January 19, 2022
An inmate at the Adult Correctional Institutions is suing the state Department of Corrections because it has sanctioned him for his hair style, which he says is based on his religious beliefs.
Christopher Banks, 24, of Westerly, seeks in the suit filed in U.S. District Court to remove penalties he’s been given for wearing his hair short on the sides and long on top, the Providence Journal reported Tuesday.
He says he has worn his hair in the style of Viking warriors for many years as a part of his pagan beliefs.
Source: Inmate wants permission for hairstlye based on his religion