Reports of Human Rights Violations at SCI Fayette-2006-2008 -Physical/Mental Abuse, Medical Neglect, Denial of Due Process, racism, etc.- This information was reported to the Human Rights Coalition by way of letters, grievances, and lawsuits sent by people incarcerated at SCI Fayette and their families. Human Rights Coalition FedUp! Chapter 5125 Penn Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15224 phone - 412- 361-3022 xt. 4 email - [email protected]The following information is organized chronologically --Please note that some of these reports go into detail of physical abuse and may be upsetting— Date of Inciden t Date Reported Name, #, Location of Person(s ) Staff Involved Type of Abuse Description Incident Grievance Filed? Prejudice ? October 10, 2006 Michael Edwards #CM8086 SCI Fayette Patsy Moss, Darlene Linderman Denial of Due Process Deprivation of mail rights Patsy Moss, mail room staff, was instructed by her supervisor Darlene Linderman to Unknown No 1
Transcript
Reports of Human Rights Violationsat SCI Fayette-2006-2008
-Physical/Mental Abuse, Medical Neglect, Denial of Due Process, racism, etc.-
This information was reported to the Human Rights Coalition by way ofletters, grievances, and lawsuits sent by people incarcerated at SCI Fayette and their families.
Human Rights Coalition FedUp! Chapter 5125 Penn Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15224 phone - 412-361-3022 xt. 4 email - [email protected]
The following information is organized chronologically --Please note that some of these reports go into detail of physical abuse and may be upsetting—
Date of Incident
Date Reported
Name, #, Location of Person(s)
Staff Involved Type of Abuse Description Incident
Gri
evan
ceF
iled
? Pre
jud
ice?
October 10, 2006
Michael Edwards #CM8086SCI Fayette
Patsy Moss, Darlene Linderman
Denial of Due Process Deprivation of mail rights
Patsy Moss, mail room staff, was instructed by her supervisor Darlene Linderman to permit guards to have access to prisoners’ outgoing mail. Mr. Edwards had legal mail of his to a civil judge’s clerk of courts and the state Attorney General stolen as a result.
Eric Ryan #DD8176, entire prison populationSCI Fayette
Unnamed, high officials implicated
Medical Eric Ryan submitted a sworn declaration, stating that “there were dead remains of birds/rats/bats in the ventilation system, and large amounts of black in color mold in the shower areas;” feces in and on the ventilation in his cell; that all institutional grievance procedures have been exhausted regarding the epidemic of Hepatitis-C; and that the maintenance department and inmate tray room workers have been exposed to a deadly toxic air-borne mold, contaminating all the food trays and eating utensinls.
Yes No
2
November 2, 2006
Joseph Jander #ET8324SCI Fayette
Unnamed Medical Mr. Jander filed a sworn declaration stating that prison officials were attempting to force him to double-cell despite his having hepatitis-c.
Unknown No
November 21, 2006
Michael Edwards #CM8086SCI Fayette
Lt. George Reposky
Denial of due process, psychological
Lt. George Reposky demanded that Mr. Edwards turn over legal documents pertaining to a lawsuit of his, and then threatened to kill the prisoner while using racist slurs.
Unknown Yes
November 30, 2006
Ricardo Kenney #FY9574SCI Fayette
Unknown Medical Ricardo Kenney found worms in his food tray on this day.
Unknown No
January 7, 2007
Takay Taylor #FN4640SCI Fayette
C/O BlissLT. Tustin
Physical,Verbal
C/O Bliss placed a headphone extension cord around the prisoner’s neck and “pulled on the cord like he was hanging/lynching” him. When told by Taylor that his actions were disrespectful Bliss responded “who cares if it was
Unknown Yesrace
3
disrespectful nigger!” Since that time Taylor has been given fraudulent charges in retaliation. Prison officials admit that this did happen, and that Lt. Tustin intervened and sent Bliss away, although no further disciplinary action was taken.
January 9, 2007
Michael Edwards #CM8086SCI Fayette
Lt. Giddens Denial of due process, deprivation of property
In an effort to destroy legal materials Lt. Giddens came to Mr. Edwards cell and confiscated and destroyed personal property of the inmate’s.
Guards Friend and Collins pressured Mr. Edwards to drop his lawsuit in the presence of Sgt. Ruvo. When the prisoner refused Friend pulled three photographs of lynched black people from his shirt and tossed them into the inmate’s cell. In
Yes Yes
4
the following days and weeks Lts. Reposky and Crumb, C/Os Bane, Farley, Caldwell, Collins, Friend, and Sgt. Ruvo all requested that the prisoner return the pictures. This incident was verified a year later by Mr. Edwards former counselor Yvonne Driver via telephone.
January 19, 2007
Michael Edwards #CM8086SCI Fayette
Lt. Reposky Denial of due process, deprivation of property
Lt. Reposky came to the law library and stole property from Mr. Edwards. Reposky then ordered the Block Sergeant to remove 4 law books, 2 packs of carbon papers, all typing papers, attorney motions, and other legal documents from Edwards’ cell.
Unknown No
January 23, 2007
Michael Edwards #CM8086SCI Fayette
C/O Debolt Psychological/death threat, denial of due process
In a motion to withdrawal a civil action lawsuit Mr. Edwards cites fears for his life as primary cause. A
Unknown Yes
5
pattern of racist intimidation has been documented by the prisoner, including an incident on this day in which C/O Debolt came to his cell this day and showed him a KKK newsletter from western PA showing 4 blacks hanging from a tree, stating that, “If it was up to us we would still be hanging you niggers by trees.”
