URGENT UPDATE: A Cosa Nostra mafia boss is making headlines with a shocking plea for mental health support, requesting to live alongside notorious cartel leader Joaquín Guzmán, known as El Chapo. James Sabatino, currently incarcerated at the high-security ADX Florence in Colorado, claims that extreme isolation has severely impacted his mental health.
Sabatino, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2017 for orchestrating a $10 million racketeering scheme, has been held under strict communication restrictions as part of his sentencing. His lawyers argue these conditions are detrimental to his well-being, stating that isolation “destroys anyone.”
The appeal, filed on November 13 with District Judge Joan Leonard, requests permission for Sabatino to cohabitate with Guzmán during recreation periods. Both inmates currently have limited interactions, allowed only during weekly sunbathing sessions. Sabatino’s lawyer, Israel Encinosa, emphasized that this request is an “act of humility” aimed at mutual support, highlighting the unique circumstances of both prisoners, who are among the most restricted inmates in the United States.
Sabatino’s conditions at “The Suites,” the Special Housing Unit, are described as nearly complete isolation, spending up to 23 hours a day alone. In his motion, Sabatino contends that the lack of contact with others is causing mental deterioration. His request mirrors a previous filing from March 2023, which sought to allow the two to “recreate in their enclosed separate cages.”
Encinosa told CBS Miami, “They are human beings, they may be flawed individuals, but they should be treated as human beings.” The implications of this request could redefine the terms of isolation for these notorious figures, potentially allowing for a rare form of companionship behind bars.
As the court considers this unprecedented request, the outcome could have significant impacts on the lives of both Sabatino and Guzmán. Observers are closely monitoring developments in this unusual legal battle, which raises questions about the treatment of inmates and the psychological impacts of extreme confinement.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as we await the court’s decision.
