Justice Louis York
Bey sued Supreme Court Justice Caruthers for alleged unlawful imprisonment after Caruthers ordered a psychiatric evaluation of Bey, who wished to proceed pro se in his criminal case. After the evaluation, two psychiatrists found him unfit to proceed, as did the ADA, and Bey’s defense attorney, arguing he lacked capacity to understand the proceedings against him or assist in his defense. Caruthers issued an order of commitment. Caruthers moved for summary judgment dismissing Bey’s claims of unlawful imprisonment and motion for immediate release from custody. Caruthers argued the court lacked jurisdiction as the Court of Claims had exclusive authority over suits seeking money damages against the State. The court agreed finding justices of the supreme court were "state officers" acting in their official capacity. Thus, any claims for damages against Caruthers must be brought in the Court of Claims. Also, the court agreed with Caruther’s argument that the supreme court civil term lacked authority to review a decision by the supreme court criminal term, thus it was unable to order Bey’s release as it was without jurisdiction. Finally, the court also ruled Caruthers was entitled to absolute judicial immunity granting dismissal.