January 31, 2007
Robert Williams #BH8660SCI Fayette
Unnamed Medical Mr. Williams submitted a sworn declaration stating that he was forced to cell with a prisoner, Cleveland Green, known to have both HIV and Hepatitis-c, and that Green’s counselor and unit manager instructed him to keep his illnesses secret from Mr. Williams. The prisoner also swears that maintenance department and tray room workers have been exposed to
Unknown
6
deadly toxic air-borne mold, and that all trays and utensils have been contaminated.
March 9, 2007
Jorge Rodriguez #FG2456SCI Fayette
Staff Counselor Debra DavisonUnit Manager Carl Walker
Physical Mr. Rodriguez filed a declaration stating that his counselor, Debra Davison and unit manager, Carl Walker, incited him to assault his cellmate in order to re-obtain his Z-code, single-cell status. Mr. Rodriguez assaulted his cellmate, did 180 days in the hole, and had his Z-code status reinstated.
Unknown No
April 2, 2007
Archie Tindell #EW6464SCI Fayette
C/Os Farley, Bane, Caldwell
Denial of due process, deprivation of property
In a declaration pursuant to a civil suit Archie Tindell swore under oath of perjury that C/Os Farley, Caldwell, and Bane confiscated legal materials from his cell in violation of procedure.
Unknown No
April 10, 2007
Archie Tindell #EW6464SCI Fayette
CO/s Debolt, Gutty, Thrap
Denial of due process, deprivation of property
Mr. Tindell had legal and religious property confiscated under the pretest of
Unknown Yes
7
‘gang activity’ by C/Os Debolt, Gutty, and Thrap. Mr. Tindell is a member of the Nation of Islam.
April 14, 2007
Michael Edwards #CM8086SCI Fayette
Sgt. L.M. Ruvo Psychological/death threats, denial of due process
In a motion to withdrawal a civil action lawsuit Mr. Edwards cites fears for his life as primary cause. A pattern of racist intimidation has been documented by the prisoner, including an incident on this day in which Sgt. L.M. Ruvo came to his cell and stated, “Drop the lawsuit and complaints or you will die nigger.”
May 16, 2007
Archie Tindell #EW6464 SCI Fayette
Lt. CrumbSgt. Ruvo
Physical, deprivation of property, denial of due process
Lt. Crumb and Sgt. Ruvo entered the cell of Mr. Tindell and confiscated legal material, cosmetics, linens, and religious material. While inside the cell Lt. Crumb pulled the cuff strap on the prisoner and injured Mr. Tindell’s hands
Unknown YesReligous
8
and shoulders, causing lacerations.
May 30, 2007
December 18, 2007
Reported by Caine Pelzer
Marquise Lucas #FE0397Caine Pelzer #EZ2913SCI Fayette
C/O MackzoC/OThompson
Physical, medical, verbal,deprivations
Caine Pelzer witnessed C/O Mackzo assaulting Marquise Lucas “for no reason.” When he attempted to intervene on Mr. Lucas’ behalf, Mr. Pelzer was subdued by several guards, cuffed behind the back and beaten about the face and body with closed fists and walkie-talkies. Mr. Pelzer was then denied medical care despite severe shoulder pain, and was made to “duck walk” the 300 yards to the RHU, while the guards continued beating him upon his face, using his head as a ramming rod to open every metal door along the way, causing the prisoner to collapse and break his front tooth. Mr. Pelzer was then carried to RHU
Unknown YesRacial
9
while guards issued death threats and called him racist names. Following this incident the prisoner was housed in a hard cell for two weeks and deprived of many basic necessities.
August 2007— present
January 11, 2008
Ravanna Spencer #FH6976SCI Fayette
Unnamed, high officials and medical staff implicated
Medical,Psychological
Mr. Spencer suffers from a history of mental illness that is worsening as a result of prison authorities conduct, which substitutes solitary confinement for psychological treatment.
Unknown No
August 28, 2007
Robert Williams #FF9715SCI Fayette
C/Os Hurst, Lucas, Lowry, Nurse Ruvo
Physical Robert Williams was assaulted by 5 guards, including C/Os Hurst, Lucas and Lowry. Mr. Williams had his face slammed on a desk, his body kicked, and was hit on the head with the metal ring at the end of the restraint belt. The inmate was then take to see Nurse Sharon Ruvo, who took multiple
Unknown No
10
photographs of his injuries, which included cuts to the scalp and left thumb, a gash to the forehead, and multiple scratches on his body.
October 16, 2007
Leional Wesley #EV8546SCI Fayette
C/O Rogers Physical, Fabricated charges
Leional Wesley was called homophobic names and had his arm pulled through a wicker by C/O Rogers, causing the prisoner to bleed. Rogers then filed a fabricated charge of assault against Mr. Wesley in order to preempt any claim against himself.
Unknown Yes, Homophobia
Every Day October 22, 2007
Leional Wesley #EV8546SCI Fayette
Unnamed, high officials implicated
Systemic racism Mr. Wesley sent testimony that racism is a widespread, systemic feature of prison life at SCI Fayette. Claims include that whites are hired more often and given higher pay faster; blacks spend more time in the hole; charges are often falsified to punish black
Unknown Yes
11
inmates; blacks face increased retaliation for filing grievances.
