NYCLU Challenges Constitutionality of Solitary Confinement

Says the "most severe" punitive measure used in America is used aa a "tool of first resort" for discipline

The New York Civil Liberties Union filed a federal lawsuit Thursday challenging the constitutionality of New York state's policies and procedures governing the use of solitary confinement.

The punishment, which advocates say is psychologically detrimental and is generally the most severe punitive measure in American correctional institutions, is employed as a "disciplinary tool of first resort" alleges the NYCLU, often for non-violent infractions.