Jones v. Superintendent John Doe

Background

Ronell Jones, proceeding without a lawyer, brought this action under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, a federal law allowing claims against state officials for violations of constitutional rights. Jones alleges that his rights were violated while he was incarcerated at Sing Sing Correctional Facility. The opinion states that another prisoner allegedly stabbed Jones in the B-Block Yard on April 14, 2024, and that Jones supplied enough information to identify the correctional officers who were present. Jones is currently incarcerated at Sullivan Correctional Facility.

The court had previously granted Jones permission to proceed without prepaying court fees. Because Jones was proceeding this way, the court explained that he could rely on the court and the U.S. Marshals Service to serve defendants after the court ordered service.

Court’s Actions

The court determined that the superintendent identified in the complaint as John Doe was Michael Capra. It directed the Clerk of Court to amend the caption by replacing Superintendent John Doe with Michael Capra. The amendment was stated to be without prejudice to any defenses Capra may assert.

The court directed the Clerk to issue a summons for Michael Capra, prepare the required U.S. Marshals Service paperwork, and provide the necessary documents to the Marshals Service for service. The court extended the service period to 90 days after the summons is issued. If service is not completed within that period, Jones should request an extension of time.

For the unidentified correctional officers, the court relied on the rule that a person proceeding without a lawyer is entitled to the court’s assistance in identifying a defendant. The court ordered the New York Attorney General’s Office, described as counsel and an agent for the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, to determine the officers’ identities, badge numbers, and addresses for service. That information must be provided to Jones and the court within 60 days of the order.

Required Next Steps and Disposition

Within 30 days after receiving the identifying information, Jones must file an amended complaint naming the John Doe defendants. The amended complaint will replace, rather than supplement, the original complaint. After it is filed, the court will screen it and, if necessary, issue another order concerning service.

The order also requires Jones to notify the court in writing of any address change and warns that the case may be dismissed if he fails to do so. The court did not decide whether Jones’s allegations are true or whether they establish a constitutional violation. Judge Cathy Seibel entered an order of service and identification procedures, rather than a merits ruling on the claims.