Morales

INTRODUCTION

Plaintiff alleges that a prison guard used excessive force on him in violation of the Eighth Amendment. His 42 U.S.C. § 1983 complaint containing these allegations is now before the Court for review pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1915A(a). Plaintiff has stated an Eighth Amendment excessive force claim against R. Mo- rales, a correctional officer at Salinas Valley State Prison. On or before April 6, 2026, defendant Morales shall file a dispositive motion or a notice regarding such motion rela- tive to the cognizable claim raised in the complaint. Defendant also shall file an answer in accordance with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. No hearing will be held on any motion unless the Court specifically orders one. Plaintiff has consented to magistrate judge jurisdiction for all purposes under 28 U.S.C. § 636(c). (Dkt. No. 4.)

DISCUSSION

A. Standard of Review A federal court must conduct a preliminary screening in any case in which a pris- oner seeks redress from a governmental entity or officer or employee of a governmental entity. See 28 U.S.C. § 1915A(a). In its review, a court must identify any cognizable claims and dismiss any claims that are frivolous,…