals by passing through the body of the condemned a current of electricity suffi cient to cause death. The method was first adopted by the State of New York, a law making this method obligatory having been passed and approved by the governor on June 4, 1888. The first criminal to be executed by this method was William Kemmler, on Aug. 6, 189o, at Auburn prison. The validity of the New York law had previously been attacked in regard to this case, as pro viding "cruel and unusual punishment" in violation of the Constitution; but it was sustained in the State courts and finally in the Federal courts (Re Kemmler, 1889, 136 U.S. 436). This method of inflicting the death penalty has now (1928) been adopted in 23 States.
The death dealing apparatus consists of a stationary engine, an alternating dynamo capable of generating a current at a pres sure of 2,000 volts, a "death-chair" with adjustable headrest, binding straps and adjustable electrodes. The voltmeter, ammeter and switch-board controlling the current are located in the execu tion-room; the dynamo-room is communicated with by electric signals. When everything is in readiness the criminal is brought in and seats himself in. the death-chair. His head, chest, arms and legs are secured by broad straps; one electrode thoroughly .moistened with salt-solution is affixed to the head, and another to the calf of one leg, both electrodes being moulded so as to secure good contact. The application of the current is usually as follows: the contact is made with a high voltage (1,800-2,000 volts) for three or four seconds, reduced to 500 volts until nearly a minute has elapsed; raised to high voltage for a second or two, again re duced to a low voltage until one minute has elapsed, when it is again raised to the high voltage for a few seconds and the contact broken. A second or even a third brief contact is sometimes made, partly as a precautionary measure, but rather the more completely to abolish reflexes in the dead body. The time consumed by the strapping-in process is usually about 45 seconds, and the first con tact is made about 70 seconds after the criminal has entered the death-chamber.
When properly performed the effect of the operation is believed to be painless and instantaneous death. Scientific opinion is di vided on this point but there can be little doubt that circulation and respiration cease with the first contact; that consciousness is blotted out instantly and that the prolonged application of the current ensures permanent derangement of the vital functions beyond recovery. To make assurance doubly sure, the law pro vides for an autopsy to be performed immediately after the execution.