New York Inmates Sue to View Solar Eclipse Amid Planned Prison Lockdowns: Settlement Reached

New York Inmates Reach Settlement to View Solar Eclipse

Six New York inmates have reached a settlement with the state Department of Corrections to watch the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, after filing a federal lawsuit against the lockdown decision that would have prevented them from viewing the rare event.

Religious Rights

The inmates, Jeremy Zielinski, Travis Hudson, Bruce Moses, Oscar Nuñez, Jean Marc Desmarat, and David Haigh, claimed that the lockdown decision infringed on their religious rights. They argued that the solar eclipse is a religiously significant event and is recognized by various religions as warranting gathering, celebration, worship, and prayer.

"We are pleased that, in response to our lawsuit alleging religious discrimination, New York State has entered into a binding settlement agreement that will allow our six clients to view the solar eclipse in accordance with their sincerely held religious beliefs," - Christopher L. McArdle, Alston & Bird partner.

Settlement and Legal Representation

The law firm Alston & Bird, representing the plaintiffs, filed a voluntary discontinuance following the settlement. The inmates involved in the case are incarcerated at the Woodbourne Correctional Facility, located approximately 110 miles north of New York City.

Inmate Profiles and Charges

• Jeremy Zielinski, 40, convicted of first-degree rape, promoting sexual performance by a child, and attempting to disseminate indecent material of a minor. He is an atheist.
• Travis Hudson, 50, a Baptist convicted for a course of sexual conduct against a child.
• Bruce Moses, 50, serving time for second-degree assault, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of a controlled substance.
• Oscar Nuñez, 49, convicted of second-degree attempted murder and practices Santeria.
• Jean Marc Desmarat, 53, a Muslim convicted for second-degree murder.
• David Haigh, 49, a Seventh Day Adventist convicted of first-degree manslaughter.

Lockdown Decision and Next Solar Eclipse

The lawsuit was prompted by the lockdown decision issued in March, mandating that all New York prisons would operate on a holiday schedule on April 8 due to the total solar eclipse. However, the settlement now allows the six inmates the opportunity to view the eclipse in accordance with their religious beliefs. Following the April 8 event, the next solar eclipse is scheduled to take place in 2044.

For more information on the story, contact Fox News Digital's Louis Casiano.