Hello, I am Patrice Copening and my sister is Britney Foote. We decided to start a petition on Change.org for my brother Stephen Copening so that he may be released from the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center. We want Stephen released from this prison because this correctional facility is not capable of caring for his needs due to his psychological disorder. We believe that Governor Jack Markell and Commissioner Robert Coupe can bring about this change.

Since my brother was a teenager he has been in and out of group homes, psychiatric centers, and prisons due to being diagnosed with Paranoid Schizophrenia. In December of 2011, Stephen was arrested for a petty theft crime. He was accused of stealing two dollars from a man, when in fact he had over thirty dollars in his pocket at the time. Since his arrest he has only been to a preliminary hearing, and the presuming judge stated, "Stephen needs to be held at the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center until he becomes competent enough to stand trial." I don't understand how any judge could render such a decision without using better judgment or discretion. However, this decision is violating my brother's constitutional right to a speedy trial as well as his civil rights.

In December of 2011, Stephen was released from prison for a week without any antipsychotics. He weighed between 140 to 150 pounds; he walked with a noticeable limp; and he looked partially blind in his left eye. I also noticed bruises on his face and body, seeing the state that my brother was in caused alarm, because his normal height and weight is 6'3" and approximately 260 pounds. Stephen has been incarcerated for the last two years and my mother has only seen him once. She has not been able to visit Stephen since the last visit because the prison staff claims he can no longer have visits. They never give any explanations as to why, but his counselor who my mother has contacted on numerous occasions claims that he is doing fine but that is all he can reveal because of HIPAA Laws.

The reason for this petition is because I received word that my brother is 90 pounds. This seems absurd when I have a child who weighs just about the same weight. Without the help of the public and proper healthcare, I believe the reality of my brother's situation will become more grim and he may die. My sister and I hope that this petition will reach those who are in power to bring about change. This petition could be a catalyst for people who are in prison that have psychological disorders that may not have a voice so it is up to us the people to make sure that they have the same rights as us. Please sign our petition asking the Governor of Delaware and the Commissioner of the Delaware DOC to free Stephen Copening. Thank you for your help and support in advance.