November 19, 2007
December 18, 2007
Caine Pelzer #EZ2913SCI Fayette
C/O Joseph Mackzo
Physical,Verbal
C/O Mackzo has repeatedly assaulted or attempted to assault him since the officer has been transferred to the RHU on 11/19/07, often accompanied by death threats and racist slurs.
Unknown Yes
November 28, 2007
Reported by Leional Wesley #EV8546 & Ricardo Kenney #FY9574
Ricardo Kenney #FY9574SCI Fayette
Unknown Physical,Deprivation of water, exposure
Leional Wesley reported that multiple prison guards severely assaulted Ricardo Kenney after lunch on November 28. Mr. Kenney corroborated this story, adding that his head was repeatedly slammed into the ground, after which he was placed on restriction and repeatedly denied water and a blanket throughout the week.
Unknown No
December 4-5, 2007
Leional Wesley#EV8546SCI Fayette
Unnamed Fabricated charges, denial of exercise, bathroom, shower, education, unsanitary
Mr. Wesley has been retaliated against by staff for filing grievances
Unknown No
12
conditions protesting prior abuse. This retaliation has consisted of fabricated charges levied against the inmate; deprivation of bathroom, water, shower, exercise, law library, cell cleaning, and commissary usage.
December 7, 2007
Leional Wesley #EV8546SCI Fayette
C/O Joseph Mackzo
Physical,Verbal
Returning from a hearing, Mr. Wesley was choked by C/O Mackzo, who also issued death threats to the prisoner.
Unknown No
December 19, 2007
Michael Edwards #CM8086SCI Fayette
Dr. R. Vytko Medical, fraud Mr. Edwards’ had his name forged on a document by Dr. R. Vytko concerning ‘mental health informed consent’ in retaliation for the inmate’s refusal to withdraw his complaint concerning the three racist pictures thrown in his cell on 1/10/07.
Unknown Yes
December 26, 2007
Leional Wesley#EV8546SCI Fayette
Unnamed Deprivation of exercise, shower
Mr. Wesley was deprived both yard and shower on this day.
Unknown No
13
Every day January 3, 2008
Ricardo Kenney #FY9574SCI Fayette
Unnamed, high officials implicated
Medical,Deprivation of food, property, denial of due process, fabricated charges
Ricardo Kenney reports that prisoners at SCI Fayette live in unsanitary conditions, including being housed in cells previously inhabited by biologically contaminated inmates; prisoners are denied food arbitrarily; inmate property is taken or thrown away without cause; grievance proceedings are biased and loaded with false accusations by prison personnel against prisoners.
No No
January 4, 2008
Reported by Michael Edwards #CM8086
Anwar Woods #GL6076SCI Fayette
Unknown Physical,Medical
Michael Edwards reported that Anwar Woods was “severely beaten” by guards on this day and had been denied medical treatment for his injuries.
Unknown No
December 2007
January 7 & 28, 2008
AnonymousSCI Fayette
Several, unnamed
Physical, deprivation of property, food, clothing, unwarranted search
An anonymous letter informed that prison authorities called in CERT teams from
Unknown No
14
Fayette and SCI Greene to enforce collective punishment on inmates following a violent attack by a prisoner upon a counselor and two guards. Inmates were thrown down stairs, assaulted, put in garbage cans, subject to property theft, deprivation of food and clothing, with several being sent to the RHU. This report was sent anonymously for fear of reprisal, and confirmed by another prisoner weeks later.
January 10, 2008
Jody Gordon #GH0870 SCI Fayette
Unnamed Fabricated charges Mr. Gordon was falsely served class #1 assault and class #1 threatening an employee charges on this day for an incident occurring 12/21/07.
Unknown No
Early January, 2008
January 17, 2008 reported by Michael Edwards #CM8086
Esmith Melendez Rodriguez #GQ1366SCI Fayette
Unknown Medical,Health
Esmith Rodriguez was/has been denied medical care, including blood tests, after he bit into
Unknown No
15
a razor that was inexplicably in his food.
January 19, 2008
Reported by Leional Wesley, Paul Simmons, and Esmith Rodriguez
Esmith Melendez Rodriguez #GQ1366SCI Fayette
Lt. ReposkyC/O Galorza
Physical Multiple prisoners reported that Mr. Rodriguez was assaulted by prison guards in full riot gear after he objected to having his food spit in. Lt. Reposky and C/O Galorza were involved, with the latter holding the camera so that it would not capture staff actions. Mr. Rodriguez was attacked with chemical weapons, had his head slammed into a brick wall, and fears that he may have suffered broken ribs.
Unknown no
January 21, 2008
Reported by Paul Simmons #FH7904
William White #HE8849SCI-Fayette
C/O White Physical Paul Simmons reported that prisoner William White was assaulted by C/O White via the wrenching of handcuffs around the wrists.
Unknown No
January 2008
January 24, 2008
Maurice Stroman
Unnamed Fabricated charges Mr. Stroman was thrown in the hole
Unknown No
16
#DG2108SCI Fayette
after being falsely accused of refusal to be handcuffed and assault by spitting on an officer. The inmate claims that the charges are a ‘smoke screen’ used to justify excessive force against him.
