HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-6020IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
NOTICE TO DEFEND
No. UJ-GU,)U ?tA-41
Civil Action - Equity
You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set
forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after
this Complaint and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally
or by attorney and filing in writing with the Court your defenses or objections to
the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case
may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court
without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint or for any other
claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other
rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF
YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR
TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND WHERE YOU
CAN GET LEGAL HELP.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17105
(717)-249-3166
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION No.
CAMP HILL,
Civil Action - Equity
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
COMPLAINT
AND NOW, comes the Plaintiff, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Department of Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill, by and
through its undersigned counsel avers the following in support of this Complaint:
1. This action is brought in the Court's original jurisdiction.
2. Plaintiff is the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Corrections.
3. Plaintiff is an executive agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
responsible for administering the state correctional system, including the
State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill (SCI-Camp Hill).
4. Defendant Pressley is an inmate presently incarcerated at SCI-Camp Hill.
5. Since October 25, 2005, Defendant Pressley has refused to eat his meals.
6. As of Tuesday, November 22, 2005, Mr. Pressley missed more than 75
meals.
7. Mr. Pressley has been engaged in at least three other hunger strikes, the last
of which ended approximately six months ago. None of the other strikes
lasted as long as Mr. Pessley's current strike.
8. During the last week, Mr. Pressley refused to be medically examined or
weighed by staff at SCI Camp Hill.
9. By denying medical staff access to test results, the Department of
Corrections is unable to completely evaluate his physical condition.
10. On February 6, 2005, Mr. Pressley weighed 206 pounds.
11. On November 11, 2005, the last time that Mr. Pressley consented to being
weighed, Mr. Pressley weighed 156 pounds.
12. On the morning of Monday, November 21, 2005, Mr. Pressley initially
appeared to be unresponsive and lethargic when staff entered his cell during
a.m. pill line.
13. It is the opinion of Dr. David Underwood, Staff Physician at SCI-Camp Hill,
that Inmate Pressley will be in imminent danger of the loss of life or other
irreparable harm unless he eats. (See Affidavit of Dr. Underwood attached
hereto as Exhibit "A").
14. It is impossible to predict the exact point at which Mr. Pressley's condition
may result in immediate, severe, and irreparable harm.
15. Mr. Pressley will die or suffer immediate and severe irreparable harm if he
continues to refuse nutrition and hydration.
16. Permitting Inmate Pressley to engage in a suicidal act by refusing to eat will
cause a significant disruption to the orderly administration of SCI-Camp
Hill. The effects of his death would demoralize the staff and instill the belief
in the inmate population that the prison administration caused and permitted
Inmate Pressley's death. This will lead to animosity toward the staff and
undermine confidence in prison authority.
WHEREFORE, based on the foregoing, the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, Department of Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp
Hill, requests this Court to enter an Order:
(a) Authorizing the Plaintiff or Plaintiff's designee to involuntarily
examine and perform invasive diagnostic tests, including blood and
urine tests, and an electrocardiogram, on Defendant and to administer
medical treatment, including nutrition and hydration as may, in the
opinion of medical staff, be necessary to preserve Defendant's health
and life.
(b) Providing such other relief as this Court deems proper.
Respectfully submitted,
Office of General Counsel
BY:
eron R. Per
Assistant Counsel
Department of Corrections
55 Utley Drive
Camp Hill, PA 17011
(717) 731-0444
Attorney ID No. 200935
Date: November 22, 2005
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION No.
CAMP HILL,
Civil Action - Equity
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
VERIFICATION
I, Dr. David C. Underwood, am a staff physician at the State
Correctional Institution at Camp Hill and am authorized to make this
verification. I have reviewed the attached Complaint with respect to the
involuntary treatment of Shawn Pressley.
I hereby verify that the allegations contained in the attached
Complaint are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and
belief. I make this verification subject to the penalties under 18 Pa.C.S. §
4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Dated:
Dr. David C. Underwood
Staff Physician
SCI-Camp Hill
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION No.
CAMP HILL,
Civil Action - Equity
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
PROOF OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the Complaint was served on
the person and in the manner indicated below:
Personal service
by hand-delivery
Shawn Pressley, CG-4129
SCI-Camp Hill
2500 Lisburn Road, P.O. Box 8837
Camp Hill, PA 17001-88371
T'?2z z
Richard L. Southers
Special Management Unit Manager
SCI-Camp Hill
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION No.
CAMP HILL,
Civil Action - Equity
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
UNSWORN AFFIDAVIT
I, Doctor David C. Underwood, state the following:
I. I am a doctor of osteopathy licensed to practice medicine in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I am currently a staff physician
at the State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill ("SCI-Camp
Hill").
2. I am familiar with Shawn Pressley ("Pressley"), who is an inmate
at SCI-Camp Hill.
3. Since October 25, 2005, Mr. Pressley has refused to eat his
meals.
4. As of Tuesday, November 22, 2005, Mr. Pressley missed more
than 75 meals.
5. Mr. Pressley engaged in at least three other hunger strikes, the
last ofwhich ended approximately six months ago. None of his
previous strikes lasted as long as his current strike.
6. Mr. Pressley has expressed no reason for this hunger strike.
7. During the last week, Mr. Pressley refused to be medically
examined or weighed by staff at SCI Camp Hill.
8. By denying staff access to test results, we are unable to
determine the specific damage to his body or the immediate
threat to his life.
9. On February 6, 2005, Mr. Pressley weighed 206 pounds. On
November 11, 2005 (the last time Mr. Pressley allowed himself
to be weighed), Mr. Pressley weighed 156 pounds.
10. It is impossible to predict the exact point at which Mr. Pressley's
condition may result in immediate, severe, and irreparable harm.
11. Mr. Pressley will die or suffer other immediate and severe
irreparable harm if he continues to refuse nutrition and
hydration.
12. It is my opinion that Inmate Pressley will be in imminent danger
of the loss of life or other irreparable harm unless he eats.
I understand that this statement is made subject to the penalties
of 18 Pa.C.S. § 4904, relating to unswom falsification to
Dated: i/ maw
Dr. David C. U
Staff Physician
SCI-Camp Hill
,l_?t/
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
AT CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
:No. _ Civil Action Equity
Defendant
PROOF OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the Unsworn Affidavit was
served on the person and in the manner indicated below:
Personal service
by hand-delivery
Shawn Pressley, CG-4129
SCI-Camp Hill
2500 Lisburn Road, P.O. Box 8837
Camp Hill, PA 17001-88371
V LV-4j-
Richard L. Southers
Special Management Unit Manager
State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION No.
