KENDALL J. NEWMAN, Magistrate Judge.
Petitioner is a state prisoner, proceeding pro se and in forma pauperis. Petitioner filed an application for petition of writ of habeas corpus pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 2254. Pending before the court is respondent's motion to dismiss the habeas petition as barred by the statute of limitations, as well as petitioner's motion to compel discovery of certain mental health records. For the reasons set forth below, petitioner's motion to compel is denied, and respondent's motion to dismiss should be granted.
The relevant chronology of this case is as follows:
1. On April 25, 1996, petitioner was convicted of forcible rape, residential burglary, and false imprisonment by violence. (Respondent's Lodged Document ("LD") 1.) A number of enhancement allegations were found true. (LD 1.)
2. Petitioner was sentenced to an indeterminate state prison term of twenty-nine years to life. (LD 1-2.)
3. Petitioner filed an appeal. On February 27, 1997, the California Court of Appeal for the Third Appellate District affirmed the conviction. (LD 2.)
4. Petitioner did not file a petition for review in the California Supreme Court.
5. On October 4, 2014,
6. On January 11, 2015, petitioner filed a petition for writ of habeas corpus in the California Court of Appeal for the Third Appellate District. (LD 5.) The appellate court denied the petition on February 26, 2015. (LD 6.)
7. On March 6, 2015, petitioner filed a petition for writ of habeas corpus in the California Supreme Court. (LD 7.) On May 20, 2015, the California Supreme Court denied the petition without comment. (LD 8.)
8. On June 16, 2015, petitioner constructively filed the instant federal petition. (ECF No. 1.)
9. Respondent filed the motion to dismiss on October 29, 2015. (ECF No. 11.) Petitioner filed an opposition. (ECF No. 17.) Respondent filed a reply. (ECF No. 21.) On February 16, 2016, petitioner filed a supplemental opposition to the motion to dismiss. (ECF No. 22.) On March 1, 2016, petitioner was granted leave, nunc pro tunc, to file his supplemental opposition, and respondent was granted leave to file a supplemental response. (ECF No. 25.) On March 4, 2016, petitioner filed a motion to compel respondent to produce petitioner's mental health records. (ECF No. 27.) On March 17, 2016, respondent filed a supplemental reply and opposition to petitioner's motion to compel. (ECF No. 29.) On March 24, 2016, petitioner filed a supplemental declaration providing the correct address for obtaining petitioner's mental health records. (ECF No. 30.)
Rule 4 of the Rules Governing Section 2254 Cases allows a district court to dismiss a petition if it "plainly appears from the face of the petition and any exhibits annexed to it that the petitioner is not entitled to relief in the district court. . . ."
On April 24, 1996, the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act ("AEDPA") was enacted. Section 2244(d)(1) of Title 8 of the United States Code provides:
28 U.S.C. § 2244(d)(1). Section 2244(d)(2) provides that "the time during which a properly filed application for State post-conviction or other collateral review with respect to the pertinent judgment or claim is pending shall not be counted toward" the limitations period. 28 U.S.C. § 2244(d)(2).
Section 2244(d)(2) provides that "the time during which a properly filed application for State post-conviction or other collateral review with respect to the pertinent judgment or claim is pending shall not be counted toward" the limitations period. 28 U.S.C. § 2244(d)(2). Generally, this means that the statute of limitations is tolled during the time after a state habeas petition has been filed, but before a decision has been rendered.
Petitioner does not dispute that the statute of limitations expired long before the instant petition was filed. However, to assist the court in evaluating petitioner's claim that he is entitled to equitable tolling, the court first addresses the issue of statutory tolling.
On February 27, 1997, the California Court of Appeal for the Third Appellate District affirmed the conviction. Petitioner did not seek review in the California Supreme Court. Thus, the state appeal process became final within the meaning of section 2244(d)(1)(A) when the time for filing a petition for review expired on April 8, 1997, forty days after the California Court of Appeal filed its decision.
Petitioner filed no post-conviction challenges in state court, so he is not entitled to additional tolling of the limitations period. 28 U.S.C. § 2244(d)(2).
Because the limitations period expired on April 8, 1998, and petitioner filed the instant petition on June 16, 2015, over 17 years too late, the instant petition is time-barred unless he can demonstrate that he is entitled to equitable tolling.
"Equitable tolling may be available `[w]hen external forces, rather than a petitioner's lack of diligence, account for the failure to file a timely claim.'"
"The threshold necessary to trigger equitable tolling [under AEDPA] is very high, lest the exceptions swallow the rule."
In opposition, petitioner contends that he suffers from an extensive mental illness and is currently housed in an Enhanced Outpatient Program (EOP)
Further, petitioner argues that the combination of solitary confinement in administrative segregation ("ad seg"), admission to the Department of Mental Health ("DMH") at Vacaville Psychiatric Program ("VPP"), prison lockdowns, lost legal papers, the unavailability of AEDPA in the Salinas Valley State Prison ("SVSP") law library, and petitioner's mental disorders and side effects from the psychotropic medications, prevented petitioner from understanding the need to prepare his petition for writ of habeas corpus in a timely manner, and under the totality of circumstances, it was impossible for him to meet the filing deadline, despite his diligence. (ECF No. 22 at 12; 33.) Petitioner contends that the failure to consider his claims on the merits would result in a fundamental miscarriage of justice. (ECF No. 22 at 19-21.)
Petitioner argues, inter alia, that in addressing his prior federal petition, the district court misled him into believing that he had no deadline to exhaust his state court remedies because the dismissal was "without prejudice," failed to allow him to amend to cure the deficiencies, and failed to advise him of stay-and abeyance procedures
On February 29, 2000, petitioner filed a petition for writ of habeas corpus in this court.
Case No. 2:00-cv-0431 GEB DAD (ECF No. 2 at 2, n.2). Because the district court specifically informed petitioner about the statute of limitations period, directing him to the governing statute, petitioner could not have believed that there was no deadline to challenge his conviction.
Moreover, on this record, stay and abeyance was not available to petitioner. Petitioner did not file a petition for review in the California Supreme Court. Petitioner concedes that he does not recall the claims raised in failed to allege that he had presented any of his claims to the California Supreme Court, or to allege that state court remedies were no longer available to him.
Because petitioner's prior habeas case was properly dismissed, the claims raised in the instant petition cannot relate back to claims raised in his prior petition.
But even assuming, arguendo, that petitioner had included exhausted claims in his previous habeas petition, the court was not required to notify him about the stay and abeyance procedure. It was not until September 6, 2002, that the Ninth Circuit held that the district court erred by failing to inform the prisoner "(1) that it could consider his stay motions only if he opted to amend the petitions and dismiss the then-unexhausted claims, and (2) that his federal claims would be time-barred, absent cause for equitable tolling, upon his return to federal court if he opted to dismiss the petitions `without prejudice' and return to state court to exhaust all of his claims."
For all of the above reasons, petitioner is not entitled to equitable tolling on the basis of rulings issued in Case No. 2:00-cv-0431 GEB DAD.
The Ninth Circuit has articulated a specific, two-part test for an equitable tolling claim based on a petitioner's mental impairment:
A petitioner alleging a severe mental impairment during the filing period is not entitled to an evidentiary hearing unless he or she makes "a good faith allegation that would, if true, entitle him to equitable tolling."