February 8, 2008
Reported by Anyis McNeil #FG3804, Jesse Johnson #GV9783
Yokoe Kabbah #GV3101SCI-Fayette
C/O Collings, PetersonCapt. Legget
Physical On this date, prison guards Collings and Peterson brought a prisoner to the cell door of a prisoner in another pod in the hole named Yokoe Kabbah, an African immigrant.. The guards “cuffed up” Mr. Kabbah at the door, placed this young man in the cell with him, and then left them alone together for “3 to 5 minutes.” During this time the young man beat Mr. Kabbah. Since Mr. Kabbah is functionally illiterate, a grievance was filed on his behalf by another inmate, but it was
Yes Yes
17
denied by Capt. Legget on a procedural whim.
2007 February 14, 2008
Joseph Curran #GV7985SCI Fayette
Unknown Medical, Deprivation of recreation, library, shower,Fabricated charges
Joseph was victimized by a botched shoulder surgery that came undone after prison personnel violated standard procedures by checking him out of the hospital early, placing undue strain upon his shoulder, and failing to prescribe adequate medication. As a result Mr. Curran’s clavicle bone is now protruding through his flesh, and is visible to the naked eye. The prisoner reports that he has lost the use of his right arm. Joseph Curran also has been subjected to various deprivations, and the target of fabricated charges by prisone personnel.
Yes No
Every day February 14, 2008
Ernesto Layton #ED0230SCI Fayette
Unknown, high officials implicated
Medical Mr. Layton has sent documentation regarding dangerously
Unknown No
18
unsanitary conditions, including the presence of deadly air-borne toxics.
Frequently February 12,, 2008
Rasheed Nifas #CA 4950SCI Fayette
General staff, high officials implicated
Deprivation of property, fabricated charges, systemic racism
Mr. Nifas reports that prison personnel have been systematically engaging in racist discrimination and harassment, including stealing prisoners’ personal information and writing them up on false charges. The prisoner has filed several grievances and reports to the OPR.
Yes Yes
Unknown February 12, 2008
Rasheed Nifas #CA4950SCI Fayette
Unnamed Fabricated charges Mr. Nifas has been placed in permanent RHU in retaliation for the numerous grievances submitted and letters written regarding abuses in the PA DOC. The prisoner also alleges that guards planted contraband in his cell.
Yes No
February 6, 2008
Check William Burkholder
C/O Helms, Hearing Officer
Fabricated charges On this date C/O Helms entered the
Yes No
19
#BM8717 M. Cross prisoner’s cell during a search and planted a weapon. Mr. Burkholder further reports that Hearing Officer M. Cross instructed officials on record to destroy the contraband, thus preventing forensic evidence from being collected.
December 27, 2007
April 24, 2008
Robert Shields #CW5906SCI Fayette
Unnamed Fabricated charges Prior to the prisoner’s scheduled appearance before the parole board in January 2008, Robert Shields was placed in the RHU for 90 days on fabricated charges. The first charge was for refusal to obey an order and occurred five months earlier; the second was for inappropriate use of language, which was a gross exaggeration in this instance.
Unknown no
January 3, 2008 and after . . .
March 24, 2008
Bryant Davis #CU6369,Anwar
Hearing examiner Kerri Cross, C/O Zampatti
Fabricated charges; denial of due process
On January 3rd C/O Zampatti falsely charged Mr. Davis for possession of
Yes no
20
Woods #GL6076SCI Fayette
contraband (fermented wine) despite the admission by the prisoner’s cellmate, Mr. Woods, that he was the owner of the offending item. Hearing examiner Keri Cross then denied Mr. Davis his right to call Mr. Woods as a witness at his misconduct hearing on the false pretext that the witness would be irrelevant in determining the guilt or innocence of Mr. Davis. Mr. Woods confirmed these events in a Declaration Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1746; Mr. Davis described the same in a Letter of Intent to seek legal redress.
March 23, 2008
April 24, 2008
Robert Shields #CW5906SCI Fayette
Unnamed Food tampering After biting into a sandwich in the RHU Robert Shields suffered gashes on the inside of his mouth caused by a sharp object. He
Unknown No
21
was seen by medical and pictures were taken.
Ongoing May 8, 2008 Omar Sigue #HH3672SCI Fayette
Unnamed, medical personnel/dept. implicated
Medical Mr. Sigue has been denied thorazine despite a history of mental instability that has resulted in his being prescribed this in the past. HRC/Fed Up! has been given extensive documentation regarding the prisoner’s past psychological reviews.
Yes No
May 2, 2008
May 12, 2008 Richard Randall #EB4654SCI Fayette
Unnamed Denial of due process Mr. Randall was forbidden from attending a disciplinary hearing on this date, thereby denying him the opportunity to defend himself against a charge of refusal to obey an order. He was found guilty and sentenced to 45 days DCS on May 5.
Unknown no
Daily May 19, 2008 Paul Kimble #HA2057SCI Fayette
Dr. Herbic (sp?), Robert Trentinick (sp?)—head of medical dept.
