The problem with this quotation is the use of the verb "say" and the displacement of the subject "Amanda Brier."
Explanation:
In formal and academic writing, some verbs like "say" to report indirect speech are not considered correct since they do not fit in the context. A better option can be the use of the verb "state" or "express." Besides, it is better to follow the subject, verb, complement structure. Thus, a better option could be the following one:
Amanda Brier, director of the Commission for Just Punishments, states that "The death penalty is a cruel and unusual form of punishment for crime."