The medical records provided reflect the following. Petitioner arrived in CDCR custody in June of 1996, and was housed at DVI. (ECF No. 22 at 48 (June 7, 1996); ECF No. 22 at 42 (June 21, 1996).) On June 21, 1996, a "Brief Screening Report"
On October 18, 1996, petitioner was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar. (ECF No. 22 at 44) His GAF
On October 24, 1996, Dr. Norum wrote that petitioner was seen by Dr. Welk on October 21, 1996, and given a prescription for Sinequan, 100 mg. (ECF No. 22 at 50.) Dr. Norum found petitioner stable with no complaints; principal diagnosis was amphetamine abuse and depressive disorder NOS [not otherwise specified] (in view of 29 year to life sentence); mental health placement: CCCMS by Dr. Salz, Ph.D., on October 18, 1996. (ECF No. 22 at 50.) Petitioner was scheduled to return to clinic on November 17, 1996, for follow up medication review. (ECF No. 22 at 50.)
On October 30, 1996, psychiatrist C. Martin saw petitioner and noted that petitioner was "still crying," and assessed that petitioner was polysubstance dependent in [illegible] with mood disorder. (ECF No. 22 at 54.) Dr. Martin prescribed Amitriptyline, a different antidepressant, also sold under the name Elavil. (ECF No. 22 at 53.)
On January 25, 1997, written on the same progress note page as the October 30, 1996 notes, a medical doctor (signature illegible), wrote that petitioner was not suicidal, his speech was coherent and logical, and assessed petitioner with depressive disorder, NOS, and prescribed him Elavil, 100 mg for 90 days. (ECF No. 22 at 54.)
On February 15, 1997, a "Brief Screening Report" was completed, noting that there were "indications that this offender has a possible mood disorder," was "experiencing a major depression," "is suffering from a mental illness," and should be referred to a mental health professional. (ECF No. 22 at 55.) On February 17, 1997, petitioner was seen by D. Salz, Ed.D, who referred petitioner for further evaluation. (ECF No. 22 at 58.)
On February 22, 1997, petitioner was still housed at DVI, and Dr. Norum found petitioner alert, nondepressed, and nonpsychotic, and he denied suicide attempts or suicidal ideation. (ECF No. 22 at 54.) A history of amphetamine dependence was noted. Dr. Norum discontinued the CCCMS level of care and the Elavil, prescribed Benadryl, 100 mg, and Vistaril, 25 mg, ordered petitioner returned to the general population, and a return to clinic in 90 days. (ECF No. 22 at 54.) On February 22, 1997, Dr. Norum also completed the form "Reception Center Psychiatric Medication Evaluation," noting his assessment, and checked the box "no medication was required." (ECF No. 22 at 59.) For behavior alerts, Dr. Norum wrote that petitioner: "Has 25 yr [to] life sentence — Prefers Mule Creek SP, Level IV, if possible." (ECF No. 22 at 60.) On February 22, 1997, Dr. Norum also completed the "Mental Health Placement" form, marking "does not meet criteria for inclusion in the [mental health] treatment population," GAF 85, and "not on psychotropic medication." (ECF No. 21-10 at 2; 22 at 60.) However, on February 22, 1997, Dr. Norum also completed a "Medical Necessity Review for CCCMS" form, checking the box, "This inmate does MEET criteria for inclusion in the [mental health] treatment population — CCCMS," and checking the box "NOT currently taking psychotropic meds." (ECF No. 22 at 61.) On the CDC 128 C form referred to in the "Medical Necessity Review for CCCMS" form, Dr. Norum checked the box "does not meet criteria for inclusion in the [mental health] treatment population." (ECF No. 22 at 60.) But petitioner's "Inmate Health Assessments" form reflects that petitioner was in the CCCMS level of care on February 22, 1997, and didn't return to general population until February 24, 1998. (ECF No. 21-9 at 4-5.)
At some point, petitioner was transferred to SVSP. On March 5, 1997, MTA Kell completed an "Informational Chrono Referral for Psychiatric/Psychological Services" form, noting that petitioner's history of psychiatric care needed reassessment, and recommended psychiatric medication review, writing "CCCMS Suicide attempt in '90 or '91." (ECF No. 22 at 62.) At the bottom, a handwritten notation (in different handwriting), states: "3/6/97 No meds — Refer IDTT."
On February 19, 1998, petitioner was reviewed in IDTT, and the committee determined that he "does not meet the criteria for placement in the Mental Health Delivery System. His current placement is G.P. [general population]. He requires no mental health services." (ECF No. 22 at 63.) Petitioner's GAF was noted as 70, and his diagnosis was "V71.09."
Petitioner was transferred to PVSP, and on January 18, 2000, petitioner was seen by Sr. Psychologist Hoffman, Ph.D., who noted that petitioner arrived from SVSP on December 29, 1999, and was referred for mental health evaluation due to his prior CCCMS inclusion. (ECF No. 22 at 65.) Petitioner stated: "I was depressed." (
(ECF No. 22 at 65.) He remained housed in general population. (ECF No. 21-9 at 4.)
At some point, petitioner was transferred to CSP-Solano, but remained in the general population. (ECF No. 21-9 at 4.) On September 25, 2003, O.S. Glover, Ph.D., psychologist, excluded petitioner from the Developmental Disability Program, noting petitioner has good cognitive skills; no further assessment needed. (ECF No. 22 at 94.)
On October 20, 2005, a CSP-Solano mental health provider noted:
(ECF No. 22 at 95.) From 2005 through June 4, 2007, petitioner remained housed in the general population. (ECF No. 21-9 at 3-4.)
On June 5, 2007, at CSP-Solano, petitioner was included in the MHSDS at the CCCMS level of care, with a GAF of 65. (ECF No. 21-2 at 25.)
On August 6, 2007, H. Taylor, Ph.D. at CSP-Solano, noted petitioner's placement in a MHCB (mental health crisis bed)
On August 13, 2007, LCSW Apodaca included petitioner in the CCCMS level of care, GAF 55, with psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF No. 21-2 at 21.) On August 27, 2007, in the CCCMS outpatient treatment plan, petitioner's mood was depressed, and his sleep was poor, but he had no hallucinations or delusions. (ECF No. 17 at 72.) His cognition was within normal limits, his college education was noted, and GAF 62. (ECF No. 17 at 72.) Petitioner's problem was described as "depression and anxiety." (ECF No. 17 at 74.)
On September 9, 2007, LCSW Apodaca noted petitioner's inclusion in the MHCB for suicidal ideation, GAF 29, with psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF No. 21-2 at 19.)
On October 1, 2007, R. Coffin, Psy.D., noted petitioner's inclusion in the EOP level of care, GAF 49, with psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF No. 21-2 at 18.)
On October 15, 2007, petitioner was housed in the general population at SATF at the EOP level of care, and was assessed for suicide risk to determine the need for referral to the Crisis (MHCB) program. (ECF No. 21-1 at 34.) Petitioner reported he was "Not feeling right," had suicidal ideation, was adjusting to yard issues, possible divorce from wife, and loss of contact with children (block phone). L. Maravilla, MSW, referred petitioner to psychiatrist for medical review, and found petitioner at moderate risk. (ECF No. 21-1 at 34.) On October 15, 2007, petitioner was seen by Richard Berkson, M.D., Chief Psychiatrist, who wrote that petitioner was "exaggerating symptoms to gain MHCB admission. When told he would not be transferred to MCSP (Mule Creek State Prison), he laughed and denied suicidality." (ECF No. 21-1 at 35.) Dr. Berkson noted that petitioner was "motivated to transfer to SNY-EOP program," and "started" him on Remeron (antidepressant) for insomnia/depression. (ECF No. 21-1 at 35.)
