Solis

I. Background

Solis is an ex-member of a gang known as the Mexican Mafia, or “La Eme.” He is currently serving a sentence of life without parole as a result of his conviction of first-degree murder. Following his arrest on that charge, Solis was placed in the Los Angeles County jail.

According to Solis, he informed a female intake official during his processing at the jail that he was an ex-member of the Mexican Mafia and was therefore a “high control risk” in need of special protection. The official told him to notify the deputies at his cell block once he arrived. At that time, Solis was required to fill out a “Segregation Assessment” form so that his housing classification could be determined. He stated on the form that he had been affiliated with gangs and that he had never served as a police informant or witness for the state. In response to the question, “Do you fear for your safety while in this facility?” Solis answered “No.” According to Solis, he did fear for his safety but answered “No” because active gang members were present when he was filling out the form, and answering “Yes” would have drawn their attention to him. Solis was placed in Module 4700, which houses…