Medical Mr. Kimble suffers from hepatitis-c, cirrhosis of the liver, and MRSA, the last of these being
Unknnown Yes,Life-sentence
22
contacted at SCI Rockview. After health complications involving two open heart surgeries and near-death on four occasions, Mr. Kimble was finally granted his requested transfer—but to SCI Fayette rather than Laurel Highlands. Since arriving at Fayette his condition has deteriorated as he has been taken off his regular medications, and Dr. Herbic, under instruction from medical dept. head Robert Tretnick, has consistently denied him adequate medication, inspection of MRSA-related sores, and treatment in general. Furthermore, Tretnick has discriminated against Mr. Kimble on the basis of the prisoner’s serving a
23
life sentence. Mr. Kimble asserts that there have been fourteen deaths in little over a year at Fayette, and he fears he will be the fifteenth.
April 1, 2008—present
June 10, 2008 Dennis Hinkle #HH5423SCI Fayette
Unnamed, Robert Tretinik implicated
Medical Dennis Hinkle had his leg amputated above the knee in May 2007. Since his transfer to SCI Fayette from SCI Camp Hill on April 1st his daily wound care and antiobiotic treatment has been discontinued. Consequently his wound has become infected and he is in danger of further disability.
Yes No
Spring 2008
April 25, 2008
Rasheed Nifas #CA4950SCI Fayette
C/O Sheetz Sexual Mr. Nifas has been repeatedly subjected to sexual harassment by C/O L. Sheetz, including comments directed at the prisoner such as, “Hey baby girl I want to see that dick today.”
Yes no
May 28 & 29, 2008
June 16, 2008 Michael Edwards
Lt. Lesure, C/O Collings,
Psychological/death threats, theft of
On May 28th Lt. Lesure threatened
Unknown Yes
24
#CM8086SCI Fayette-SCI Camp Hill
Edward Kalsky, Dept. Supt. Kazor, Counselor Baker, Sgt. Houser
property, unlawful transfer, denial of due process
Michael Edwards with transfer unless he signed a two-page affidavit dropping the prisoner’s grievances against C/Os Friend and Collings, who on January 10, 2007 tossed three photographs of lynched black people into Mr. Edwards cell after the prisoner refused to drop an outstanding lawsuit. After his cell was searched twice in twenty minutes and property, including legal documents, were confiscated, Mr. Edwards still refused to sign the affidavit and was promptly placed on a van to SCI Camp Hill without a prior 802 hearing.. On route C/O Collings (twin brother of the former) stated to the prisoner, “Last chance. You see
25
how easy it would be to kill you? Drop the complaints.” Upon arrival at Camp Hill mental health staff member Edward Kalsky threatened Edwards with indefinite SMU confinement unless he signed and dated aforementioned affidavit. On May 29 Mr. Edwards appeared before the PRC, and unit manager C. Chambers was handed a two-page affidavit from Dept. Supt. Kazor, who both claimed that the document was authorized by “Central Office.” The prisoner was told that if he signed and dated the affidavit he would be transferred to any prison of his choosing and placed in general population. Mr. Edwards refused to
26
sign. Currently, the prisoner still is housed in the SMU without his personal property, access to cleaning supplies, paperwork, and law library; without control over his cell lighting, which is on 24 hours a day, and he has been denied yard. On May 29 Sgt. Houser also pressured Mr. Edwards to sign the affidavit, and between 5/28/08 and 6/11/08 Edward Kalsky and counselor Phil Baker have attempted to do the same. These events were described in an affidavit sent to HRC/Fed Up! by Michael Edwards.
May 29, 2008
May 29, 2008 Trevar Morris #EK7203 SCI Fayette
C/Os Halfhill, Shieve
Physical, sexual, deprivation of water
C/O Halfhill placed a pornographic picture in Mr. Morris’s cell. When the prisoner asked to see the Lt. he was denied, so he began kicking his door in
Charges brought against prisoner
No
27
an effort to get the issue addressed. C/O Shieve cut off his water in response. Later Mr. Morris placed his arm in the tray slot during sheet exchange and 4 C/Os, led by Shieve and Halfhil, began bending, twisting, and slamming his arm in the slot. Medical took pictures.
Summer 2008
July 11, 2008 Keith Lister #FC2948 SCI Fayette
Unnamed Fabricated charges Mr. Lister has been sent to the RHU on the basis of a fabricated assault charge.
Yes No
June 6, 2008—present
July 20, 2008 Mark Napoli #DV4211 SCI Fayette
C/Os Guthrie, Tanner, Poska, Shreve
Physical; food deprivation; deprivation of provisions; fabricated charges
On June 6, 2008 Mark Napoli was assaulted by C/Os Guthrie and Tanner, who threw the inmate face first into a wall and applied severe pressure on the back of his neck while he was handcuffed. Mr. Napoli was then deprived of razors, showers, recreation, and law library for
Yes Yes, racial
28
seven days. After that the C/Os wrote a falsified misconduct against the inmate, charging him with assault. C/Os Poska and Shreve have been participating in ongoing retaliation against Mr. Napoli, including placing him on food loaf for seven days, which means starvation for a week since Mr. Napoli has Crohn’s disease and cannot digest meat. As a result the inmate has become very weak, nauseated, dizzy, suffers from blurred vision, weight loss, and malnourishment.
Spring-Summer 2008
June 10, 2008 Esmith Rodriguez #GQ1366SCI Fayette
Unnamed Mail tampering; deprivation of property; denial of due process
Esmith Rodriguez has had grievance papers and legal documents reportedly sent to him but prison personnel have withheld these without explanation or acknowledgment.
