The length of time your fiancé will serve in the Arkansas Department of Corrections (ADC) and where he will be housed depend on several factors, including his specific sentence, medical condition, and eligibility for parole or early release.
1. Time Served:
- Sentencing Laws: In Arkansas, offenders typically must serve a certain percentage of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole. For drug offenses, the percentage can vary based on the classification of the crime (e.g., whether it's a Class Y, A, B, or C felony) and whether it was a violent or non-violent offense.
- Parole Eligibility: Non-violent offenders may be eligible for parole after serving 50% of their sentence, but this can change depending on the specifics of the case, criminal history, and institutional behavior.
- Good Time Credits: Inmates can earn "good time" credits, which reduce the amount of time they need to serve. These credits are awarded based on good behavior, program participation, and work assignments. This can significantly shorten the overall sentence.
Given that your fiancé has a serious medical condition, he might qualify for special considerations, such as a compassionate release or medical parole, depending on his health status and prognosis.
2. Housing and Medical Care:
- Medical Needs: Due to his stage 4 pulmonary arterial hypertension and need for 24/7 oxygen and medication, your fiancé will likely be housed in a facility that provides specialized medical care. The ADC has specific units designed to handle inmates with serious health issues, such as the Ouachita River Unit in Malvern, Arkansas, which has an infirmary and specialized healthcare services for inmates with chronic medical conditions.
- Initial Assessment: Upon entering the ADC, your fiancé will undergo a medical evaluation to determine the most appropriate facility for his care. This assessment will take into account his medical history, current health needs, and required treatments, ensuring that he receives adequate care.
Important Considerations:
- Stay Informed: You should stay in regular contact with the ADC and medical staff to ensure that your fiancé's medical needs are being met. It’s crucial to keep copies of his medical records and prescriptions to provide to the facility.
- Legal Assistance: It may be helpful to consult with an attorney who specializes in correctional health care and sentencing laws, as they can offer guidance on potential avenues for early release, medical parole, or sentence reduction based on his health condition.
In summary, while the exact time your fiancé will have to serve depends on several factors, his serious medical condition will likely be a significant consideration in determining both his placement and potential for early release.