CAMP HILL,
Civil Action - Equity
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
APPLICATION FOR EX PARTE PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION
Pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1531, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Department of Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill, petitions
this Honorable Court to issue an order ex parte granting the concurrently filed
Motion for a Preliminary injunction pending a hearing because of the following:
1. Plaintiffs Complaint and Motion for Preliminary Injunction in this matter
are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.
2. Defendant will suffer irreparable harm, possibly resulting in death, if the
relief sought is not immediately granted.
3. Immediate relief, as requested, is necessary to sustain the life and health of
the Defendant pending the adjudication of this matter.
4. WHEREFORE, Plaintiff requests this Court to ex parte order a preliminary
injunction permitting Plaintiff or Plaintiffs designee, to involuntarily
examine and perform invasive diagnostic tests, including blood and urine
tests, and an electrocardiogram, on Defendant and to administer medical
treatment, including nutrition and hydration as may, in the opinion of
medical staff, be necessary to preserve Defendant's health and life pending
the adjudication of this matter.
Respectfully submitted,
Assistant Counsel
Department of Corrections
55 Utley Drive
Camp Hill, PA 17011
(717) 731-0444
Attorney ID No. 200935
Office ofGneral Counsel
BY:
heron R. Pel z
Date: November 22, 2005
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION No.
CAMP HILL, :
Civil Action - Equity
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
PROOF OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the Application for Ex Parte
Preliminary Injunction was served on the person and in the manner indicated
below:
Personal service
by hand-delivery
Shawn Pressley, CG-4129
SCI-Camp Hill
2500 Lisburn Road, P.O. Box 8837
Camp Hill, PA 17001-88371
-4z z x?
Richard L. Southers
Special Management Unit Manager
SCI-Camp Hill
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
No.
Civil Action - Equity
MOTION FOR PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION
1. Plaintiffs Complaint in this matter is incorporated by reference as if fully set
forth herein.
2. Defendant will suffer immediate, severe, and irreparable harm possibly
resulting in death if ongoing, involuntary medical treatment, including
nutrition and hydration, are not permitted.
3. Based upon the facts set forth in the Complaint and in Plaintiffs
concurrently filed Application for Ex Parte Preliminary Injunction, Plaintiff
has a clear right to administer ongoing involuntary medical treatment,
including nutrition and hydration. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Department of Public Welfare, Farview State Hospital v. Joseph Kallinger,
134 Pa. Cmwlth. 415, 580 A.2d 997 (1990).
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff requests this Court to enter a preliminary
injunction permitting Plaintiff to involuntarily examine and perform invasive
diagnostic tests, including blood and urine tests, and an electrocardiogram, on
Defendant and to administer medical treatment, including nutrition and
hydration, as may, in the opinion of medical staff, be necessary, to preserve
Defendant's health and life.
Respectfully submitted,
Office of General Counsel
BY:
heron R. Pe z
Assistant Counsel
Department of Corrections
55 Utley Drive
Camp Hill, PA 17011
(717) 731-0444
Attorney ID No. 200935
Date: November 22, 2005
LEXSEE 580 a.2d 887
COMMONWEALTH of Pennsylvania, DEPARTMENT OF
PUBLIC WELFARE, FARVIEW STATE HOSPITAL, Petitioner,
v. Joseph KALLINGER, Respondent
No. 239 Misc. Dkt. 1990
Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania
134 Pa. Commw. 415; 580 A.2d 887; 1990 Pa. Commw. LEXIS
501
July 18, 1990, Heard
August 14,1990, Decided
SUBSEQUENT HISTORY:
I***I]
Publication Ordered September 10, 1990.
CASE SUMMARY
PROCEDURAL POSTURE: Petitioner commonwealth filed a request seeking a declaratory
judgment authorizing the involuntary administration of necessary nutrition and medical treatment
to preserve the health and safety of respondent prisoner, who sought to starve himself to death.
OVERVIEW: Petitioner commonwealth, through its department of public welfare, filed a
request seeking a declaratory judgment to force respondent prisoner to involuntarily receive food
through a nasogastric tube and other medical treatment. The trial court determined that the
prisoner was competent and could reject nutrition and hydration. Petitioner appealed, offering
evidence that if respondent was allowed to starve to death, major negative repercussions on the
prison and mental health systems would result. Recognizing that prisoners' rights were extremely
limited because of the unique nature of prison custody, the court granted petitioners' request, and
authorized involuntary administration of necessary medical treatment. The court concluded that
petitioner had an overwhelming interest in maintaining prison security, order, and discipline, as
well as preserving life and preventing suicide.
OUTCOME: The court granted petitioner commonwealth's request for declaratory relief, and
authorized the involuntary administration of nutrition and medical treatment to preserve the
health of respondent prisoner; petitioner had an overwhelming interest in the orderly
administration of its prison system.
CORE TERMS: prisoner, nutrition, medical treatment, prison, suicide, patient, starve, staff,
nasogastric tube, right to privacy, die, prison system, human life, preserving, inmate, medical
care, psychiatric, discipline, hydration, sentence, custody, right of privacy, preservation, prison
security, involuntary, feeding, suffering, convict, orderly, duty
CORE CONCEPTS
Criminal Law & Procedure : Postconviction Proceedings : Imprisonment & Prisoner Rights
Maintaining institutional security and preserving internal order and discipline are essential goals
that may require limitation or retraction of the detained constitutional rights of convicted
prisoners.
Criminal Law & Procedure : Postconviction Proceedings : Imprisonment & Prisoner Rights
Prison officials are given a wide range of discretion in the promulgation and enforcement of
rules to govern the prison community in order to maintain security, order and discipline.
Individual freedoms may be curtailed whenever prison officials, in exercise of their informed
discretion, reasonably conclude that their exercise possesses the likelihood of disrupting prison
order or stability or otherwise interfering with the legitimate penological objectives of the prison
environment.
Criminal Law & Procedure : Postconviction Proceedings : Imprisonment & Prisoner Rights
Compelled nutrition and medical treatment is proper because of the strong state interest in
orderly prison administration outweighs any convict's residual rights.
