BOISE, Idaho (WKRC/CNN Newsource) – Failed execution attempts delayed a man’s death and raised questions about a possible violation of double jeopardy principles if an execution was attempted again.

A federal judge has ordered a temporary stay on the execution of Idaho serial killer Thomas Creech.failed execution attempt In early 2024.

The 74-year-old man survived a lethal injection in February after authorities failed to connect an IV to several parts of his body.

Creech’s lawyers argue that executing him now would constitute cruel and unusual punishment and violate double jeopardy principles. They must submit an additional brief to the court.

CNN reached out to Creech’s attorneys on Saturday, but they had no comment.

Creech, the longest-serving death row inmate in Idaho history, was sentenced to death in 1981 after pleading guilty to murdering another inmate. At the time he was already serving four life sentences.

Authorities described Creech as a serial killer who confessed to killing up to 40 people.