Yes No
29
June 27, 2008
June 27, 2008 Rasheed Nifas #CA4950SCI Fayette
C/O Andposik Physical, deprivation of law library
C/O Andposik placed handcuffs on Mr. Nifas so tight they pinched his skin, and denied Mr. Nifas his trip to the law library when he complained.
yes no
July 3, 2008
July 11, 2008; letter and declaration received July 9, 2008; reported by Leional Wesley #EV8546, Ravanna Spencer #FH6976; Wayne Moye #EK2361; Mark Napoli #DU4211; Shane Geser #EQ7858; Jason Maxwell #
Physical; deprivation of law library; medical; denial of due process
On July 3rd Ravanna Spencer was denied law library access in violation of DC-ADM007. When Mr. Spencer attempted to protest to Cpt. Legget, Counselor Link, and Lt. Berrier, he was assaulted by a cell extraction team consisting of Lt. Berrier, C/Os Richter, Delaney, Dongili, Poska and two unknown C/Os that was authorized by Cpt. Legget. Mr. Spencer also requested a doctor several times prior to extraction and was denied treatment (Mr. Spencer suffers from diagnosed psychological
Unknown no
30
instability). Mr. Spencer was repeatedly assaulted with chemical weapons (tear gas/pepper spray) by Lt. Berrier, punched, kicked, and beaten with a baton. Spencer was removed from his cell in t-shirt and boxer shirts with his head jammed between his legs to hide injuries from being seen. The prisoner then remained cuffed and shackled, bleeding from the wrists and ankles for over 24 hours and reportedly as long as 48.
July 21, 2008
July 30, 2008 Leional Wesley #EV8546SCI Fayette
C/O Burton Physical, deprivation of food, unsanitary conditions, deprivation of water
C/O Burton denied Mr. Wesley his milk and portions of his food. When Mr. Wesley refused to return his tray until given these items he was attacked with chemical weapons, forcibly cell extracted, and placed in a hard cell
Unknown no
31
contaminated with urine and feces, and deprived of running water. This lasted a week.
August 30-31, 2008
September 5, 2008
Rasheed Nifas #CA4950 SCI Fayette
C/Os Sheetz, Albright
Psychological; food tampering and deprivation
On August 30 C/O Sheetz told Mr. Nifas that he had spit in the inmate’s food, and on the 31 C/Os Sheetz and Albright denied Rasheed his lunch tray. Mr. Nifas claims that both officers are motivated by racist attitudes in their dealings with prisoners.
Unknown Yes, racial
September 8, 2008
September 16, 2008
Tyler Norgart #HH3155 SCI Fayette
Unnamed Psychological/racial intimidation
Mr. Norgart, who is known to staff as a practicing Jew, was given a cellmate with Nazi tattoos, including several swastikas and other anti-Semitic markings on his person. This man was eventually transferred after repeated requests by Norgart.
Yes Yes, racial
October 22, 2008
November 19, 2008 by
Tierre Davis
Lt. Vojacek; Counselor David
Sexual; deprivation of yard, showers; food
An official inmate grievance, dated
Yes, grievance
YesRace
32
Tierre Davis; November 23, 2008 by Eric Lyons #EX1127
tampering; retaliation 10/31/08, was submitted to Grievance Coordinator Rhonda House by Tierre Davis. Mr. Davis states that Lt. Vojacek threatened him when the inmate refused his sexual advances, claiming that Vojacek vowed to make Davis’ stay here “hell.” The very next day Davis was denied yard, shower, and found hair, rocks, staples, spit, and dirt in his food. Davis also claims he has been issued fabricated misconducts and called racist epithets during this time. Capt. Legget, Counselor Link, and the Unit Manager, along with others have been informed of this grievance. These conditions prompted Tierre Davis to go on a hunger strike in late October/early
form Sexual
33
November. OPR has allegedly began an investigation.
February 2003 (approx.) to Present
November 19, 2008
Tierre Davis #DY1710 SCI Fayette
Unnamed, high officials implicated
Prolonged solitary confinement
In a letter written in late November 2008 Tierre Davis indicates that he has been held in solitary confinement for 69 straight months.
Unknown
November 19, 2008
November 19, 2008 by Tierre Davis; November 23, 2008 by Eric Lyons #EX1127
Tierre Davis #DY1710 SCI Fayette
Unnamed, RHU/SMU staff implicated
Freezing temperatures Tierre writes that he is currently in a hard cell where the temperature is freezing. This is confirmed by Eric Lyons.