Criminal Law & Procedure : Postconviction Proceedings : Imprisonment & Prisoner Rights
The obligation of the commonwealth to provide for the health and safety of the inmates in their
custody is derived from two very important interests: the preservation of human life and the
prevention of suicide. The preservation of human life is of great interest to the state.
Criminal Law & Procedure : Postconviction Proceedings : Imprisonment & Prisoner Rights
The commonwealth has a duty under the Eighth Amendment to protect the health and welfare of
those persons in its custody, and may be cast in civil damages for its failure to observe such duty.
Furthermore, the commonwealth has a duty to provide appropriate medical treatment to reduce
the danger that an inmate suffering from a serious mental disorder represents to himself or
others.
Constitutional Law : Substantive Due Process : Privacy
American law has always accorded the state the power to prevent, by force if necessary, suicide -
- including suicide by refusing to take appropriate measures necessary to preserve one's life.
COUNSEL:
Thomas Blazusiak, with him, Howard Ulan, Asst. Counsel, and John A. Kane, Chief
Counsel, for petitioner.
Jeffrey J. Wander, Honesdale, for respondent.
David Ferleger, Philadelphia, Guardian Ad Litem, for Joseph Kallinger.
JUDGES:
Pellegrini, Judge.
OPINIONBY:
PELLEGRINI
OPINION:
ORIGINAL JURISDICTION
1*4161 [**888] The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Public Welfare,
(Department), Farview State Hospital (Farview), files this Request for Special Emergency Relief
asking this Court for a Declaratory Judgment authorizing the involuntary administration of
necessary nutrition and medical [*417] treatment in order to preserve the safety, health and life
of Joseph Kallinger (Kallinger).
We are called upon to decide a sensitive matter which is without precedent in this
Commonwealth. Joseph Kallinger wants to starve himself to death. nl The Department, who has
custody, wants to force him to involuntarily receive food through a nasogastric tube and other
medical treatment. We must decide if the Department has such right.
nl Kallinger, a convicted murderer, is currently serving two consecutive life sentences
consecutively with a thirty to eighty year sentence in Pennsylvania. He also must serve a
life sentence and a forty-two to fifty-two year sentence in New Jersey. He also must serve
other sentences which are too numerous to mention. Needless to say, Joseph Kallinger
will spend the rest of his natural life behind bars.
[***21
The current dilemma developed after Kallinger was recently readmitted to Farview on May
17, 1990, from the State Correctional Institution at Huntingdon (Huntingdon). n2 On June 22,
1990, he stated, as a result of his vision of Christ in a toilet bowl telling him to join him, that he
would refuse to eat or drink, and that he desires to "meet his maker." He has also refused
treatment for an abscess on his foot. On June 30, 1990, Kallinger agreed to be transferred to
Wayne Memorial Hospital in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, in order to have intravenous fluids,
including antibiotics, administered to him. However, he continued in his refusal to accept
nutrition and other medical treatment.
n2 Kallinger began serving his Pennsylvania sentences at Huntingdon following his
convictions in 1976. However, in 1977, he was committed to Farview where he stayed for
over ten years, until 1988. Since 1988, he was recommitted once for a short period of time
and then returned to Huntingdon. This recent recommittment was his second since
returning to Huntingdon. His current recommittment is scheduled to expire on August 17,
1990.
[***31
On July 3, 1990, the Department filed an action for Declaratory Relief in the Court 1**8891
of Common Pleas of Wayne County, seeking authority to provide necessary treatment, nutrition
and hydration to Kallinger. On that day, the trial court entered a preliminary order permitting the
Department to do so. However, on July 10, 1990, after holding a hearing on the matter, the trial
court dissolved its preliminary order and determined that Kallinger was competent [*4181 and
could reject nutrition and hydration necessary to preserve his health, safety and life.
The Department filed a Petition For Review seeking Special Emergency Relief pursuant to
the original jurisdiction of this Court, and seeking review of the trial court's Order pursuant to
our appellate jurisdiction. Sections 761 and 762 of the Judicial Code, 42 Pa.. S. § § 761, 762.
n3
n3 By order dated July 13, 1990, this Court directed that the Petition For Review shall
be regarded as a Complaint In Equity directed to our original jurisdiction, and that the
appeal from the trial court's Order shall be dismissed without prejudice.
[***41
On July 13, 1990, this Court granted the Department's request for a preliminary injunction,
ordering that Kallinger may be involuntarily administered medical treatment, nutrition and
hydration, pending further adjudication. On July 18, 1990, following a hearing, a second Order
was issued continuing the involuntary medication and feeding of Kallinger pending final
adjudication of this matter.
The Department offered testimony and evidence that if Kallinger is allowed to starve to
death, this would have major negative repercussions on the prison and mental health systems;
that Kallinger's death would have adverse effects on other patients, their families and the staff of
the mental hospital; and other patients may also "copy-cat" Kallinger's actions.
Kallinger contends that despite such adverse repercussions to the Commonwealth, he should
be allowed to die if he so chooses. He argues that his right to privacy overrides any interests of
the Commonwealth because the use of a nasogastric tube to feed him is an overly intrusive
procedure which could last a number of years.
We note at the outset that Kallinger is committed to Farview, a mental hospital for the
criminally insane. He suffers [***51 from a serious mental illness, diagnosed by Mokarram
Jafri, M.D., as a Borderline Personality Disorder. (Notes of Testimony (N.T.), July 10, 1990, p.
35; July 18, 1990, pp. 27-29). However, he is competent in the sense that he fully understands
his decision and realizes that 1*4191 death will result if he continues to refuse nutrition and
medical treatment. (N.T. July 10, 1990, pp. 36, 70-71).
We also recognize that Kallinger, through this action, may be attempting to manipulate the
system in order to stay at Farview rather than return to Huntingdon. His authorization of his
attorneys to enter appearances on his behalf -- one to say that he has the right to die, the other to
say the state had an obligation to make him stay alive -- is certainly part of that manipulation.
Although Kallinger has in the past and is now manipulating the system in which he finds
himself, if the Department is not allowed to involuntarily provide him with nutrition and medical
care, we assume that Kallinger will indeed starve himself to death.
While Kallinger is sufficiently competent to make a decision to starve himself to death, this
is not a "right to die" case in the usual sense. There has been [***61 much public debate and
court activity over whether such a right exists and in what circumstances it exists, and these
cases involve decisions made by enfranchised citizens or someone acting on their behalf, that
their substantial rights of privacy allows them to make that decision. See e.g., Cruzan v.