On October 26, 2007, petitioner's medications were Paxil, Propranolol, Risperdal (antipsychotic), Wellbutrin, and Remeron, petitioner was assessed a GAF of 50. (ECF No. 17 at 127.) Petitioner was not doing well; Dr. B. Penny, staff psychiatrist, increased Paxil, discontinued Propranolol, tapered off the Wellbutrin, and continued the Risperdal and Remeron. (ECF No. 17 at 127.)
On December 10, 2007, at SATF, C. Staley, Ph.D, saw petitioner, on EOP level of care, for depression, being away from family. (ECF No. 17 at 118.) Present mental status exam were all within normal limits, except he sleeps only 5 hours per night and has a poor appetite. (ECF No. 17 at 118.) Petitioner appeared "stable at this time." (
By December 18, 2007, petitioner was transferred to MCSP, and Dr. Minor included petitioner in the EOP level of care, GAF 48, with psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF No. 21-2 at 17.) On December 20, 2007, petitioner was upset about his IDTT; he felt he was being punished for providing confidential information, which was then distributed to staff on the living unit, and claimed that a staff member asked petitioner about "smuggling cell phones and what cell phones were `going for' in a prison setting." (ECF No. 17 at 112.) Petitioner was shocked that staff, not at the IDTT, would have petitioner's confidential information. (
(ECF No. 17 at 112.) Dr. Minor assessed petitioner as stable, GAF 48, oriented times three, and did not appear to be responding to internal stimuli or auditory hallucinations. (ECF No. 17 at 112.) On December 24, 2007, petitioner was noted as a new arrival, having been at MCSP for two weeks. (ECF No. 17 at 110.)
On January 3, 2008, Dr. Minor assessed petitioner as follows: "appears narcissistic and believes he has the ability to control others and `know what they are thinking.' He has very little insight in to his process and is rigid in his over inflated sense of self-worth and efficacy. GAF = 49." (ECF No. 17 at 108.) On February 8, 2008, Dr. Minor opined that petitioner's "need for control and his intense desires to create predictable environment for himself are being challenged," and that he had "very little insight into his dysfunctional thinking," and his "criminal thinking and past predatory behavior for self-gain makes him a high risk on the EOP program for victimizing lower functioning [inmates]." (ECF No. 17 at 103.) Dr. Minor found petitioner's reports of depression and anxiety were "very vague and could potentially be manufactured in an attempt to manipulate his continued placement on EOP," GAF 49. (ECF No. 17 at 103.)
At the March 18, 2008 IDTT, the committee found that petitioner was responding to treatment on the EOP program, his symptoms had improved, his depression and anxiety were mild "and he appear[ed] to be functioning well in the institutional setting," with a GAF of 65. (ECF No. 21-5 at 34.) His therapist recommended to the committee that petitioner be placed on the CCCMS program. He was prescribed Effexor, Mirtazapine (aka Remeron), Risperdal, and Trazadone. Dr. Minor noted petitioner was medication compliant, but stated that "[c]aution should be used with this individual due to his medication seeking behaviors and his limited financial resources." (ECF No. 21-5 at 34.)
On May 8, 2008, at MCSP by LCSW Lebron, petitioner was CCCMS level of care, GAF 65, with psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF No. 21-2 at 17.) On June 24, 2008, LCSW Lebron identified the same diagnoses for petitioner, GAF 70. (ECF No. 17 at 94.)
On November 6, 2008, LSCW Lebron noted that "petitioner was adjusting to the yard. Had been in EOP due to adjustment difficulties and lack of trust in the system. Appears to have a tendency to become agitated and hyper when facing unfamiliar problems, speech becomes a little more rapid and increased modulation." (ECF No. 17 at 85.) Petitioner was diagnosed with adjustment disorder with anxiety and depression and antisocial personality disorder, and GAF 70. (ECF No. 17 at 85.)
On May 7, 2009, LCSW Lebron included petitioner in the CCCMS level of care, GAF 70, with psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF Nos. 21-2 at 17; 21-7 at 50.)
On February 4, 2010, petitioner was CCCMS; his weekly assessment noted his thought processes were linear with normal associations. (ECF No. 17-1 at 110.) On or about February 11, 2010, petitioner was placed in ad seg for possession of cell phone, syringe, and pruno at MCSP. (ECF No. 17-1 at 104.) Petitioner was very upset about the ICC action stating, "I don't want to be away from my family." (ECF No. 17-1 at 104.) On March 25, 2010, at MCSP, petitioner was issued a chrono for placement in the CCCMS level of care, GAF 65, with psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF No. 21-1 at 15.)
On May 4, 2010, petitioner was transferred to the DMH VPP at Vacaville for "continued acute care and evaluation." (ECF No. 21-2 at 14.) On May 11, 2010, a suicide risk assessment was done by M. Wahoma, R.N., at SCC, because of petitioner's confusion. (ECF No. 21-1 at 28.) Petitioner had been in a MHCB, and was at SCC on his way to SATF; he stated he was "very angry," and "does not trust anybody," but denied any other problems." (ECF No. 21-1 at 29.) Petitioner was at the CCCMS level of care. (ECF No. 21-1 at 28.) On May 13, 2010, petitioner was placed in a MHCB and assessed a GAF of 29. (ECF No. 21-2 at 13.) On June 28, 2010, petitioner was referred to the DMH VPP, GAF 29. (ECF No. 21-2 at 12.)
On June 29 or 30, 2010, petitioner was admitted from SATF to the VPP Acute Psychiatric Program. (ECF No. 22 at 73, 75, 90, 96.) The Social History Evaluation form stated the reason for his admission:
(ECF No. 22 at 73.) On admission, his mental status was cooperative and oriented as to person, time, and place, but his affect-mood was euphoric and his perceptions were marked as auditory hallucinations. (ECF No. 22 at 73.) His self-harm history was reported as history of overdose in 1993, provoked a high speed chase to crash his motorcycle in 1994, reported suicidal ideation and made a knife on May 6, 2010. (ECF No. 22 at 73.) His personal history noted that he holds a BA degree from CSUS in computer science, and was employed by the City of Lodi until he left to care for his ailing mother in Hawaii. (ECF No. 22 at 73-74.) After his mother died, petitioner lived off of his inheritance. (ECF No. 22 at 74.) He is married and reported having three children, 6, 16, and 19 years old. (ECF No. 22 at 73.) Petitioner's psychiatric history was:
(ECF No. 22 at 74.) The diagnostic impression was noted as Axis 1, mood disorder NOS, recurrent; Axis II, personality disorder, NOS, and Axis IV, estrangement from family, lifer. (ECF No. 22 at 74.)
Petitioner was seen by A.Tandinco, M.D., staff psychiatrist; petitioner denied auditory hallucinations are present, but "claim[ed] that he hears voices of angels. `Dark side and light side.' He denie[d] any delusions elicited, although he fe[lt] that at times he was paranoid in the past." (ECF No. 22 at 76.) Petitioner's insight regarding illness and judgment were "fair." (ECF No. 22 at 76.) Dr. Tandinco diagnosed petitioner as follows: Axis I, mood disorder NOS; Axis II, personality disorder NOS; Axis IV, incarceration; and Axis V, current GAF 30. (ECF No. 22 at 76.) The treatment plan was to admit petitioner to Q1, provide routine lab workup, and "[r]estart this medication from sending institution and we will wait in regards to program." (ECF No. 22 at 76.)
