El Chapo Sues Over Extreme Solitary Confinement

Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, once a notorious drug lord, is now suing U.S. federal officials over the severe conditions of his confinement at ADX Florence, Colorado. He contends that his extreme isolation and lack of human contact amount to cruel and unusual punishment, leading to alleged sleep deprivation and medical neglect over the past five years.

Serving a life sentence since 2019 in the supermax facility, Guzmán reportedly spends over 23 hours a day alone in his cell. His civil rights complaint details grievances including prolonged sleep deprivation, constant pain without adequate care, and restricted access to family and Spanish-speaking mental health professionals, significantly impacting his well-being.

The lawsuit highlights the stark contrast between Guzmán's past as a powerful cartel leader and his current solitary existence. Despite serving his sentence, he argues that the restrictive Special Administrative Measures prevent meaningful human connection, even with his young daughters, and hinder his ability to learn English or receive appropriate mental health support.