Director, Missouri Department of Health, U.S. , 110 S.Ct. 2841, 1]1 L.Ed.2d 224 (1990).
Kallinger is a convict and any rights that he may have are extremely limited and severely
restricted because of the unique nature and requirements of prison custody. Bell v. Wolfish, 441
US. 520, 99 S.Ct. 1861, 60 L.Ed.2d 447 (1979); Jones v. North Carolina Prisoners' Union, 433
US 119, 97 S.Ct. 2532, 53 L.Ed2d 629 (1977); Price v. Johnston, 334 US. 266, [**8901 68
S.Ct. 1049, 92 L.Ed. 1356 (1948). What this case concerns is whether the Commonwealth's
interest in an orderly administration of the prison system is paramount over any residual right of
privacy that Kallinger has which would make it an invasion of privacy on the part of [***71 the
Commonwealth to force feed him.
The narrow issue then presented to us is whether the Commonwealth has a right to force a
competent prisoner within the Commonwealth's penal system to receive involuntary 1*4201
medical treatment and nutrition and hydration through a nasogastric feeding tube. To decide this
issue, a balancing test is employed, balancing the Commonwealth's interests against the
prisoner's remaining right to privacy. Matthews v. Eldridge, 424 U.S. 319, 96 SCt. 893, 47
L.Ed.2d 18 (1976).
Kallinger argues that his right to privacy is superior to the interests of the Commonwealth, no
matter what effect it may have on the prison system. He argues that as a prisoner, he did not give
up his right to starve himself, citing the Supreme Court of Georgia decision in Zant v. Prevatte,
248 Ga. 832, 286 SE2d 715 (1982). In that case, the Georgia court held that a competent
prisoner had a right to starve himself to death.
The court, in ruling that the state does not have the right to force medical treatment and food
on a competent prisoner, stated:
A prisoner does not relinquish his constitutional [***81 right to privacy because of his status as
a prisoner. The state has no power to monitor this man's physical condition against his will;
neither does it have the right to feed him to prevent his death from starvation if that is his wish
.... The state can incarcerate one who has violated the law and, in certain circumstances, even
take his life. But it has no right to destroy a person's will by frustrating his attempt to die if
necessary to make a point.
Zuni, 248 Ga. at 833-834, 286 S.E.2d at 716-717.
Kallinger further argues that the procedure for forcing nutrition and hydration into him is
overly intrusive. The procedure which the Department has been and wishes to continue using is
a nasogastric tube which is inserted through the nose into the stomach. This tube will remain in
his body and will have to be frequently removed and replaced. Kallinger correctly points out
that there are several risks involved in this procedure, including internal bleeding and possibly
even death. (N.T. July 10, 1990, pp. 42-43, 56-57; July 18, 1990, p. 23).
1*4211 While admitting that there are risks to Kallinger as a result of his forced feeding, the
Commonwealth [***91 argues that its interest in prison security and discipline, the morale of
medical and custodial staff, as well as the law of this Commonwealth, far outweigh any right of
privacy that Kallinger may have. We agree.
The Commonwealth has an overwhelming interest in maintaining prison security, order and
discipline. The Supreme Court has stated that "maintaining institutional security and preserving
internal order and discipline are essential goals that may require limitation or retraction of the
detained constitutional rights of... convicted prisoners." Bell v. Wolfish, 441 U.S. at 546, 99 S.Ct.
at 1878. This lack of a reasonable expectation of privacy deprives the convicts of Fourth
Amendment rights in their prison cells. Hudson v. Palmer, 468 U.S. 517, 104 S.Cr 3194, 82
L.Ed.2d 393 (1984).
Prison officials are given a wide range of discretion in the promulgation and enforcement of
rules to govern the prison community in order to maintain security, order and discipline. Bell V.
Wolfish; Jones v. North Carolina Prisoners' Union; Pell v. Procunier, 417 US. 817, 94 S.Ct.
2800, 41 L.Ed.2d 495 (1974). [***10] U.S. ex rel. Silverman v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
527 FSupp. 742 (WD.Pa.1981), affd Appeal of Silverman, 707 F2d 1395 (3rd Cir.1983).
Individual freedoms may be curtailed whenever prison officials, in exercise of their informed
discretion, reasonably conclude that their exercise possesses the likelihood of disrupting prison
order or stability or otherwise interfering [**8911 with the legitimate penological objectives of
the prison environment. St. Clair v. Cuyler, 634 F2d 109 (3rd Cir.1980), rehearing denied 643
F. 2d 103 (3rd Cir.1980); See also Bell v. Wofsh; Jones v. North Carolina Prisoners Union;
Wilson v. Prasse, 325 FSupp. 9 (W.D.Pa.1971), affd 463 F2d 109 (3rd Cir.1972).
Other jurisdictions confronted with the same situation have held that compelled nutrition and
medical treatment is proper because of the strong state interest in orderly prison 1*4221
administration outweighs any convict's residual rights. In Von Holden v. Chapman, 87 A.D.2d
66, 450 NYS.2d 623 (1982), Mark David Chapman, serving a twenty year [***11] to life term
for the murder of former Beatle John Lennon, attempted to starve himself to death while in a
mental institution. The Supreme Court of New York, Appellate Division, in allowing
involuntary feeding through a nasogastric tube, found that the legitimate interest in prison
security and administration clearly included the right to prevent a prisoner's suicide.
In Commissioner of Correction v. Myers, 379 Mass. 255, 399 NE2d 452 (1979), the
Massachusetts Supreme Court allowed forced hemadialysis to a prisoner suffering a kidney
condition on the basis of maintaining prison order. The court stated that imprisonment imposed
severe limitations on the prisoner's right to privacy and bodily integrity.
In the present case, the uncontradicted testimony shows that if Kallinger would be permitted
to die, other patients at Farview would almost certainly copy the same tactic, manipulating the
system to get a change of conditions, possibly resulting in their death. (N.T. July 10, 1990, pp.
13-14, 25-26, 49; July 18, 1990, pp. 16-17, 31). Allowing a prisoner to die will cause other
patients to become angry and lose faith in the system and make treatment [***121 more
difficult; it may even spawn rioting at Farview or from prisoners at Huntingdon or other state
institutions. (N.T. July 10, 1990, pp. 13-14, 20, 26; July 18, 1990, pp. 17-20, 36). It is clear that
allowing a prisoner to starve to death while in state custody would have an unpredictable
negative effect on the security and order within the prison system.