On July 6, 2010, at his rehabilitation therapy, petitioner's appearance was disheveled, his affect was hypomanic, his mood was euphoric, and he had auditory hallucinations, but he was cooperative and oriented to time, place, person and situation. (ECF No. 22 at 81.) Petitioner "reported feeling stressed about his sentence and being away from his family," but "currently feeling better due to a family visit he received over the 4th of July weekend." (ECF No. 22 at 81.) No SI/HI [suicidal or homicidal ideation] and no SIB [self-injurious behavior] observed." (ECF No. 22 at 82.) Petitioner reported his "stressors include being a lifer and being away from his family," and "feels addicted to his family and becomes suicidal when he cannot visit with them when placed in far-away prisons." (ECF No. 22 at 82.) The recommended treatment was "relaxation, community games, open art studio, current events, and reading materials x2 weekly." (ECF No. 22 at 82.) Petitioner was seen by various medical professionals on July 6, 13, 22, 26, and 30, 2010. (ECF No. 22 at 84, 85.)
On July 10, 2010, S. Dahl, LCSW, completed a VPP Acute Psychiatric Program Social History Evaluation:
(ECF No. 22 at 66.) Petitioner's current GAF was 30. (
On July 28, 2010, petitioner was discharged to the EOP level of care. (ECF No. 22 at 86.) LCSW Dahl noted that petitioner had not displayed any suicidal symptoms since his admission; progressed through the program; full programmer with yard; attended groups and interacted appropriately; mood and affect were within normal limits; was pleasant and cooperative and reportedly taking his medications. (ECF No. 22 at 86.) Petitioner's diagnosis on discharge was: Axis I, bipolar disorder NOS, methamphetamine dependence in remission in controlled environment; Axis II, deferred; Axis IV, incarceration, lifer, separation from family; and Axis V, GAF 40. (ECF No. 22 at 86.) Dahl recommended continued mental health treatment at EOP level of care. (ECF No. 22 at 86.)
On July 26, 2010, Dr. Geringson dictated petitioner's discharge summary, noting petitioner's history of suicidal attempts: overdose in 1993, high speed chase in 1994, overdose in 2007, and most recently suicidal ideation and made a knife to kill in 2010. (ECF No. 22 at 98.) Petitioner's medications were adjusted after his admission, and petitioner responded well to the treatment, had no behavior problems, no self-injurious behavior, no suicidal or homicidal ideations. (ECF No. 22 at 98.) Dr. Geringson found petitioner's insight was diminished and his judgment was fair; petitioner had improved to the degree he no longer required inpatient care. (ECF No. 22 at 98.) At discharge petitioner was prescribed Geodon, 80 mg (anti-psychotic), and Venlafaxine ER 225 mg (antidepressant). (ECF No. 22 at 98.) On July 30, 2010, petitioner was at the EOP level of care and assessed a GAF of 40. (ECF No. 21-2 at 11.)
On August 2, 2010, a "Rehabilitation Therapy Discharge Summary" was completed by J. Turner, "RT," who noted that petitioner's discharge status was "CCCMS." (ECF No. 22 at 88.) Petitioner, 41, was admitted from SATF "for treatment of SI/HI." (ECF No. 22 at 88.) Petitioner "reported feeling stressed about his sentence and being far away from his family. No current SI/HI and no SIB observed." (ECF No. 22 at 88.) Petitioner fully programmed and met his treatment goals. (
On August 9, 2010, Dr. Geringson wrote "D/C to EOP." (ECF No. 22 at 89.) The patient admission/discharge data document reflected that petitioner was admitted to CMF Vacaville Hospital on June 29, 2010, and discharged on August 9, 2010. (ECF No. 22 at 90.) His discharge diagnosis was: Axis I, Bipolar Disorder, NOS; Amphetamine Dependence; Axis II, diagnosis deferred; and Axis V, GAF 40. (ECF No. 22 at 90, 98.) On August 10, 2010, his GAF was 29. (ECF No. 21-2 at 10.) On August 12, 2010, petitioner's GAF was 45 and he was in EOP. (ECF No. 21-2 at 9.)
On August 19, 2010, petitioner was at the EOP level of care at CSP-Corcoran, and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder NOS, mood disorder NOS, with a GAF of 49. (ECF No. 21-1 at 16.) Petitioner was prescribed Gedeon (antipsychotic) for depression, and Effexor and Bisteril. (
On November 30, 2010, petitioner, at the EOP level of care at MCSP, was evaluated for suicide risk because of transfer planning. (ECF No. 21-1 at 12.) LCSW D. Laughlin estimated petitioner's chronic risk as high based on his multiple risk factors and suicide attempts; his acute risk was low due to protective factors and upcoming family visits. (
On January 2, 2011, petitioner received a chrono for refusing to comply with his medication on three consecutive days; his medications were identified as Vistaril, Depakote, and Abilify (antipsychotic). (ECF No. 21-2 at 5.) On January 10, 2011, petitioner received a chrono for missing 50% or more of his medication in a seven day period, with a note that he was refusing all p.m. medications because he "has concerns about weight gain." (ECF No. 21-2 at 6.) On January 13, 2011, petitioner received a chrono for refusing to comply with his p.m. meds (4) on three consecutive days. (ECF No. 21-2 at 5.)
On March 4, 2011, petitioner, at the EOP level of care, was evaluated at MCSP for suicide risk because of "HQ request." (ECF No. 21-1 at 8.) Petitioner was
(ECF No. 21-1 at 10.) Petitioner expressed feeling better following contact with P. Wood, Ph.D.; petitioner took prescribed medications and gave Naproxen pills in cell to nursing staff as a precaution. (ECF No. 21-1 at 10.) The treatment plan was for petitioner to discuss his concerns regarding transfer to CCCMS with his program administrator on Monday. (
On March 25, 2011, petitioner was assessed for suicide risk by Alice M. Lebron, LCSW, BCD ("Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work"), at MCSP, because "initial from ad-seg." (ECF No. 21-1 at 30, 32.) Petitioner reported his history of suicide attempts, but reported no such thoughts at present. (ECF No. 21-1 at 32.) Petitioner has concerns about proposed transfer that would take him away from visits with his wife and children. (ECF No. 21-1 at 32.) The treatment plan was for petitioner to be seen for follow-up and to explore problem solving, emotional processing and personal belief system. (ECF No. 21-1 at 32.) On March 29, 2011, petitioner was at the CCCMS level of care, GAF 61; on April 14, 2011, he remained in CCCMS with a GAF of 65. (ECF No. 21-2 at 3, 4.)
On May 13, 2011, at CTF, W. Reese, Ph.D., performed a suicide risk assessment. (ECF No. 21-1 at 6.) Petitioner's prior suicide attempts were listed: 1994 high speed car chase, danger to self; 2007, overdose in prison when convicted; May, 2010, plan to overdose pills and rush correctional officer for death by cop; hanging noose, crisis bed. (ECF No. 21-1 at 6.) Petitioner did not report a desire to die or a plan to kill himself. (ECF No. 21-1 at 6.) Dr. Reese included additional details:
(ECF No. 21-1 at 7.) Dr. Reese found that petitioner "must be considered a moderate risk for both chronic and acute estimations of risks" based on his extensive history of four past lethal suicide attempts, and faults in reasoning. (ECF No. 21-1 at 7.) The treatment plan included an IDTT in CTF North on May 17, 2011, and recommended weekly therapy and transfer to EOP program, "adjunctive psy regimen," and evaluation for major mental illness bipolar disorder." (ECF No. 21-1 at 7.) Dr. Reese noted:
(ECF No. 21-1 at 7.) Dr. Reese included a safety plan of "weekly visits as EOP Services, and briefed to notify [correctional officer] and mental health, re: any emergent situation." (
On May 14, 2011, petitioner was issued a chrono for refusing his medication on three consecutive days. (ECF No. 21-2 at 2.) On May 17, 2011, Dr. Reese, issued a chrono continuing petitioner on the EOP level of care, and listed his GAF at 48. (ECF No. 21-2 at 2.)
