Stephen Paule Kennedy v. Michael Yeh, et al.

INTRODUCTION

15 Plaintiff Stephen Paule Kennedy alleges that medical staff at Salinas Valley State 16 Prison provided constitutionally inadequate medical care for his broken finger. His first 17 amended 42 U.S.C. § 1983 complaint containing these allegations is now before me for 18 review pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1915A(a). 19 When liberally construed, Kennedy has stated Eighth Amendment deliberate 20 indifference claims against various medical staff at Salinas Valley State Prison. The Court 21 directs these defendants, if appropriate, to file in response to the operative complaint a 22 dispositive motion, or a notice regarding such motion, on or before April 20, 2026. 23 Defendants also shall file an answer in accordance with the Federal Rules of Civil 24 Procedure. 25 No hearing will be held on any motion unless I specifically order one.

DISCUSSION

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