Besides preserving order with the prison system, the Commonwealth has a strong interest in
maintaining the health of prisoners in its custody. The obligation of the Commonwealth to
provide for the health and safety of the inmates in their custody is derived from two very
important interests: the preservation of human life and the prevention of suicide. The
preservation of human life is of great interest to the state. John F Kennedy Memorial Hospital
1*4231 v. Heston, 58 N.J. 576, 279 A.2d 670 (1971). In Commonwealth v. Root, 191 Pa.Super.
238, 244, 156 A.2d 895, 900 (1959), revd. on other grds. 403 Pa. 571, 170 A.2d 310 (1961), the
Pennsylvania Superior Court stated that "[t]he policy of the law is to protect human life, even
[***13] the life of a person who wishes to destroy his own."
The Commonwealth has a duty under the Eighth Amendment to protect the health and
welfare of those persons in its custody, Youngberg v. Romeo, 457 U.S. 307, 102 S.Ct. 2452, 73
L.Ed2d 28 (1982); Estelle v. Gamble, 429 US. 97, 103, 97 SCt. 285, 290, 50 L.Ed.2d 251
(1976), and may be cast in civil damages for its failure to observe such duty, Simmons v. City of
Philadelphia, 728 F.Supp. 352 (E.D.Pa.1990); Lee v. Downs, 641 F.2d 1117 (4th Cir.1981).
Furthermore, the Commonwealth has a duty to "provid[e] appropriate medical treatment to
reduce the danger that an inmate suffering from a serious mental disorder represents to himself
or others." Washington v. Harper, 494 U.S. , , 110 SCt. 1028, 1030, 108 L.Ed.2d 178 (1990).
The United States Supreme Court in Washington v. Harper allowed the forced administration
of antipsychotic drugs to a prisoner on the basis that the state's interest in providing appropriate
medical treatment outweighed the inmate's liberty interest. [***141 The Supreme Court found
that the state has not only an interest, but an "obligation to provide prisoners with medical
treatment consistent not only with their own medical interests, but also with the [**8921 needs
of the institution." Washington v. Harper, 494 U.S. at , 110 S.Ct. at 1039.
Other courts have also considered the state's interest in the preservation of human life. In
State ex. rel. White v. Narick W. Va. , 292 S.E.2d 54 (1982), the West Virginia Supreme Court
of Appeals allowed the force feeding of an inmate who had begun a hunger strike to protest
conditions of his prison. The court found that "[a] state must preserve human life, a concern at
the very core of civilization .... West Virginia's interest in preserving life is superior to [the
prisoner's] personal privacy (severely 1*4241 modified by his incarceration)." Narick, W.Va.
at , 292 A.2d at 58. See also Commissioner of Correction v. Myers (forced hemadialysis
treatment on prisoner suffering kidney condition based on preservation of life and maintaining
prison order); Superintendent of Belchertown State School v. Saikewicz, 373 Mass. 728, 370
NE2d417(1977). [***151
The Court in Narick criticized the Georgia Supreme Court's decision in Zant by stating:
The Georgia court failed to consider compelling reasons for preserving life, not the least being
civility. What sense does it make for a state to allow a prisoner to kill himself, urging as its
justification his right-of-privacy right to refuse medical treatment for his voluntary debilitation;
and yet preserve unto itself the right to kill him, the ultimate violation of his privacy right. We
doubt that Georgia would allow him to raise his right of privacy against being put to death, as a
defense against the death penalty!
Narick, W.Va. at , 292 S.E.2d at 57.
The second related state interest is the Commonwealth's duty to prevent suicide. "American
law has always accorded the State the power to prevent, by force if necessary, suicide --
including suicide by refusing to take appropriate measures necessary to preserve one's life."
Cruzan v. Director, Missouri Department of Health, US. at , 110 S.Ct. at 2859, 111 L.Ed 2d
224 (1990). (Scalia, J. concurring).
Pennsylvania public policy strongly opposes the commission of suicide. Commonwealth v.
[***161 Root. Pennsylvania law makes it a crime to aid or solicit another person to commit
suicide. Crimes Code, 18 Pa.C.S. § 2505. A police officer also has the right to use force to
prevent a suicide from occurring. 18 Pa.C.S. § 508(d)(1). By asking the Commonwealth to
stand by and watch him die while it has custody and control over him, Kallinger is asking it to
aid and abet his suicide.
1*4251 The leading case in support of a state's duty to prevent suicide is Von Holden v.
Chapman. The Supreme Court of New York, Appellate Division, in rejecting Chapman's right to
privacy claim, held that "it is self-evident that the right of privacy does not include the right to
commit suicide .... To characterize a person's self-destructive acts as entitled to Constitutional
protection would be ludicrous." Von Holden v_ Chapman, 87 A.D.2d at 67, 450 N. Y.s2d at 625.
Since Kallinger is a patient at Farview, the Commonwealth's interest in maintaining the
integrity of the medical and psychiatric professions is also of great importance. Several courts
have held that the integrity of the medical profession is an interest which should be balanced
against [***171 a person's privacy right to refuse medical treatment or nutrition. Cruzan;
Narick; Saikewicz.
If Kallinger is allowed to starve himself to death, repercussions would be felt throughout the
medical and psychiatric professions. (N.T. July 10, 1990, pp. 19-20, 24-25, 40; July 18, 1990,
pp. 16-17). Dr. Jafri, Chief of Psychiatric Services at Farview, stated that Kallinger's death
would "have a negative impact upon the staff [in] that we could not carry out a moral and ethical
obligation of keeping a patient alive." (N.T. July 10, 1990, p. 41). Jack Wolford, M.D.,
Psychiatric Director for the Department, testified that "it would be devastating to the staff and
the staff morale if they had to allow someone to cease living, virtually by their own hand, while
under our care." (N.T. July 18, 1990, p. 10).
[**8931 Furthermore, if he is allowed to die, other patients and their families would have
serious doubts about whether the psychiatric staff is providing their patients with proper
psychiatric treatment and medical care. (N.T. July 18, 1990, pp. 26-27, 40; July 18, 1990, pp. 19,
36). Dr. Jafri testified that his death "will not encourage the confidence of their patients in our
ability to [***181 manage and take care their needs, as [well as] the moral confidence of the
public." (N.T. July 10, 1990, p. 41). Dr. Wolford stated that the patients [*4261 "would lose
trust in the system of care." (N.T. July 18, 1990, p. 17).
