Muslims pepper-sprayed while praying
Eight Muslim prisoners who were pepper-sprayed whilst praying in their houseblock because their chapel was closed during a Covid lockdown have been awarded $667,000 (£500,000) in damages.
A court in the US state of Missouri heard that the men had been allowed to pray together many times during the pandemic in their residential area at the Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Centre in Bonne Terre. But on 28 February 2021, they were cuffed and pepper-sprayed – then placed in solitary confinement without soap or running water to wash off the painful spray. Some resorted to washing their faces with water from the toilet.
The men were initially charged with a major conduct violation for “acts of organized disobedience” by three or more offenders. That was later reduced to a minor violation. They were found guilty and released from segregation 10 days after the incident.
The men’s lawsuit alleged that prison staff had used excessive force, violated their right to practise their religion, and shown deliberate indifference to serious medical needs. Last month the jury ruled in favour of the men on all counts.
No comments:
Post a Comment