Utah judge sets execution date for man with dementia after 37 years on death row

In Utah, a judge has scheduled the execution of Ralph Leroy Menzies for September 5, 2025, despite his lawyers arguing that he suffers from severe dementia that impairs his understanding of the situation. Menzies, who is 67 years old, has been on death row for 37 years following the 1986 abduction and murder of Maurine Hunsaker, a mother of three. In a previous ruling, Judge Matthew Bates stated that Menzies 'consistently and rationally' understands the reasons for his execution, even amid concerns about his cognitive decline. The decision to execute him by firing squad comes after he designated this method years ago, making him the sixth person to face this form of execution since 1977. While Menzies' attorneys have filed appeals and requested a reassessment of his mental competence, the judge indicated that these appeals do not warrant delaying the execution date. A hearing is set for July 23 to further evaluate Menzies' competency as the legal battle continues. The Utah Attorney General's Office expressed confidence in the judge's decision, emphasizing that if a prisoner cannot comprehend the reason for their execution, it raises ethical concerns about the execution process itself. Hunsaker's son expressed the long journey toward justice for his family, acknowledging the emotional toll of waiting for closure. The case has significant implications, as it raises questions about the treatment of inmates with severe mental health issues and the ethics of capital punishment in these circumstances.