My son, Eric Malloy, is living a nightmare, and my heart breaks every day knowing I can't get him the help he needs. While in custody, he overdosed on Fentanyl, at Wilson County Detention Center and suffered a severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) that has left him completely disabled. For 22 long months, he has been confined in Central Prison Hospital, Raleigh, NC as a “Safekeeper,” for Wilson County. As a Safekeeper, he is not allowed access to what little rehabilitation resources that Central Prison Hospital can provide. Without the heightened level of rehabilitation resources, that Eric needs, he may never recover. This is not just a failure of empathy; it's a blatant disregard for human life and dignity. And a clear violation of Eric’s 8th Amendment rights, protecting him from Cruel and Unusual Punishment. Early rehabilitation is critical after a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) because it leverages the brain's heightened neuroplasticity during the initial recovery period to improve long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional outcomes. Early intervention can begin as soon as the patient is medically stable, often while still in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Prisoners, regardless of their past, are entitled to basic human rights, including medical care and rehabilitation. My son is just one of many suffering under these conditions, and his story is a testament to the inhumane treatment that happens behind those walls. Numerous reports and studies have highlighted that good rehabilitation practices can significantly improve patients' quality of life and decrease recidivism. Yet, prisoners in North Carolina are left to languish without the critical support they need.

Our goal is to urge the NC Governor Josh Stein, NC Lt. Governor Rachel Hunt, Carlton L. Stevens – Mayor of Wilson, NC, Jeffery Marsigli - Wilson County District Attorney, Maggie Brewer (NC DAC), Charles Mautz (NC DAC), Attorney General Jeff Jackson (DOJ), the administrators of Central Prison Hospital NC and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety to take immediate action, so Eric can have a fighting chance of a life. (Please see updates, for contact info). Implementing mandatory rehabilitation programs for inmates with severe injuries and disabilities is not only humane but also a step towards reforming the correctional system. However, Eric needs a heightened level of care now! It is a matter of urgency that Eric be placed in a facility that specializes in the treatment of severely disabled traumatic brain injury sufferers! This is a matter of life or death! We demand transparency and accountability in how these facilities operate, ensuring that this fundamental need is met.

The mental and physical health of inmates should be prioritized to grant them a second chance at life. Let us stand with those who can’t stand for themselves and right these wrongs. Help bring attention to this cruelty and demand justice and change. Please sign this petition to advocate for the rights and dignity of my son and others like him.