Ocean County Leader

In a letter addressed to the United States Marshals Service (USMS) and the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), House lawmakers have demanded an explanation regarding reports that two elderly pro-life advocates did not receive necessary medical care while in jail awaiting sentencing. The letter was signed by House Pro-Life Caucus Co-Chairs Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Andy Harris, MD (R-MD); Judiciary Subcommittee Chairs Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Chip Roy (R-TX); and Representatives Harriet Hageman (R-WY), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), and Debbie Lesko (R-AZ).

The lawmakers' demand for answers follows reports that 74-year-old pro-life advocate Jean Marshall was denied hip surgery despite severe hip pain and two emergency room visits since her incarceration. Another pro-life advocate, Heather Idoni—a 59-year-old woman with diabetes who suffered a stroke two weeks ago—claims she has experienced gross medical neglect while incarcerated, including denial of essential prescription medication. This has raised suspicions that her medical records could have been falsified by jail staff.

“We are deeply concerned by reports suggesting that the U.S. Marshal Service did not provide medically necessary health care services to two prisoners in its custody: Ms. Jean Marshall, 74, and Heather Idoni, 59,” the lawmakers wrote to USMS Director Ronald Davis and BOP Director Colette Peters.

The lawmakers requested Director Davis to provide a clear account of the care provided to Ms. Idoni and Ms. Marshall during their time in USMS custody. They emphasized that the U.S. Marshal Services is required to provide appropriate medical care for all prisoners, as per the USMS Policy Directive on Prisoner Health Care Management.

Smith, who authored the letter, revealed that until this week both women had been in USMS custody. Marshall was sentenced yesterday and will serve the remainder of her sentence in BOP custody. Idoni currently remains in USMS custody until her sentencing on May 21.

The lawmakers also requested Director Peters to advise them on the actions the Bureau of Prisons has taken to ensure Ms. Marshall is receiving appropriate care and to provide information on plans for Ms. Idoni's care if she is placed in BOP custody.

The lawmakers referenced Title 28, Part 549 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Federal Bureau of Prisons Program Statement 6031.04, Patient Care, which states that the Bureau of Prisons will provide medically necessary health care to inmates.

Finally, they requested a direct conversation with the directors about the situations of both individuals by no later than May 17, 2024.