Supreme Court dismisses bid to execute inmate with borderline intellectual disability
The Supreme Court has dismissed Alabama's request to execute Joseph Clifton Smith, a convicted murderer deemed intellectually disabled by lower courts. This decision upholds previous rulings that prevent the execution of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The case highlights the complexities surrounding borderline intellectual disability and the interpretation of IQ test scores.
- ▪The Supreme Court dismissed Alabama's bid to execute Joseph Clifton Smith, who has been on death row for nearly 28 years.
- ▪Smith's IQ scores ranged from 72 to 78, raising questions about his intellectual disability status.
- ▪The court's decision leaves in place lower court rulings that favor Smith's claim of intellectual disability.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onSupreme Court dismisses bid to execute inmate with borderline intellectual disabilityA divided Supreme Court has dismissed Alabama’s bid to be allowed to execute a convicted murderer who was found by lower courts to be intellectually disabledByMARK SHERMAN Associated PressMay 21, 2026, 10:39 AM1:43The Supreme Court is seen in Washington, Monday, May 18, 2026. (AP Photo/J.
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