Charles D. Riel v. Warden, San Quentin State Prison

Summary

The court addresses two pro se letters from death-row petitioner Charles D. Riel expressing concern that he may be assaulted in prison. The court finds the alleged risk speculative but directs that the order and letters be served on the relevant parties, counsel, the San Quentin State Prison Litigation Coordinator, and the petitioner.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the court should act on pro se letters submitted by a represented habeas petitioner.
2. Whether the petitioner's letters established a likely imminent risk to his safety requiring judicial action.

Disposition

other