On May 24, 2011, petitioner signed a "Statewide Psychotropic Medication Consent form" stating that he was made aware that he was on a heat risk medication by Dr. Bhatti, M.D., and "Risperdal 6 wk" is handwritten on the form. (ECF No. 22 at 130.) The box marked "atypical antipsychotics" was marked, stating that
(ECF No. 22 at 131.)
On August 16, 2011, at CTF, Dr. Reese signed a chrono stating that petitioner had a qualifying mental disorder, assigned to the EOP level of care, GAF 49, and psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF Nos. 17-1 at 129; 22 at 100.)
On September 27, 2011, LCSW West at MCSP signed a chrono that petitioner's qualifying mental disorder required the EOP level of care, his GAF was 42, and psychotropic medication prescribed. (ECF Nos. 21-1 at 61; 22 at 101.)
On November 3, 2011, petitioner had a 1:1 appointment with J. Wilcox, Ph.D., Psy.D. (ECF No. 21-3 at 79.) Petitioner reported he had been trained as a machinist and certified welder. (
On December 27, 2011, petitioner's treatment team members issued a mental health treatment plan finding that petitioner "requires ongoing EOP services to maintain current gains in symptom stability and symptom remission." (ECF No. 22 at 102.) His problems were noted as mood instability, impulse control, hypomania/mania, and anxiety, for which he attended 7-11 groups per week for individual and group psychotherapy. (ECF No. 22 at 102.) Petitioner was taking the following psychotropic medications: Trileptal for mood instability, and Effexor for depression. (ECF No. 22 at 102.) His risk factors for suicide were recorded: first suicide attempt in 2009; most recent, April 2011 overdose/hanging; suicide attempts occurred when he was transferred to prisons away from family. (ECF No. 22 at 102.) His mental status exam was within normal limits except that his affect was blunted, his mood was anxious and could become manic/hypomanic, his memory was recorded as "poor historian doesn't remember dates well," his auditory hallucinations and delusions of persecution currently under good control, obsessions were noted as "family problems; not being a good father," and his insight and judgment were listed as "fair." (ECF No. 22 at 103.) His current diagnosis was Bipolar disorder, NOS, and amphetamine dependence, in institutional remission, and anti-social personality disorder; GAF 49. (ECF No. 22 at 104.)
On June 22, 2012, petitioner received a 128-C chrono for refusing all a.m. meds. (ECF No. 21-1 at 60.) On June 27, 2012, petitioner received a 128-C chrono for refusing nurse administered medications for three consecutive days. (ECF No. 21-1 at 59.) On both 128-C chronos, the psych box was checked and "Kecskes" was identified as the prescribing provider. (
On July 18, 2012, petitioner completed a Health Care Services Request Form asking to see "Dr. K" to "get put back on some kind of medication." (ECF No. 21-2 at 43.) On July 19, 2012, petitioner was working as building 6 porter. (ECF No. 21-3 at 32.) Dr. Wilcox noted that petitioner just had another Mohawk haircut, is known by the nickname, "the Rock," "and continues to act in ways to draw negative attention to himself and to intimidate (or attempt to) intimidate other inmates." (ECF no. 21-3 at 32.) His GAF was 46. (
On July 24, 2012, currently in the EOP program at MCSP, petitioner asked to be returned to psychotropic medications; he had been off all such medication since his last contact visit. (ECF No. 21-3 at 30.) Petitioner refused certain medications, but Dr. Kecskes prescribed petitioner Lamictal 25 mg. (ECF No. 21-3 at 30-31.) On August 28, 2012, J. Wilcox, Ph.D. at MCSP, found petitioner suffered from a qualifying mental disorder requiring the CCCMS level of care, GAF 51, and was prescribed psychotropic medications. (ECF No. 22 at 105.)
On September 7, 2012, Michael Smith, M.D., Staff Psychiatrist at MCSP, performed a routine initial psychiatric evaluation on petitioner who was moved from EOP to the CCCMS level of care. (ECF No. 21-3 at 20.) Petitioner reported he had started college classes, and was previously a porter in the EOP building. (
On September 25, 2012, petitioner was again included in the CCCMS level of care, with a GAF of 60, and was prescribed psychotropic medication. (ECF No. 22 at 106.) On November 27, 2012, S. Rossi, Psy. D. at Valley State Prison ("VSP"), found that petitioner met the inclusion criteria the CCCMS level of care, GAF 60, and was prescribed psychotropic medication. (ECF No. 22 at 107.)
On November 27, 2012, petitioner's treatment team at VSP issued a mental health treatment plan. The clinical summary stated that
(ECF No. 22 at 108.) Petitioner was again diagnosed as Bipolar disorder, NOS, with a GAF of 60. (ECF No. 22 at 108.) His mental status exam was within normal limits, except that his affect was noted as "expansive," and his mood listed as "at present, positive, lable" (ECF No. 22 at 109.) His speech, marked within normal limits, was noted as "articulate." (
On January 14, 2013, Bryan Harrelson, M.D., performed a psychiatric medication evaluation due to medicine noncompliance. (ECF No. 21-3 at 4.) Petitioner disputed the noncompliance, stating he had only missed an occasional weekend dose. Petitioner's affect remained broad, his mood was stable, there was no evidence of mania or psychosis, his thought processes were linear, and his insight and judgment were adequate; GAF 62. The treatment plan was to continue Lamictal 100 mg in the morning and Vistaril 100 mg in the evening for mood stabilization. (ECF No. 21-3 at 4.) On January 18, 2013, petitioner was seen by his primary clinician, S. Snow, Psy.D, for regular two-month contact. (ECF Nos. 21-2 at 79; 21-3 at 2-3.) Petitioner's affect was broad, his mood was slightly dysthymic, but stable, his affect congruent with mood, there was no evidence of mania or psychosis, thought process linear, and thought content was within normal limits; GAF 62. Dr. Snow's plan was to continue case management in four weeks; refer petitioner to life group therapy and provide cognitive restructuring, lifelong learning of values, and discovering of new self-image. (ECF No. 21-2 at 79.) On January 28, 2013, petitioner was listed at the CCCMS level of care, with no acute distress; relatively stable. (ECF No. 21-2 at 78.)
On February 14, 2013, petitioner was seen by A. White, Ph.D., staff psychologist at VSP, for follow-up. (ECF No. 21-2 at 77.) Petitioner was agitated about seeing several clinicians in a short period of time rather than his primary clinician. Dr. White quoted petitioner: "I'm not suicidal, I'm not homicidal, I know how to ask for help. Please see me every 90 days. This affects my job. I work in plants ops as the machinist." (ECF No. 21-2 at 77.) Petitioner has been in the CCCMS program since 1994 except for 4-5 years as an EOP participant at MCSP. His thought contact was normal and thought process was intact, he was oriented in all spheres, and had good eye contact; GAF 60. Petitioner denied having hallucinations. (ECF No. 21-2 at 77.)
On March 11, 2013, Dr. Harrelson performed a psychiatric medication evaluation. (ECF No. 21-2 at 74.) Petitioner reported good compliance and no side effects with Lamictal and Vistaril, but had some mood lability, especially regarding the depressed phase. (
On May 29, 2013, petitioner was referred to Dr. Harrelson for medicine noncompliance. (ECF No. 21-2 at 71.) Petitioner admitted to discontinuing Lamictal and Vistaril about 5 days ago, because he wanted to come off mental health medicine, hoping to gain a transfer to be an inmate worker at the new Stockton facility. (ECF No. 21-2 at 71.) Dr. Harrelson noted that petitioner's affect was fairly broad, there was no evidence of mania or psychosis, his thought processes were linear, and his insight and judgment were adequate; GAF 63. The plan was to discontinue Lamictal and Vistaril at petitioner's request, with follow-up in 30 days or sooner, if needed. (ECF No. 21-2 at 52.)
