Benny Elmore - D32131 2N23 Oct. 24, 2021 San Quentin, CA. 94974

Humanity?! Here? That is a foreign concept that the light did not find in my cell. Allow me to introduce myself and tell you why I have lost touch with humanity.

My name is Benny Elmore, a 73 year old non-violent three striker with 24 years served. My crime was stealing a $1.16 box of donuts, a petty theft prosecuted as a second-degree robbery.

This is the conviction I was serving when Covid-19 arrived at San Quentin on a prison bus. Shortly thereafter I tested positive in June of 2020 and was placed in quarantine. My medical quarantine was accomplished by housing me in the Hole and all staff knew It was an error to do so.

I was sick with Covid, had difficulty with walking and breathing and yet housed on the third tier. Because it was the hole. Whenever I left my cell I was handcuffed behind my back. In July 2020, I was taken from my cell to use the phone on the first tier. On the return trip the escorting officer told me to navigate the stairs on my own without support while handcuffed.

Out of breath and no balance I fell climbing the stairs, breaking two ribs, my left arm was cut, and my head bounced off the metal steps. I was taken to the hospital for treatment and all is documented. The injury to my head caused numbness and severe pain that continues to this date.

I have remained drug free with no write ups for 5 years. I attend and participate in my treatment program. I don’t know what else to do, my health is failing and time is running out. But truly I would love to experience this human kindness you speak of.

I'll be the first to admit I was left in the 20th century and don’t know how to join the 21st. However I will continue to try. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Benny Elmore