Inmate sues over interference with satanism

ER · February 20, 2009, 03:28:14 PM

http://www.wtop.com/?nid=456&sid=1606890

Inmate sues over interference with satanism
February 20, 2009 - 3:04pm

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) - A 35-year-old man imprisoned for drug possession has filed a $10 million federal lawsuit against Yellowstone County, alleging jailers interfered with his satanic religious practices while he was in jail. The lawsuit filed by Jason P. Indreland claims county jail staff took from him a religious medallion, denied him access to a "Satanic Bible or Book of Satanic Rituals" and ridiculed and punished him for his religious beliefs.

The suit alleges that Yellowstone County jail staff placed "Christian natured greeting cards under (his) cell door," that said "Jesus was ready to save and accept him."

Indreland is serving a three-year sentence at the Montana State Prison for felony drug possession. He was convicted after police found him with 15 grams of methamphetamine in March 2007.

County officials said they have not seen the lawsuit and could not comment.

Information from: Billings Gazette, http://www.billingsgazette.com

Psycho Circus · February 20, 2009, 03:38:51 PM

Good for him.

Ed, Ego and Superego · February 21, 2009, 11:16:52 PM

Freedom of religion means any religion.
-Ed

CaptnTripps · February 22, 2009, 08:56:04 PM

Unfortunately, the inmate probably won't win that lawsuit.

Doggett · February 22, 2009, 09:03:10 PM

What's the difference between a cult and a religion ?

CaptnTripps · February 22, 2009, 09:12:00 PM

In my opinion...nothing.

ghouck · February 22, 2009, 10:06:51 PM

Quote from: CaptnTripps on February 22, 2009, 08:56:04 PM
Unfortunately, the inmate probably won't win that lawsuit.

I bet he does. Maybe not the 10 million dollars part, but I bet he gets them to stop trying to change his viewpoint, let him worship who he wants, and shut the hell up about it.

Rev. Powell · February 22, 2009, 11:28:12 PM

Quote from: ghouck on February 22, 2009, 10:06:51 PM
Quote from: CaptnTripps on February 22, 2009, 08:56:04 PM
Unfortunately, the inmate probably won't win that lawsuit.

I bet he does. Maybe not the 10 million dollars part, but I bet he gets them to stop trying to change his viewpoint, let him worship who he wants, and shut the hell up about it.

I agree with Ghouk. If he can prove his allegations, he should win. $10 million in damages is not going to fly, however, and makes me wonder if he's actually one of those inmates who makes up lawsuits to stave off boredom.