By Karim Hammam
Tennessee death row inmate Christa Pike, 50, has been returned to the emergency room following a botched execution attempt on September 30 and alleges she has been forced to clean a "roach-infested shower" since her return to prison, according to court filings obtained by PEOPLE.
Survived Two Lethal Injections
Pike survived two lethal injections of pentobarbital during the execution attempt in Nashville. She was discharged from the hospital and returned to prison, but her legal team says in an emergency motion that she has since been "returned to the emergency room once" after discharge, though not readmitted for inpatient care.
Alleges Pain and Unsafe Conditions
In an October 30 personal declaration, Pike wrote: "Several days later I woke up alone in a hospital confused and in pain. There hasn't been a moment since that night when I haven't been in pain." She detailed pain in her body, arms, hands, and throat, and said she still struggles to speak.
Seeks Reintegration With Prison Population
Pike's legal team filed the motion seeking her reintegration with part of the prison population, including group meals, classes, religious services, work assignments, and shared recreation. She argues her current pod houses inmates with significant histories of assaults and disciplinary problems, citing witnessed assaults and psychological breakdowns during her two years there.
Original 1995 Murder Conviction
Pike was convicted in 1996 of first-degree murder and conspiracy for the 1995 torture and killing of Job Corps classmate Colleen Slemmer, committed with her then-boyfriend Tadaryl Shipp. Pike was 18 at the time; Shipp was 17 and received a life sentence.
Court Deadlines Set
A judge set a November 4 deadline for defendants to respond to the filing, with Pike's team having until November 6 to reply.