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has an overwhelming interest in the orderly
administration of its prison system. The Commonwealth must maintain prison security, order and
discipline. It must also fulfill its duty to provide proper medical care to the inmates, thus
preserving life and preventing suicide. These vital interests, along with the need to preserve the
integrity of the physicians and psychiatrists working within the penal system, clearly outweigh
any diminished right to privacy held by Kallinger.
Accordingly, we order that Farview can and must continue to provide appropriate nutrition
through a nasogastric tube and appropriate medical care to Joseph Kallinger so long as he
continues to refuse nutrition and medical treatment. Kallinger shall remain committed to Farview
until such time as the medical and psychiatric staff feel it's appropriate for him to return to a
State Correctional Institution.
ORDER
No. 239 Misc. Dkt. 1990
AND NOW, this [***19] 14th day of August, 1990, it is ordered that the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, Department of Public Welfare, Farview State Hospital, must provide appropriate
nutrition through a nasogastric tube and appropriate medical care to Joseph Kallinger as long as
he continues to refuse either. Joseph Kallinger's commitment to Farview State Hospital is
extended indefinitely until such time that the medical and psychiatric staff determines that such
feeding can be carried out at an appropriate State Correctional Institution.
ORDER
AND NOW, this 10th day of September, 1990, it is ordered that the opinion filed August 14,
1990 shall be [*427] designated OPINION rather than MEMORANDUM OPINION and that it
shall be reported.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION No.
CAMP HILL,
Civil Action - Equity
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
PROOF OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the Motion for Preliminary
Injunction was served on the person and in the manner indicated below:
Personal service
by hand-delivery
Shawn Pressley, CG-4129
SCI-Camp Hill
2500 Lisburn Road, P.O. Box 8837
Camp Hill, PA 17001-88371
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Richard L. Southers
Special Management Unit Manager
SCI-Camp Hill
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COMMONWEALTH OF
PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT OF
CORRECTIONS, STATE
CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
CAMP HILL,
PLAINTIFF
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
DEFENDANT
05-6020 EQUITY
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this ZZ_ day of November, 2005, IT IS ORDERED that
a hearing shall be conducted on the motion of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Department of Corrections for a preliminary injunction at 11:15 a.m., Monday,
November 28, 2005. Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire, is appointed to represent
defendant. The Department shall serve a copy of the petition for a preliminary
injunction and this order on defendant this date.
Pending the adjudication of this matter, plaintiff or plaintiffs designee, may
involuntarily examine and perform invasive diagnostic tests, including blood and urine
tests, and an electrocardiogram, on defendant but may involuntarily administer nutrition
and hydration only, if in the opinion of medical staff, be immediately necessary to
preserve defendant's life.
By the C` urt,
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Theron R. Perez, Esquire
For Plaintiff
Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
Court-appointed for Defendant
Court Administrator
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
AT CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
c>> -('0a °
No. _ Civil Action Equity
ORDER
AND NOW, this ?3day of November, 2005, the Sheriff of Cumberland
County is hereby directed to transport Shawn Pressley to Courtroom No. __? _ in
or a hearing scheduled
Cumberland County, Carlisle, PA, on / 4YIXI I • d, 966
at 11.'15 a d return him forthwith to the State Correctional Institution at Camp
Dill.
BY THE COURT
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff,
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
No. [95 -60x0
Civil Action - Equity
APPLICATION FOR EX PARTE PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION
Pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1531, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Department of Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill, petitions
this Honorable Court to issue an order ex parte granting the concurrently filed
Motion for a Preliminary Injunction pending a hearing because of the following:
1. Plaintiffs Complaint and Motion for Preliminary Injunction in this matter
are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.
2. Defendant will suffer irreparable harm, possibly resulting in death, if the
relief sought is not immediately granted.
3. Immediate relief, as requested, is necessary to sustain the life and health of
the Defendant pending the adjudication of this matter.
4. WHEREFORE, Plaintiff requests this Court to ex parte order a preliminary
injunction permitting Plaintiff or Plaintiffs designee, to involuntarily
examine and perform invasive diagnostic tests, including blood and urine
tests, and an electrocardiogram, on Defendant and to administer medical
treatment, including nutrition and hydration as may, in the opinion of
medical staff, be necessary to preserve Defendant's health and life pending
the adjudication of this matter.
Respectfully submitted,
Assistant Counsel
Department of Corrections
55 Utley Drive
Camp Hill, PA 17011
(717) 731-0444
Attorney ID No. 200935
Office of General Counsel
BY:
heron R. Pe z
Date: November 22, 2005
IN THE COURT OF COMMONPLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL DIVISION
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Dept of Corrections, State
Correctional Institution and Camp
Hill
Plaintiff
vs.
Shawn Pressley
Defendant
To Sheriff of Cumberland County
File No. 05-6020 civil
WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS
By an Act of Assembly of 1785, we command you to have the body
of Shawn Pressley before the Honorable Edgar B. Bayley Judge of our court
of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, at the Courthouse, in the city of
Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on the 28th day of November, 2005, at 11:15
o'clock, P. M. in Courtroom Number 2.
WITNESS, the Honorable Edgar B. Bayley, Judge of our said Court,
at Carlisle, this 23`d day of November, 2005.
Pr honotary-, vil Div ion
By:
Deputy
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, : IN THE COURT OF COMMON
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS, :PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION : COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff
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V. : No. 05-6058
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant : Civil Action - Equity
ANSWER TO COMPLAINT
AND NOW comes the Defendant, Shawn Pressley, by and through his attorney,
Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire, and answers Plaintiffs' Complaint as follows:
1. ADMITTED.
2. ADMITTED.
3. ADMITTED.
4. ADMITTED.
5. ADMITTED.
6. ADMITTED to the extent that Defendant missed meals on the dates averred. As to the
number of meals missed, Defendant is without sufficient information to answer this
allegation and proof of the same is demanded at trial.
7. ADMITTED.
8. ADMITTED.
9. Defendant is without sufficient information to answer this allegation and proof of the
same is demanded at trial.
10. Defendant is without sufficient information to answer this allegation and proof of the
same is demanded at trial.
11. Defendant is without sufficient information to answer this allegation and proof of the
same is demanded at trial.
