Pierce v. District of Columbia

William Pierce (plaintiff) was a deaf man who was arrested and incarcerated in the District of Columbia (district) (defendant). Pierce communicated using American Sign Language (ASL) and had demonstrated difficulty communicating in English through other methods like lip reading or handwritten notes. After arresting Pierce, the prison staff did not evaluate Pierce’s need for possible accommodations or ask Pierce about what auxiliary aids he required. The prison did not consult with disability experts or with the Department of Corrections’ policies to determine routine accommodations for prisoners with hearing disabilities. At his initial intake interview and several times during his imprisonment, Pierce requested an ASL interpreter so that he could effectively understand and communicate during medical appointments, rehabilitation classes, and meetings with prison officials. The prison staff ignored or denied each request, deciding that Pierce could sufficiently communicate through lip reading and written notes. Pierce filed suit against the district, arguing that the prison staff violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act by discriminating against him and denying him meaningful access to prison services, programs, and activities. The district and Pierce moved for summary judgment.