Ailing Inmate Gets Compassionate Release Despite DA’s Opposition
An ailing prison inmate serving a life sentence in Pennsylvania for a decades-old crime won a medical release order from a judge, though the decision came just hours after he was placed on life support.
Critically Ill Inmate Granted Release
Ezra Bozeman, 68, was granted release by an Allegheny County judge while battling sepsis in an intensive care unit. Bozeman’s quadriplegia, a complication from past surgery, had worsened significantly. His lawyers secured the release through Pennsylvania’s compassionate release law.
Governor and Prison Officials Supported Release
Both Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and the superintendent of the state prison where Bozeman was incarcerated supported his petition for release. However, Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala opposed Bozeman’s release. Zappala’s office has not yet indicated if they will appeal the judge’s decision.
Race Against Time for Bozeman
Bozeman was rushed to the hospital on Sunday night in critical condition. Pennsylvania’s compassionate release law allows for the transfer of terminally ill inmates to private medical facilities. Bozeman’s lawyers aim to move him to a long-term care facility if his health stabilizes.
Bozeman Maintains Innocence
Bozeman was convicted of second-degree murder in 1975 for the killing of Morris Weitz during a robbery. He has always maintained his innocence, claiming he was not involved in the crime and had a witness willing to recant their testimony. Bozeman was represented by the Abolitionist Law Center and Amistad Law Project.