12. DENIED.
13. ADMITTED to the extent that this represents the opinion of Dr. Underwood. As to
the validity and correctness of the opinion, Defendant is without sufficient information to
answer this allegation and proof of the same is demanded at trial.
14. ADMITTED.
15. Defendant is without sufficient information to answer this allegation and proof of the
same is demanded at trial.
16. DENIED.
NEW MATTER
17. Paragraphs 1-16 are hereby incorporated by reference.
18. Prior to March 2005, Defendant was granted access to, and Defendant regularly used,
showers, the yard, the regular prison library, and the prison law library.
19. In March 2005, Defendant, a Muslim, ordered a kufi, which is a piece of religious
headgear.
20. When the kufi arrived, prison officials refused to issue it to him.
21. Upon the prison's refusal to issue the kufi, Defendant wrote several request slips for
the kufi.
22. When it became apparent that the request slips were to no avail, Defendant filed a
grievance.
23. One Major Cole responded to the grievance by admitting that the headgear was
wrongfully withheld, and told Defendant to write another request slip.
24. In April, Defendant was finally issued the kufi.
25. Defendant was denied the right of wearing the kufi outside of his cell, which is
permitted by prison regulations.
26. At all times Defendant made his kufi available for searches, as per prison regulations.
27. Defendant went on a hunger strike from May 31, 2005 to July 6, 2005 after prison
officials took his kufi out of his cell and would not return it to him. The hunger strike
ended when he was given another kufi.
28. On August 11, 2005, Defendant went to a Review Committee hearing in an attempt to
air grievances with the prison. After the hearing was over, Defendant was hit and choked
by prison guards on the way back to his cell.
29. At various times from March 2005 to the present hunger strike, Defendant frequently
was not offered the opportunity to eat, sometimes receiving only one meal a day.
30. As a result of Defendant's assertiveness and failure to sleep on his rights, Defendant
has been the victim of consistent harassment by prison officials, including but not limited
to:
(a) Not being allowed to use the yard.
(b) Not being allowed to shower.
(c) Not being allowed to use the regular library.
(d) Not being allowed to use the law library.
(e) Not being offered meals.
WHEREFORE, based on the foregoing, the Defendant requests this Court enter
an Order:
(a) Immediately directing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of
Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill to make available to the
Defendant all appropriate rights and privileges regarding showering, use of the yard, use
of the regular prison library, and use of the prison law library.
(b) Immediately directing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of
Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill to offer the Defendant all
appropriate meals.
(c) Immediately directing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of
Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill to refrain from withholding of
rights and privileges in a purely retaliatory manner.
(d) Immediately directing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of
Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill to refrain from hitting or choking
the Defendant in a retaliatory manner.
(e) Awarding attorney's fees to Cumberland County.
(f) Providing other relief as this Court may deem proper.
Respectfully Submitted,
11jukos *Gt( /hi.
Date Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
Turo Law Offices
28 South Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Supreme Court I.D. No. 92977
(717) 245-9688
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VERIFICATION
I, Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire, attorney for the Defendant herein, have
sufficient knowledge of the facts contained in this Answer to Complaint and verify that
the statements made in the foregoing Answer to Complaint are true and correct to the best
of my knowledge, based upon information received from the Defendant. I understand
that false statements herein made are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.A. §4904
relating to unswom falsification to authorities. A verification executed by the Defendant
will be filed of record as soon as it becomes available.
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Date
Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
Turo Law Offices
28 South Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Supreme Court I.D. No. 92977
(717) 245-9688
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire hereby certify that I served a true and correct
copy of the Answer to Petition, by depositing same in the United States Mail, first class,
postage pre-paid on the 28 t? day of NaJAW , 2005, from Carlisle,
Pennsylvania, addressed as follows:
Theron R. Perez
Assistant Counsel
Department of Corrections
55 Utley Drive
Camp Hill, PA 17011
TURO LAW OFFICES,
4644t /;11
Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
Turo Law Offices
28 South Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Supreme Court I.D. No. 92977
(717) 245-9688
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA,
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON
PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
6020
No. 05-604
Civil Action - Equity
ANSWER TO MOTION FOR PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION
AND NOW comes the Defendant, Shawn Pressley, by and through his attorney,
Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire, and answers Plaintiffs' Motion for Preliminary
Injunction as follows:
1. ADMITTED to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint is incorporated by reference. By
way of further answer, Defendant incorporates by reference all Answers to the
Complaint, the New Matter, and Prayer for Relief.
2. Defendant is without sufficient information to answer this allegation and proof of the
same is demanded at trial.
3. DENIED.
WHEREFORE, based on the foregoing, the Defendant requests this Court enter
an Order:
(a) Immediately directing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of
Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill to make available to the
Defendant all appropriate rights and privileges regarding showering, use of the yard, use
of the regular prison library, and use of the prison law library.
(b) Immediately directing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of
Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill to offer the Defendant all
appropriate meals.
(c) Immediately directing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of
Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill to refrain from withholding of
rights and privileges in a purely retaliatory manner.
(d) Immediately directing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of
Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill to refrain from hitting or choking
the Defendant in a retaliatory manner.
(e) Awarding attorney's fees to Cumberland County.
Respectfully Submitted,
1I to or /';V ti'
Date Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
Turo Law Offices
28 South Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Supreme Court I.D. No. 92977
(717) 245-9688
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VERIFICATION
I, Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire, attorney for the Defendant herein, have
sufficient knowledge of the facts contained in this Answer to Complaint and verify that
the statements made in the foregoing Answer to Complaint are true and correct to the best
of my knowledge, based upon information received from the Defendant. I understand
that false statements herein made are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.A. §4904
relating to unworn falsification to authorities. A verification executed by the Defendant
will be filed of record as soon as it becomes available.
Date rI T InIbi
- ?
Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
Turo Law Offices
28 South Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Supreme Court I.D. No. 92977
(717) 245-9688
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire hereby certify that I served a true and correct
copy of the Answer to Petition, by depositing same in the United States Mail, first class,
postage pre-paid on the 191" - day of WIk e1 , 2005, from Carlisle,
Pennsylvania, addressed as follows:
Theron R. Perez
Assistant Counsel
Department of Corrections
55 Utley Drive
Camp Hill, PA 17011
TURO LAW OFFICES,
Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
Turo Law Offices
28 South Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Supreme Court I.D. No. 92977
(717) 245-9688
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COMMONWEALTH OF
PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT
OF CORRECTIONS, STATE
CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY
('40
No. 05-69-f<1@EQUITY TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 28th day of November, 2005, this matter
having been called on petition of the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, Department of Corrections for the issuance of an
injunction, and the parties having agreed to the entry of the
following order, it is ordered that the petition of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Corrections, State
Correctional Institution at Camp Hill for an injunction against
respondent, Shawn Pressley, is granted.
