Federal Judge Orders Indiana to Fund Surgery for Convicted Child Killer

A federal judge in Indiana has ordered the Department of Corrections to arrange sex reassignment surgery for Autumn Cordellioné, a transgender inmate convicted of murdering a baby, at taxpayer expense. Judge Richard Young ruled that denying Cordellioné the surgery constitutes cruel and unusual punishment under the Eighth Amendment, despite a state law prohibiting such spending. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a lawsuit on Cordellioné's behalf, arguing that the law violates his rights as it denies necessary medical treatment. The ruling requires the state to ensure the surgery is provided at the earliest opportunity and will be reviewed every 90 days until fulfilled. The case has sparked controversy, with critics questioning the appropriateness of funding surgeries for inmates, particularly those convicted of violent crimes. The legal battle continues amidst discussions about the implications of such rulings on prison policies and taxpayer resources.