On June 26, 2013, petitioner completed a Health Care Services Request Form stating he'd like to speak with the psychiatrist to "get back on [his] meds." (ECF No. 21-2 at 39.)
On October 9, 2013, Dr. Harrelson performed a psychiatric medication evaluation. (ECF No. 21-2 at 67.) Petitioner reported he was back on B-yard after having been on C-yard for a little while. (
On December 17, 2013, petitioner was issued a chrono at VSP noting he was CCCMS and prescribed psychotropic medication. (ECF Nos. 21-1 at 54; 22 at 112.) The mental health treatment plan was Vistaril 100 PRN for anxiety, and Lamictal 150 for mood swings. (ECF No. 22 at 113.) The clinical summary stated that petitioner has been in CCCMS off and on since 1996. He was EOP off and on since 2008. (ECF No. 22 at 113.) He was again diagnosed as Axis I, bipolar disorder, NOS; amphetamine dependence; Axis II, antisocial personality disorder; Axis IV incarceration; and Axis V, GAF 60. (ECF No. 22 at 113.) His mental status exam was within normal limits; it was noted in cognition that petitioner stated he has a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science and was taking sociology and psychology courses at MCSP. (ECF No. 22 at 114.) Petitioner described his current problem as:
(ECF No. 22 at 115.)
On January 7, 2014, Dr. Harrelson performed a psychiatric medication evaluation. (ECF No. 21-2 at 64.) Petitioner reported "good mood stabilization with medication, as well as reduced anxiety." (
On February 4, 2014, petitioner was referred to Dr. Harrelson because of noncompliance. (ECF No. 21-2 at 61.) Petitioner reported missing some doses of Lamictal due to issues with the morning medication line. Petitioner's affect was broad, there was no evidence of mania or psychosis, his thought processes were linear, and his insight and judgment remained good; GAF 64. (ECF No. 21-2 at 61.) The plan was to continue Lamictal 100 mg daily for mood stabilization and Vistaril 100 mg at bedtime as needed for anxiety. (
On July 24, 2014, Dr. Harrelson noted that petitioner's affect remained broad, there was no evidence of mania or psychosis, his thought processes were linear, and his insight and judgment were adequate; GAF 65. (ECF No. 21-2 at 52.) Petitioner reported he continues to work a mechanic job which he likes." (
On November 6, 2014, and November 12, 2014, petitioner received chronos stating that he had a qualifying mental disorder, was at the CCCMS level of care, GAF 60, and was prescribed psychotropic medication. (ECF Nos. 21-1 at 53; 22 at 117, 118.) On November 12, 2014, petitioner's mental health treatment plan reflected the same medications, and diagnoses, and his mental status exam was again within normal limits. (ECF No. 22 at 120.) Petitioner claimed that the Lamictal helped, stating the "highs and lows aren't as low." (ECF No. 22 at 121.) He remained at the CCCMS level of care. (ECF Nos. 21-1 at 51, 52; 22 at 122.)
On December 29, 2014, Dr. Harrelson noted that petitioner's mood was stable, there was no evidence of mania or psychosis, and his thought processes were goal directed; GAF 67. (ECF No. 21-2 at 49.) The treatment plan was to continue Lamictal 150 mg daily for mood stabilization and Vistaril 100 mg at bedtime as needed for anxiety. (
On March 23, 2015, Dr. Harrelson noted that petitioner's mood was stable, there was no evidence of mania or psychosis, and his thought processes were linear; GAF 67. (ECF No. 21-2 at 46.) The treatment plan was to continue Lamictal 150 mg daily for mood stabilization and Vistaril 100 mg at bedtime as needed for anxiety. (
After carefully considering the record, for the reasons stated herein, the undersigned finds that petitioner is not entitled to equitable tolling based on mental illness. Petitioner has not demonstrated that he suffered from a severe mental impairment throughout the limitations period that rendered him unable to rationally or factually understand the need to timely file his federal petition or that rendered him unable to prepare his federal petition.
The mental health records reflect that when he arrived in CDCR custody in June of 1996, petitioner initially suffered from major depression. On October 18, 1996, he was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar, and was prescribed Doxepin, an antidepressant. On January 25, 1997, petitioner was prescribed Elavil, another antidepressant, which was discontinued on February 22, 1997, and he was prescribed antihistamines (Benadryl and Vistaril). By then, petitioner's GAF was 85, and he was not prescribed psychotropic medication. He remained in the CCCMS level of care until February 24, 1998, when he was released from the MHSDS program and returned to the general population. It was not until June of 2007, that petitioner was returned to the CCCMS level of care.
Here, the relevant time period is between April 8, 1997, when the one-year limitations period began, and June 16, 2015, the date the instant petition was constructively filed.
Importantly, on February 22, 1997, and February 19, 1998, petitioner was found not to meet the criteria for inclusion in the mental health treatment population, and was removed from mental health treatment. (ECF No. 22 at 54, 63.) Such removal coincides with petitioner's housing in the general population (ECF No. 21-9 at 3-4), and would explain the absence of any mental health records from 1997 to 1998. Moreover, on February 19, 1998, petitioner's GAF was listed as 70. (ECF No. 22 at 63.) Although petitioner contends there are missing mental health records from March 6, 1997, to February 19, 1998, his placement in the general population does not suggest a severe mental impairment, and his GAF assessments of 85 and 70 reflect only mild symptoms. In light of the evidence that petitioner was housed in the general population during this period, his statement that while he was housed at SVSP from 1997 until 1999 "there was no mental health services, or it was so inadequate that it seemed non-existent" (ECF No. 22 at 34), is insufficient to show he was severely impaired from 1997 to 1999. Indeed, even after he was transferred from SVSP, he "denied experiencing psychiatric difficulties" on January 18, 2000. (ECF No. 22 at 65.) On October 20, 2005, at CSP-Solano, petitioner reported that his depression was "seasonal," related to "the holidays." (ECF No. 22 at 95.)
Thus, during the one year period when the statute of limitations period was running, from April 8, 1997, to April 8, 1998, there is no evidence that petitioner was suffering from a severe mental illness that impaired his ability to file a federal habeas petition while he was housed in the general population at SVSP. Moreover, the records reflect that petitioner was not returned to the CCCMS level of care until early June of 2007, years after the limitations period expired, at which time his GAF was listed as 65. (ECF Nos. 21-2 at 25; 21-9 at 3.)
