Disables Female Inmate
Sues for Access to Services
(Because she is hearing impaired, she needs a sign language interpreter)

June 18, 2002

HONOLULU - A disabled inmate at the Women’s Community Correctional Center has filed suit against the Department of Public Safety and Hawaii Paroling Authority alleging she was denied equal access to facilities and services.

Charing Bernard, who is hearing impaired, filed the class-action lawsuit in U.S. District Court today, alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Bernard has been unable to participate in educational, rehabilitative, and religious activities and services because the state has denied her the services of a qualified interpreter, said Stan Levin, one of two attorneys representing her

email Stan Levin