After 30 Years, Senator Calls for Justice in Powell County Murders

State Senator Brandon Smith, R-Hazard, is urging Governor Andy Beshear to sign a death warrant for Ralph Baze, the man convicted of murdering Powell County Sheriff Steve Bennett and Deputy Arthur Briscoe more than 30 years ago. In a letter sent Friday, Smith said the state must finally carry out the jury’s sentence and deliver justice to the victims’ families.

“Sheriff Bennett and Deputy Briscoe gave their lives in service to their community, and their families have waited far too long for justice,” Smith said. “Kentucky juries and courts have spoken with clarity. Every appeal has been exhausted. The verdict of the jury reflects the will of the people of Kentucky, and that verdict must be respected.”

A Case with National Impact

Baze, now 55, was sentenced to death in 1994. His case drew national attention in 2007 when the U.S. Supreme Court reviewed Kentucky’s lethal injection protocol. The Court upheld the method, but the case caused a nationwide pause in executions. Kentucky has not carried out an execution since 2008.

Attorney General Pushes to End Moratorium

Smith’s demand comes as Attorney General Russell Coleman renews efforts to lift the state’s death penalty moratorium. Coleman filed motions to end a 2010 Franklin Circuit Court injunction that halted executions. He argues the Department of Corrections has updated its protocols and that federal action has cleared a path for states to access lethal injection drugs.

“Justice delayed is justice denied,” Smith said. “The attorney general has laid out a legal path forward. The federal government has pledged to help states obtain the necessary drugs. There are no more excuses. Only the governor stands in the way of justice being realized.”

Governor’s Position Under Scrutiny

Governor Beshear has said he supports the death penalty “for some crimes so terrible.” Yet he has declined to sign a warrant in the Baze case. Families of Sheriff Bennett and Deputy Briscoe remain frustrated, noting the Governor’s Office has not reached out to them.

Broader Context on Kentucky’s Death Row

Kentucky currently houses 24 inmates on death row. Since 1998, lethal injection has been the authorized method of execution, but the state has faced years of litigation and drug shortages. Neighboring states like Tennessee and Ohio have dealt with similar problems. Smith argues Kentucky now has the framework to move forward.

“Signing this warrant is not only a matter of law but a matter of respect for victims, their families, and every Kentuckian who expects the rule of law to be upheld,” Smith said. “Governor Beshear has a choice: stand with victims’ families and law enforcement, or continue to block the very justice our courts have demanded.”

Letter Highlights Path Forward

Smith sent a copy of his letter to Attorney General Coleman and Department of Corrections Commissioner Cookie Crews. The letter makes clear that, in his view, only the governor’s refusal prevents the jury’s verdict from being enforced.

Senator’s Background

Smith represents the 30th Senate District, which includes Breathitt, Estill, Lee, Leslie, Magoffin, Morgan, Perry, Powell, and Wolfe Counties. He serves as co-chair of the Interim Joint Committee on Natural Resources and Energy and sits on several other committees, including Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection.