Benjamin Edward Schreiber, a prisoner serving a life sentence for first-degree murder, made a remarkable argument: he claimed that his life sentence had ended because he had technically died.
In 2015, Schreiber was hospitalized for septic poisoning and kidney stones, and his heart was restarted five times. Despite a “do not resuscitate” order, medical staff intervened, and Schreiber recovered after surgery and treatment.
Three years later, Schreiber applied for post-conviction relief, asserting that his temporary death meant he had served his life sentence.
However, a judge rejected his claim, stating that Schreiber was either alive and required to remain in prison or deceased, making the appeal moot.
Schreiber’s case raised questions about the nature of life sentences and the consequences of temporary death.
Although his claim was denied, it sparked debate about the limits of punishment and the human experience. Ultimately, Schreiber passed away in April 2023 due to natural causes, leaving behind a complex and intriguing legal legacy.
