Prison

Supreme Court further closes the prison gates

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The recent decision by the Supreme Court to deny Danny Howell’s petition for review has raised significant concerns regarding access to justice for incarcerated individuals. In a move that goes beyond simply dismissing Howell’s request, the Court has implemented a policy that restricts future noncriminal petitions filed in forma pauperis. This decision, which has been described as a “Martin-izing” of petitioners, has profound implications for those unable to afford the substantial costs associated with filing in the Supreme Court. Understanding the Implications of the Court’s Decision Filing a petition in the Supreme Court is not … Read more

Court Denies Appeal on Prison Construction and School Prayer Cases

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On a recent Monday, the Supreme Court made a significant ruling regarding the obligations of local governments in prison construction and the contentious issue of school prayer. The court’s decision came in the wake of an appeal from the sheriff of New Orleans, who sought to challenge the city’s responsibility to construct a new facility for inmates with mental health issues. This case has been ongoing for over a decade, stemming from claims by inmates that the existing facilities violated constitutional standards by failing to adequately address their mental health needs. Background of the Case … Read more

Justices Evaluate Limits of the Compassionate-Release Statute

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In the recent cases of Fernandez v. United States and Rutherford v. United States, the Supreme Court examined the boundaries of the compassionate-release statute under 18 U.S.C. § 3582(c)(1)(A)(i). This statute allows federal inmates to seek early release from prison if they can demonstrate “extraordinary and compelling” reasons for such a request. The justices’ skepticism towards the defendants’ claims highlighted the complexities surrounding the application of this statute and its intersection with traditional habeas corpus proceedings. Understanding the Compassionate-Release Statute The compassionate-release statute was enacted to provide a mechanism for federal prisoners to obtain relief … Read more

Court Appears Skeptical of Prison Inmate’s Religious Liberty Claim

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The ongoing legal battle surrounding the rights of inmates to practice their religion freely has taken center stage in a recent Supreme Court case. Damon Landor, a Louisiana inmate and devout Rastafarian, is challenging the actions of prison officials who forcibly shaved his dreadlocks. This incident raises significant questions about the extent to which inmates can assert their religious beliefs while incarcerated, particularly under the protections afforded by federal law. The Case Background Landor’s legal journey began five years ago when he was transferred to the Raymond Laborde Correctional Center (RLCC) with only three weeks … Read more