A last supper on death row: Should America give murderers an extravagant final meal?

The tradition of granting last-meal requests to those condemned to death in the US is steeped in history and controversy. It allows society to briefly show compassion for those about to die, highlighting the deep-seated discomfort with the act of execution itself, according to experts.

Jamie Mills, a convicted murderer sentenced to death for the brutal killing of an elderly couple, chose a seafood buffet: three large shrimp, two catfish filets, three oysters, three onion rings, and one stuffed crab. This request was granted, providing a brief moment of comfort and normalcy before he faced death.

In 19 states where capital punishment is practiced, the approach to last meals varies widely. Twelve states permit special last meals, with two imposing price limits. Six states restrict condemned prisoners to the regular prison menu, reflecting concerns over cost and the perceived propriety of such gestures.

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Deborah Denno, a law professor and founding director of the Neuroscience and Law Center at Fordham University, spoke on the emotional significance of food. She told USA Today : "Food is a focal point for all of us. It’s a point of enjoyment, pleasure, and comfort. Providing a last meal for someone about to die allows us to feel a bit better about ourselves, acknowledging their humanity in their final moments."

Another prisoner, Brian Dorsey, who was executed in Missouri, requested a feast of two bacon double cheeseburgers, two orders of chicken strips, two large orders of seasoned fries, and a pizza with sausage, pepperoni, onion, mushrooms, and extra cheese. This meal served hours before his execution, allowed Dorsey a final moment of normalcy and choice.

Historical origins of the last meal tradition can be traced back to ancient practices, such as the Last Supper that Christians believe Jesus shared with his apostles before his crucifixion, and ancient Greece, where those condemned to die were fed to prevent them from returning as hungry ghosts. In the US, the last meal symbolizes the nation’s conflicted feelings about capital punishment and our collective interest in the rituals surrounding the end of life.

Sarah Gerwig, a law professor at Mercer University, explained how death row inmates often long for meals that evoke memories of home and happier times. "The men and women in prison yearn for normalcy," she says. "For them, a last meal is a small luxury, a final connection to their past and a world that once felt normal."

Some prisoners use their last meal requests to make statements or offer symbolic gestures. Victor Feguer’s request for a single olive with the pit intact symbolized peace, while Donnie Edward Johnson declined a special meal and asked that meals be donated to the homeless, demonstrating compassion even in his final hours.

State policies on last meals are varied. Texas, after an extravagant request from Lawrence Brewer, abolished special last meals in 2011. Brewer’s lavish request included two chicken-fried steaks, a triple-patty bacon cheeseburger, and a pint of Blue Bell Ice Cream, among other items. This led to a public outcry and a subsequent policy change.

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Despite the modest cost of last meals relative to the overall expense of capital punishment, the idea of spending taxpayer dollars on these requests remains contentious.

In South Dakota, condemned inmates can request a last meal from items available to the prison’s food service provider. Charles Rhines, executed for murder, chose fried chicken, cantaloupe, Norwegian flatbread lefsa, and a variety of other foods, reflecting personal and cultural significance.

Other states, like Nevada and Wyoming, offer limited but meaningful choices, allowing inmates to select from the prison menu or make requests within certain guidelines. These choices, while constrained, provide a small measure of control and dignity.

Carey Dean Moore, the last person executed in Nebraska, shared a meal of Pizza Hut, cheesecake, and soda with friends and family. This gathering the night before his execution was described by his spiritual adviser as a "sacred moment" and "like being able to participate in your own funeral meal."