Force-Feeding Of Prisoner Decried By ACLU

Responding to a report that the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC) has begun force-feeding a prisoner on a hunger strike, the ACLU of Connecticut has urged prison officials to abandon the practice.

The prisoner, William Coleman was reportedly restrained to have artificial hydration and electrolytes administered intravenously, a practice Coleman has made clear is against his wishes. He has a living will denying this form of medical treatment.

“Every time an IV is inserted into Mr. Coleman, a competent adult, the DOC will violate his right to deny medical treatment,” said David McGuire, ACLU-CT Staff Attorney. “His hunger strike is a form of political protest deserving of free speech protection.”

Coleman has been on a hunger strike for a year; he began refusing liquids Sept. 15.