Petitioner's mental health appears to have deteriorated in August of 2007, when he was transferred to a MHCB, and was not returned to CCCMS until March 18, 2008, and then suffered another crisis on May 13, 2010, when he was transferred to a MHCB (ECF No. 21-2 at 13), then admitted to the DMH VPP on June 29, 2010, and then released to another MHCB until he was released to EOP on August 9, 2010 (ECF No. 22 at 89). However, with the exception of these crisis periods, petitioner was usually stable on medication. After June 14, 2007, medical records show that petitioner was frequently seen by mental health professionals, and was consistently described by clinicians as alert and oriented, and his thought process organized. Petitioner did not complain of ill side effects from his medications, other than when he presented with a request to change medications. For example, on January 10, 2011, he refused his afternoon medications because he believed they were causing him to gain weight. (ECF No. 21-2 at 6.) On a few occasions, he complained regarding his sleep (ECF No. 17 at 72 ("poor" sleep); 17 at 118 (only 5 hours sleep per night). While petitioner received changed and increased doses of medication, it appears that petitioner was still able to function, since at these same appointments petitioner was described as alert and oriented with an organized thought process. His cognitive function was consistently described as within normal limits. Thus, although petitioner was taking psychotropic medications during some of the relevant period, it does not appear that the medications left petitioner incoherent or unable to function. Clearly, there were times when petitioner was in a crisis state, admitted to a crisis bed or the DMH following suicide attempts or when experiencing suicidal ideation. But notably all such episodes occurred long after the limitations period had expired (August 6, 2007, September 11, 2007, June 3, 2010, June 28, 2010, and August 12, 2010).
In his opposition, petitioner provides a list of symptoms associated with psychotropic medications. (ECF No. 22 at 130.) He also sets forth the various psychotropic drugs he was prescribed and claims the provided list describes "some" of the side effects of taking psychotropic medications. (ECF No. 22 at 10-11.) However, petitioner does not specifically identify which side effects he suffered, or how such side effect impaired his ability to file his federal petition. Petitioner provided a declaration by his jailhouse lawyer, Stephen Snow, who shared his experiences with psychotropic medications and living with depression. (ECF No. 22 at 174-75.) But such declaration fails to explain how petitioner's side effects or symptoms impaired his ability to file a timely federal petition.
Further, petitioner declares that it was "only in 2015, did [he] understand the need to prepare a habeas petition to file in a timely manner, by reading some type of manual showing how to prepare a habeas petition to file in a timely manner," and only after meeting Stephen Snow in December 2015, did [petitioner] understand the need to adequately prepare my legal papers to file in the federal court." (ECF No. 22 at 36.) However, petitioner's medical records indicate that during the limitations period he was generally doing well, with rare complaints concerning the effects of the medication. Other than those instances when petitioner was in a crisis state, petitioner denied having auditory hallucinations, or stated they were under control. Except for the crisis periods, petitioner's thought process was consistently described as linear, and his cognition within normal limits. In addition, the record reflects that petitioner filed a pro se federal petition on February 29, 2000, as well as his own pro se habeas petitions in state court in 2014.
The court also notes that during the relevant time period, after he was transferred from the general population to the CCCMS level of care on June 14, 2007, petitioner was routinely seen on an outpatient basis and was frequently assigned to the CCCMS level of care, which "suggests that petitioner was able to function despite his mental health problems."
Despite such fluctuations in petitioner's GAF assessments, the medical records do not demonstrate a medical incapacity so severe that it prevented petitioner from understanding and acting on his rights. Rather, petitioner was generally oriented, able to communicate, and able to understand others. In
Therefore, while petitioner suffered from a serious mental illness during the relevant period, petitioner failed to demonstrate that his mental impairment was so severe that he was unable to either understand the need to file or to personally prepare and file a habeas petition.
Accordingly, petitioner does not meet the first prong of the
Petitioner has not established that he pursued his rights diligently.
Here, petitioner has alleged no facts showing assistance was not reasonably available or that his alleged mental problems prevented him from locating or communicating with others for assistance in order to file a timely petition. Review of the medical records demonstrates that petitioner was able to communicate clearly with medical professionals concerning his health issues. Petitioner was housed in general population from February 24, 1998, to June 13, 2007, yet he fails to explain why he was unable to obtain assistance during that time frame. In addition, while petitioner was housed in the general population at Pleasant Valley State Prison, he filed a pro se petition for writ of habeas corpus in Case No. 2:00-cv-0431 GEB DAD on February 29, 2000. Such filing demonstrates that petitioner was aware he needed to file a federal petition. Moreover, on June 7, 2000, petitioner was cited the applicable statute, 28 U.S.C. § 2244(d), and warned that there was a one year limitations period. Case No. 2:00-cv-0431 GEB DAD (ECF No. 2 at 2). Yet petitioner did not file objections or inform the court that he needed assistance in pursuing habeas relief.
Further, petitioner's own explanation as to why his petition was untimely suggests that his mental impairment was not the but-for cause of the delay in the filing of his federal petition.
Finally, for at least part of the relevant time period, petitioner was working as a machinist or a mechanic, in electrical and PC repair, as a teacher's aide or a porter (ECF Nos. 21-2 at 55, 58, 74, 77; 21-3 at 32; 21-11 at 2), and, while at MCSP, he was taking college classes (ECF No. 21-3 at 20). Such activities suggest that petitioner's mental illness did not interfere with his ability to locate or understand the need for assistance. "Without any allegation or evidence of how petitioner's symptoms actually caused him not to be able to file despite his diligence, the court cannot find that he is entitled to equitable tolling."
Accordingly, considering the totality of the circumstances pertinent to petitioner's ability to file a timely petition, petitioner has not shown that he suffered from a mental impairment so severe as to cause his untimely filing. The record contradicts petitioner's general allegations that side effects from the psychotropic medications impaired his ability to file his federal petition or to seek assistance. Further, considering the entire record, petitioner does not explain how his condition actually caused him not to be able to file a petition despite the exercise of diligence.
For the reasons discussed above, the undersigned finds that petitioner is not entitled to equitable tolling based on mental illness.
Petitioner also contends that the documented poor health care provided to state prison inmates was an impediment to petitioner receiving adequate mental health care, citing the class actions
Petitioner claims that "the failure to consider his claims on the merits would result in a fundamental miscarriage of justice." (ECF No. 22 at 19.) Respondent construes this statement as a claim of actual innocence as an exception to the statute of limitations, but argues that petitioner failed to present any new evidence in support thereof. (ECF No. 29 at 8.)
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed with the Ninth Circuit that the "actual innocence" exception applies to the AEDPA's statute of limitations.
Actual innocence in this context "means factual innocence, not mere legal insufficiency."
Petitioner has not provided any newly-discovered evidence which demonstrates that he is factually innocent of the crimes for which he was convicted. Thus, petitioner's claim fails.
Petitioner alleges that the combination of solitary confinement in ad seg, admission to the DMH VPP, prison lockdowns, lost legal papers, and the unavailability of AEDPA in the SVSP law library also prevented petitioner from timely filing his federal petition. (ECF No. 22 at 12.) In his declaration, petitioner avers that while he was housed in MHCB's and in ad seg "in various prisons," he had no access to his personal property. (ECF No. 22 at 35.) Petitioner declares that from 1996 to 2015, he "lacked the understanding how to research the law, using the law books or using the computers, to understand the need to prepare a habeas petition" in a timely manner. (ECF No. 22 at 36.)
Jailhouse lawyer Snow declares that he was housed at SVSP from August 1996 to 2001. (ECF No. 22 at 171.) Although both Snow and petitioner were housed on Facility "A" yard, Snow never met petitioner while Snow was at SVSP. Snow avers that Facility "A" yard was on lockdown for several months because of racial riots, and that he could only access the law library if he could demonstrate a court deadline, and then only for two hours, once a week. Snow declares that there were other issues with the SVSP law library: no computers; the law books weren't updated; numerous cases were torn out of the law books; there were no law books describing AEDPA's one year statute of limitations or concerning changes in habeas corpus law; the library only had room for 8-10 inmates at a time, and it was years after AEDPA passed before law library staff recognized that the AEDPA deadline should be a deadline to qualify for PLU status. (ECF No. 22 at 172.)
Respondent counters that petitioner's "kitchen-sink argument fails because petitioner provides no specific dates or details about when these events occurred." (ECF No. 29 at 4.)