Petitioner or its designee may involuntarily examine
and perform invasive diagnostic tests, including blood and urine
tests, and an electrocardiogram, on respondent and may
administer medical treatment, including nutrition and hydration
as may, in the opinion of the medical staff, be necessary to
preserve respondent's health and life.
Petitioner shall make available to respondent all
privileges regarding showering, use of the yard, meals, use of
the regular prison library, and use of the SMU mini aw library,
as per the inmate handbook for the Special- ag8'raent Unit.
By the
YVV l
r b. Bayley,
Theron R. Perez, Esquire
For Department of Corrections
Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
For Defendant
Sheriff
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COMMONWEALTH OF
PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT
OF CORRECTIONS, STATE
CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff
V.
IN THECOURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant NO. 05 - 6020 EQUITY TERM
PETITION FOR PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
1. Petitioner is the Defendant in the above-captioned matter.
2. Petitioner is represented by court-appointed counsel in the above-captioned
matter.
3. On November 28, 2005, the Honorable Edgar B. Bayley issued an Order of
Court which dispensed with the matter of Petitioner's hunger strike. (Exhibit
"A" is attached and incorporated herein as if fully set forth.)
4. Petitioner requires issuance of his medical records for reasons related to
Petitioner's hunger strike, which initiated this matter.
5. Petitioner has filed to obtain said medical records.
6. The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections has invoiced Petitioner in the
amount of $74.70 and will not release said records until the invoice is paid.
(Exhibits "B" and "C" are attached and incorporated herein as if fully set forth.)
7. Petitioner has been transferred and is now incarcerated at SCI-Mahanoy in
Frackville, Pennsylvania.
8. The Honorable Edgar B. Bayley is currently assigned to this matter.
WHEREFORE, Petitioner respectfully requests this Honorable Court to order
the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections at SCI-Mahanoy to release Petitioner's
medical records to Petitioner without requirement of remuneration.
Respectfully submitted,
TURO LAW OFFICES
Lor' A "ew Snyder, Esq.
2 S th Pitt Street
C rlisle, PA 17013
(717) 245-9688
Fax 717.245.2165
Counsel for Petitioner
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I served a true and correct copy of the Petition for Payment
Assistance upon Theron R. Perez, Esq., and the State Correctional Institution at
Mahanoy by depositing the same in the United States Mail, first class, postage pre-paid
on the fifteenth day of January, 2008, from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, addressed as
follows:
Theron R. Perez, Esq.
SCI Camp Hill
2500 Lisburn Road
Camp Hill, PA 17001
SCI Mahanoy
301 Morea Road
Frackville, PA 17932
(717) 245-9688
Fax 717.245.2165
Counsel for Petitioner
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COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
STATE CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION AT MAHANOY
301 Morea Road
Frackville, PA 17932
(570) 773-2158
December 13, 2007
Turo Law Offices
Attn: Michael M. Jerominski, Esquire
28 South Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
RE: Information Request
Sean Pressley
Commonwealth v. Pressley, 05-6020 Cumberland County
Dear Mr. Jerominski:
I am in receipt of your request for copies of medical records pertaining to Sean Pressley, inmate
number CG4129. The Department of Corrections follows the Medical Record Act (Act 26) fee
schedule for copies of medical records. Enclosed you will find an invoice requesting payment. Once
payment is received the copies will be mailed directly to you. If you have any questions or concerns
please feel free to contact me at 570-773-2158 at extension 477.
Sincerely, J/J
Carey Rit o, RHIA
CC: file
Enclosure
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
STD-152 REV. 10-02
GENERAL INVOICE INVOICE NO.
071212MR-MAH
PAYOR (NAME AND ADDRESS) PAYEE (NAME AND ADDRESS) DATE
December 12, 2007
Tura Law Offices SCI Mahanoy
Michael M. Jerominski, Lsquire ORDER NO.
28 South Pitt Street 301 Morea Road
Carlisle. PA 17013 V T. NO OR ADVANCEMENT ACCOUNT NO
Frackville, PA 17932
8OD-562-9778 VENDOR FED. I_D./SOC. SEC. NO. TERMS
DATE OF ITEM AND DESCRIPTION OUAN1T Y UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT
TRANSACTION
1211212007 Photocopying of inmate medical records
Charges as per Act 26:
Inmate CG4129 Sean Pressley!
Search and Retrieval Fee 1 EA $ 18.54 $ 18.54
Charges for 51 pages 1 LOT $ 53.83 $ 53.83
Postage 1 EA $ 2.33 $ 2.33
101 33000 385
EXPENDITURE GIL ACCOUNT FUND COST CENTER
SYMBOL 6361100 1001107000 1115365502 TOTAL $ 74.70
I CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE EXPENSES. SERVICES, MATERIALS OR PRODUCTS THAT WERE ACTUALLY
INCURRED, RENDERED OR FURNISHED FOR THE USE OF THE NTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE FOLLOWING IS REOURED IF PAYMENT IS
AND TRAT THE ABOVE PRICES CHARGED WERE FAIR AND REASONABLE. MADE FROM ADVANCED REWSITION MONEYS.
I HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT IN FULL AS SET FORTH IN THIS INVOICE
IN THE AMOUNT OF $
SIGNATUR SIGNATURE
T. M. Kuzo, Budget Analyst, SCI-Mahan 3-2158 x410
D
? A .
UAN 16 2008
COMMONWEALTH OF IN THECOURT OF COMMON PLEAS
PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
OF CORRECTIONS, STATE PENSYLVANIA
CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
CAMP HILL,
Plaintiff
CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY
V.
SHAWN PRESSLEY,
Defendant NO. 05 - 6020 EQUITY TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this day of , 2008, upon review of the
attached petition, it is hereby ORDERED that the medical records of Petitioner Shawn
Pressley shall be released by SCI-Mahanoy to Petitioner without remuneration of costs
or fees.
By the Court,
J.
c.c. Lorin A. Snyder, Esq.
SCI-Mahanoy, 301 Morea Rd., Frackville, PA 17932
Theron R. Perez, Esq.
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