Heck v. Humphrey and Sexual Predators

In this case, we must decide a question of first impression: Does the favorable termination rule of Heck v. Humphrey, 512 U.S. 477 (1994), apply to civil commitments under California’s Sexually Violent Predators Act? We conclude that the Heck rule applies. We therefore affirm the district court’s dismissal of Huftile’s § 1983 action for damages and declaratory relief. However, we reverse the dismissal of his claim for prospective injunctive relief under Heck, and remand for further proceedings concerning this form of relief.

Huftile v. Miccio-Fonseca (CA9).