To the extent that petitioner contends that the extraordinary circumstance was his lack of understanding of the law, his claim for equitable tolling must fail.
Lack of access to legal materials may provide a basis for equitable tolling.
Petitioner's claim that the law library at SVSP did not have law books describing AEDPA is pertinent, because petitioner was convicted on April 25, 1996, the day after AEDPA was enacted on April 24, 1996. Thus, it is conceivable that prison law libraries did not yet have copies of AEDPA when petitioner was admitted to CDCR custody. However, Snow did not provide the dates that no such law books describing AEDPA were in the SVSP library. In addition, he does not aver that there were no copies of the statute posted or provided to the inmates. Moreover, the limitations period did not begin to run until April 8, 1997, almost a year after AEDPA was enacted, and petitioner then had until April 8, 1998, in which to file his federal petition. Snow avers it was "years" after AEDPA was enacted that the prison law librarians recognized this deadline for purposes of PLU status, after the Chief Law Librarian in Sacramento issued a memo describing the deadline. But Snow did not provide a copy of the memo, or the date it issued. Moreover, Snow and petitioner do not declare that there was no copy of AEDPA in the SVSP law library as of 1998. Moreover, even if the law library at SVSP did not have a copy of AEDPA, petitioner was transferred to PVSP on December 29, 1999, from where he filed, in 2000, his prior federal petition, and was specifically informed about AEDPA. Thus, petitioner would not be entitled to tolling beyond 2000 in any event.
For all of the above reasons, petitioner is not entitled to equitable tolling for the seventeen year delay in bringing this action.
Petitioner seeks to compel mental health records from St. Joseph's Medical Center for 1992; from the Sacramento County Jail and the San Joaquin County Jail for 1995, 1996, and 1997; and from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for 1997 through 2010. (ECF No. 27 at 1-2.) He alleges that such records are relevant to his claim for equitable tolling based on a severe mental impairment. (ECF No. 27 at 1.) Petitioner claims that there are missing records which he believes are stored in archives at the CDCR's medical records department. (ECF Nos. 22 at 173-76; 27 at 4.)
Respondent counters that such records are either not directly relevant or have already been provided. (ECF No. 29 at 2.) Petitioner was convicted in 1996; thus, respondent contends that any records from 1992 pre-date his conviction. Records from before 1997 pre-date the relevant one year limitations period that ran from April 9, 1997, to April 8, 1998. (ECF No. 29 at 2, citing ECF No. 11 at 3.) Further, respondent contends he requested and received petitioner's complete mental health records from the beginning of his incarceration in 1996 to the present, and supplied those records as Exhibit A to the reply to opposition filed on February 10, 2016. (ECF No. 29 at 2, citing ECF No. 21 at Ex. A.) Respondent provided a declaration from the custodian of records from the Valley State Prison, confirming that petitioner's complete mental health record was provided. (ECF No. 21-1 at 2.) Moreover, respondent argues that the records petitioner attached to his supplemental opposition refute his claim that he suffered from a severe mental impairment during the relevant time frame. (ECF No. 29 at 3, citing ECF No. 22 at Ex. B.) Thus, respondent contends that petitioner's motion to compel should be denied.
In reply, petitioner provided a corrected address for the production of the records, and avers that "there is a hard copy of [his] medical and mental health records being stored at [CDCR/Division of Correctional Health Care Services] that hasn't been scanned into the medical computer," and believes "the hard copy will have [his] missing mental health records, as described in [his] declaration" attached to his motion to compel. (ECF No. 30 at 4.) In his declaration, petitioner avers that in 1992, he was admitted to the psychiatric ward for more than 30 days at San Joaquin Medical Center in Stockton, California, because of the death of his mother. (ECF No. 27 at 4.) While housed in the San Joaquin and Sacramento County Jails, petitioner received mental health treatment in 1995 through 1997. (ECF No. 30 at 4.) Petitioner declares he was admitted to CDCR custody on or about June 21, 1996, and that since such admission, petitioner avers he has consistently seen mental health professionals for his serious mental disorders and/or to be prescribed psychotropic medications in 1996 up to today. (ECF no. 27 at 4.) Petitioner does not know or understand why there are allegedly missing mental health records, but believes such records are missing for the time frame January 18, 2000, through July 9, 2010, and from March 6, 1997, through February 19, 1998. (ECF No. 27 at 5.) Petitioner declares that during these time frames he was being seen by mental health professionals and/or taking psychotropic medications for his serious mental disorders. (ECF No. 27 at 5.) However, even if he wasn't being seen by mental health professionals or being prescribed psychotropic medications, petitioner believes he was still suffering from serious mental disorders. (
As argued by respondent, petitioner's mental health care prior to his admission to CDCR custody and prior to the relevant time frame here, April 8, 1997, are not relevant. Therefore, petitioner's motion to compel mental health records from the San Joaquin hospital, and the San Joaquin and Sacramento County Jails is denied.
With regard to petitioner's contention that certain mental health care records are missing from the CDCR records provided, he submitted only his own conclusory declaration. Petitioner does not name any of the mental health professionals he alleged treated him from April 8, 1997, to February 19, 1998, if any, or from January 18, 2000, through July 9, 2010, or offer the name of any psychotropic medication he alleges he was prescribed during such time frames that are not included in the records provided, if any. That said, it appears that there are some records missing from the 2007-15 time frame, inasmuch as there are gaps in time in the records where petitioner is taking different medications, but there is no record reflecting the change.
However, respondent adduced evidence that petitioner was housed in general population from February 24, 1998, through March 16, 2007. (ECF No. 21-9 at 3-4.) Petitioner does not demonstrate how he could have been housed in general population during such periods if he was so severely mentally ill.
Finally, as set forth more in detail above, the mental health records that were provided demonstrate that although petitioner suffered from a serious mental illness, he was able to function. He is college educated. Petitioner was able to articulate his concern about certain drugs causing him to gain weight. He realized the importance of losing weight, and began his own program of exercise, running, working out, and yoga, that resulted in a 50 pound weight loss. He refrained from taking certain medication when he believed it had a negative impact on him and sought changes in his mental health care when he, in his opinion, deemed it necessary. Although petitioner did suffer incidents of suicide attempts, as well as periods of crisis where he was admitted to the VPP, and to MHCBs on several occasions, the record reflects that petitioner was relatively stable throughout the limitations period, his cognition was not impaired, and he was able to function. Thus, petitioner's motion to compel the production of further medical records is denied as unnecessary.
For the reasons discussed above, the undersigned finds that this action is barred by the statute of limitations, and petitioner should not be granted equitable tolling for the 17 year delay. In addition, petitioner's motion to compel the production of additional mental health records is denied.
Accordingly, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that petitioner's motion to compel (ECF No. 27) is denied; and
IT IS RECOMMENDED that:
These findings and recommendations are submitted to the United States District Judge assigned to the case, pursuant to the provisions of 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(1). Within fourteen days after being served with these findings and recommendations, any party may file written objections with the court and serve a copy on all parties. Such a document should be captioned "Objections to Magistrate Judge's Findings and Recommendations." If petitioner files objections, he shall also address whether a certificate of appealability should issue and, if so, why and as to which issues. A certificate of appealability may issue under 28 U.S.C. § 2253 "only if the applicant has made a substantial showing of the denial of a constitutional right." 28 U.S.C. § 2253(c)(3). Any response to the objections shall be served and filed within fourteen days after service of the objections. The parties are advised that failure to file objections within the specified time may waive the right to appeal the District Court's order.
