A judge has dismissed a lawsuit brought by the ACLU of Connecticut against the state. The lawsuit called for the release of some incarcerated people and more protection against COVID-19.
The ACLU has called on the state to release vulnerable prisoners, like those with pre-existing conditions, along with those in pre-trial detention or near the end of their sentence.
Judge Barbara Bellis ruled the ACLU didn’t show the state acted with deliberate indifference toward the risks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ACLU of Connecticut filed a second lawsuit against the state last week – in federal court. State officials say they’ve dramatically reduced the prison population and have safety measures in place to protect sick inmates.
Meanwhile, the Connecticut Department of Correction says a second prison inmate has died of the virus.
Officials say the 57-year old had pre-existing health conditions. A spokesperson for the department said they were able to arrange a phone call with his family before he passed away.
More than 300 incarcerated people in Connecticut have tested positive for COVID-19.
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