A July execution date has been set for a death row inmate who is challenging the state's lethal injection method.

The Attorney General's Office says Danville Circuit Court set the execution date for Christopher Scott Emmett for the 2001 bludgeoning death of a co-worker.

Emmett's execution was one of dozens halted by the Supreme Court while it considered whether lethal injection amounted to cruel and unusual punishment.

The court upheld the method of execution, but Emmett claims Virginia's method is unconstitutional because it does not ensure sufficient anesthesia before the paralyzing and heart-stopping drugs are administered.

A three-judge panel of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments in Emmett's case May 14, and attorneys expected a decision within 60 days.