Unknown No
Late October to early November
November 23, 2008
Eric Lyons #EX1127 SCI Fayette
Unit Manager Gary Abrams; Capt. Legget; Supt. Coleman; Lt. Vojacek
Deprivation of food; psychological; physical; retaliation; fabricated misconducts; deprivatin/destruction of personal and legal property; denial of due process; unsanitary conditiosn
Eric Lyons went on a hunger strike in the SMU for 7 days (21 meals) for the following reasons: inadequate food portions, served cold, a result of which has been Mr. Lyons losing 23 pounds (185 to 162) in less than a few months; regular issuing of fabricated misconducts in retaliation against prisoners who file grievances; physical assaults by staff;
Yes; in possession of Mr. Lyons
Yes sexual
34
destruction of personal and legal property; sexual harassment; freezing temperatures; unsanitary conditions. Mr. Lyons states that these actions only occur on 2-10 shift when Lt. Vojacek is on duty. Vojacek reportedly manipulates inmates via the provision or denial of cigarettes, television, extra food, commissary items, and sexual favors. Unit Manager Gary Abrams, along with Capt. Legget, are complicit in these and comparable abuses, including the latter’s involvement in the theft of a dozen law books of Mr. Lyons worth approximately $2000. Superintendent Coleman also refuses to address these and other
35
inmate grievances. Early November
November 23, 2008 by Eric Lyons #EX1127
Andre Jacobs #DQ5437 SCI Fayette
Sgt. Schumpert Fabricated charges While Andre was being held at SCI Pittsburgh during a federal civil trial, Sgt. Schumpert orchestrated a cell search in which a mirror was placed in Mr. Jacobs’ cell, for which he was allegedly written up in absentia.
Unknown No
October 30 to November 3, 2008
November 20, 2008
Aaron Washington #EK4231 SCI Fayette
Unit Manager Abrams; Capt. Leggett; Grievance Coordinator; Rhonda House; Food Service Manager Patrick Wilson; Supt. Coleman; Lt. Berrier; Grievance Officer Ronald D. Hostovich
Freezing temperatures; deprivation of and inadequate quality of food; theft
On October 30, Mr. Washington and five others housed in the SMU began a hunger strike due to the freezing cold temperature on the unit and the small portions of cold food being served. Several prisoners were forced to the medical unit and charged $5.00 a piece despite refusing treatment. Four of the prisoners refused food for 13 meals until Unit Manager Abrams agreed to turn on the heat and increase food portions. To
date the heat is still not on and the food portions remain unchanged. See documentation for more details
Response Appeal #247344; Response to First Level Appeal #247344; Inmate Request to Supt. Coleman; Inmate Account Statement
October 30, 2008
December 3, 2008
Matt Young #GD4210 SCI Fayette
Unit Manager Gary Abrams
Cold temperatures; deprivation of food
After two weeks of filing requests and grievances Mr. Young, along with others, went on a hunger strike on October 30 in protest of the cold temperatures in the cells and the inadequate food portions. The strike ended when Unit Manager Abrams agreed to fix the problems. Mr. Young claims the heat was fixed in late November, and that he doubts the food problem will ever be remedied.
Yes (see above)
no
37
July 13, 2007 to present
September 2, 2008
Rasheed Nifas #CA4950 SCI Fayette
DOC Secretary Jeffrey Beard; Deputy Sec.Dave Wakefield;Former Supt. Harry Wilson;Supt. Brian Coleman; Deputy Supt. Centralized Service Daniel Burns; Supt. Centralized Service Eric Armel; Corrections Classification Program Manager/PRC member Debra Mahlmeister; Grievance Coordinator Rhonda House; Counselor David Link; Capt. Wallace Leggett; Assistant to the Deputy Sec. Samuel Popovich; Lt. of Security Daniel Hooper; Administrative Officer Mary Kushner; former
Retaliation; denial of free exercise of religion; denial of access to the courts; denial of due process; wrongful confinement; denial of equal protection; cruel and unusual punishment
In a Civil Action filed in U.S. Court Western District of PA (#08-0834) Rasheed Nifas details the following violations of his constitutional rights by the current and former DOC staff listed herein.
Theft and destruction of legal property; obstruction of justice; denial of due process
Mr. Robinson has submitted a chronology of violations perpetrated against him by Fayette staff, originating with the theft and destruction of civil litigation documents. When he filed grievances over the fact that his documents were never received by those he attempted to mail them to, he was issued a retaliatory misconduct.
Official Inmate Grievance #236235; Grievance Appeal #236235; Inmates Request to Supt. Coleman
no
Falls 2008 December 3, 2008
Steve Gravley #GH7466 SCI Fayette
Unnamed Deprivation of property; denial of due process
Steve Gravley reports that staff has destroyed his legal property and confiscated pictures of his wife as well, claiming that he is not permitted to have pictures of white women.
Unknown Yes race, gender
39
Fall 2008 December 12, 2008
Eric Lyons #EX1127 SCI Fayette
Lt. Vojacek; Sgt. Knizer; Capt. Trempus; Grievance Coordinator Rhonda House; Supt.’s Assistant Mary Ann Kushner
Destruction of property; retaliation; fabricated misconduct
Guards broke Mr. Lyons typewriter in retaliation for his efforts to assist other inmates in their legal endeavors, and then Capt. Trempus issued him a bogus misconduct for having broken the typewriter himself. Grievance Coordinator Rhonda House and Supt.’s Assistant Mary Ann Kushner have attempted to aid the guards by filing a late grievance rejection.
Yes no
Fall 2008 December 12, 2008
Eric Lyons #EX1127 SCI Fayette
Capt. Leggett; Theft of property; fabricated misconduct
Mr. Lyons hasd 12 law books stolen, worth approximately $1,100 from him by staff, and was then issued a misconduct by Capt. Legget for “forging” confiscated items receipts, which were provided him when the hardback books were placed in storage, and proved that the books were
Mr. Lyons wrote Kathleen Zwierzyna at DOC Central Office on October 3rd to report that Lt. Vojacek had told him he would continue to be “jacked back” in the SMU by means of fabricated misconducts. This is being done in retaliation for his efforts to file grievances and lawsuits, and help other prisoners do the same. Mr. Lyons reports that the grievance system is hopelessly corrupt and racist.
