Ketamine was first developed in 1962. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medication needed in a basic health system. It is legally sold under a very wide variety of brand names, including Ketalar.
If the crime you commit (generally just first degree murder) is in a state that does not have the death penalty then the only way you can be executed is if you are tried in a federal court as opposed to a state court.
The possible sentences for first degree murder vary widely by state. In some states, such as Florida, all first degree murder convictions bring either the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.