(Inmate Peltier has given his consent to release the following information.)

The Federal Bureau of Prisons is receiving many inquiries regarding the health and well-being of inmate Leonard Peltier, Register Number 89637-132. This informational release is being provided to all concerned parties regarding the medical status of inmate Peltier.

As with all inmates, it is the health care mission of the Federal Bureau of Prisons to provide necessary medical, dental, and mental health services to inmates by professional staff, consistent with acceptable community standards.

A thorough review of inmate Peltier's medical record reveals he is being provided appropriate medical attention addressing both his medical complaints and his medical condition. A medical assessment at the U.S. Medical Center for Federal Prisoners (USMCFP) in Springfield, Missouri, in 1996, revealed inmate Peltier suffers from ankylosis of the jaw, a condition in which he has stiffening of his mandibular joint which prohibits him from properly opening or closing his mouth.

In February, 1996, inmate Peltier underwent extensive surgery to enable him to open and close his mouth. Following this initial surgery, inmate Peltier was seen on 10 subsequent occasions for manipulation to maintain proper movement of the mandibular joint. Additionally, inmate Peltier received physical therapy twice a day for two months which included the issuance and instruction on the proper use of a dental device to perform personal therapy.

In May, 1996, inmate Peltier had another surgical procedure in which good opening and closing of the mandible was re-established. This was followed by low-dose radiation to reduce the risk of recurrent abnormal bone formation.

In October, 1996, inmate Peltier returned to USMCFP Springfield for the removal of dental arch bars. He then refused further surgical corrections of his jaw although he was advised that the surgery would improve his ability to chew food; as well as, receive proper dental care.

A recent teleconference involving inmate Peltier and medical staff at U.S.P. Leavenworth, Kansas, and USMCFP Springfield deemed that inmate Peltier's condition is stable and does not warrant prolonged, intensive treatment at a Bureau medical facility. As requested by the inmate during the teleconference, consideration for a change in diet is being reviewed.

Inmate Peltier is currently being seen on a regular basis by institution healthcare providers for his medical needs. He is physically able to participate in institution programming and activities.

Inmate Peltier, currently has a projected release date of October 11, 2040, with a parole hearing tentatively scheduled for May of 2000.