Unknown Yes Race
November 6, 2008
December 23, 2008
Steven Gravely #GH7466 SCI Fayette
Lt. Rymaunuirz (sp?)
Psychological/verbal Lt. Rymaunuirz informed Mr. Gravely that he thought staff would be pleased if he hurt himself, and then told him “To do us all a favor and kill yourself.”
Official inmate grievance #253838
no
November 12, 2008
December 23, 2008
Steven Gravely #GH7466
Unit Manager Abrams; Capt. Leggett; Lt.
Deprivation of property; retaliation; obstruction of justice
On this day Mr. Gravely’s legal material was stolen
Official Inmate Grievance
no
41
SCI Fayette Vojacek during a cell transfer, with Capt. Leggett stating, “you think I will give you the tools to help you win your case, you must be real dumb.” Lt Vojacek later ordered unnamed C/Os to go through Mr. Gravely’s property and take whatever they wanted, on the order of Leggett and Unit Manager Abrams. Mr. Gravely also had pictures of his wife taken by C/O Scrolls upon order of Vojacek, with the former stating that “Niggers ain’t allowed to pictures of white girls.”
#253840 & #252524 &
December 17, 2008
December 18, 2008; December 21, 2008 by Tierre Davis #DY1710 SCI Fayette; Patrick Brown #ET9084;
Andre Jacobs #DQ5437 SCI Fayette
C/O Miller; Lt. Aberack; Unit Manager Gary Abrams; Grievance Coordinator Rhonda House
Physical; fabricated misconduct; retaliation
While Mr. Jacobs was being led to retrieve legal property of his C/O Miller said, “This nigger thinks he’s a lawyer,” and squeezed the prisoner’s arm. When Mr. Jacobs
Official Inmate Grievance #254364
42
Andre Jacobs #DQ5437
asked why he was continuing to squeeze his arm, C/O Miller pushed the inmate. Mr. Jacobs had alerted both Capt. Leggett and Unit Manager Abrams that Miller was harassing him in retaliation for the lawsuit the prisoner had recently won. Capt. Leggett and Abrams both indicated that this is to be expected.
December 2008
December 18, 2008
Andre Jacobs #DQ5437 SCI Fayette
Unnamed denial of due process; fabricated misconduct
Andre Jacobs was denied all witnesses at a misconduct hearing and found guilty of an offense he did not commit, and received 60 days DC as a result.
Unknown Unknown
December to present
January 5, 2009 by Eric Lyons #EX1127; December 17, 2009 by Patrick Brown #ET9084
Andre Jacobs #DQ5437 SCI Fayette
unnamed Psychological/verbal; deprivation of law library and yard; denial of access to legal property
Eric Lyons reports that SMU staff have been threatening and harassing Mr. Jacobs since his recent victory in a lawsuit against DOC officials.
No no
December 17, 2008
December 21, 2008 by
Rodney Wilson
Sgt. Knizner Physical Tierre Davis witnessed an inmate
Unknown No
43
Tierre Davis #DY1710 SCI Fayette; December 17, 2008 by Patrick Bown #DT9084; by Eric Lyons #EX1127 on January 5, 2009; by Aaron Washington #EK4231 on December 23, 2008; anonymous December 29, 2008
#DD6079 get pushed down the stairs while in handcuffs after a Sgt. and C/O told him to shut up while he was talking with a Lt. The inmate was on Phase 2 of the SMU and about to be released to general population. Patrick Brown reports that the inmate was Rodney Wilson, who suffered one bruised hand, one cut hand, and his mouth was “busted open.” Pictures were taken of his wounds.
December 29, 2008
January 7, 2009 by Matthew Young; early January by anonymous prisoner
Matthew Young #GD4210
C/Os Halley and Holman
Physical; medical C/O Halley was physically abusive with Matthew Young while leading the prisoner to yard, pushing him and yanking on the tether attached to his handcuffs. C/O Holman returned Mr. Young to his cell, followed him inside, and began to deliver several blows to his head
Unknown no
44
while verbally abusing him as well. Homan slammed Mr. Young’s head into the back and side wall of his cell. Following this he dragged Mr. Young to the cell door by the handcuff tether. A nurse took pictures of his injuries. Mr. Young suffered a severe headache and a pain in his neck. At 4pm he was refused treatment by nurse Tony Trayter.
January 9, 2009
January 15, 2009 by family member of Mr. Boyking
Anthony Boyking #DS1972 SCI Fayette
C/Os Woods; Bricker; Kister
Physical; deprivation of food; deprivation of mail
Five of Mr. Boyking’s fellow prisoners wrote to a family member of his to report an assault he suffered on January 9th, involving the three guards named herein and others. Mr. Boyking suffered a head wound requiring 18 stitches; bruised and swollen head, face, and eyes; loss of consciousness; and
Unknown no
45
he was covered in blood and bruises according to multiple eyewitnesses. Mr. Boyking was accused of assault staff and placed in solitary confinement where he has been denied phone calls and writing/mail materials, as well as having been subjected to denial of food. Fayette received dozens of phone calls on Friday, January 16th and the state police and the DOC’s Office of Professional Responsibility have been contacted.
