Did Connecticut Officials Just Lock a Political Foe in a Mental Hospital?

This article, written by Dawn Mattos of Griswold, Connecticut, is her first and was driven by a desire to expose what she sees as a serious civil rights violation against her friend and client, John J. Flynn.

John J. Flynn of Norwalk, Connecticut, is a man at the center of a troubling legal and civil rights battle—one that raises urgent questions about freedom of speech, political dissent, and the misuse of mental health institutions in modern America.

Flynn, a businessman, Villanova graduate, and holder of an MBA in Finance, has been an active figure in Connecticut’s political landscape.

A longtime Republican and America First candidate, he was one of five challengers seeking to unseat U.S. Senator Christopher Murphy in 2024.

Flynn previously ran against Senator Richard Blumenthal in 2022, advocating for election integrity, government accountability, and civil liberties.

But as of March 24, 2025, Flynn’s political advocacy came to an abrupt halt for a shocking reason: he is currently being held against his will at Whiting Forensic Mental Hospital in Middletown, Connecticut.

According to Flynn, he was wrongfully charged with assault and trespassing—accusations he fiercely denies.

However, instead of proceeding through the traditional criminal justice system, authorities took the extraordinary step of placing him in a high-security mental health facility.

Friends and supporters argue that this is not about a crime—it’s about politics. Flynn has long been a vocal critic of the political establishment.

He is an active pro-se litigator, representing himself in federal and state courts.

His federal case, 22CV01065, and state case, FST CV 22-5027404-S, both center around election chain-of-custody issues in Connecticut.

Flynn has also questioned why Cast Vote Records, which are critical to election transparency, are routinely destroyed in the state.

Over the years, Flynn has filed numerous lawsuits targeting financial crimes, police misconduct, and corruption at high levels.

Notably, he was the first whistleblower against NASD Chairman Bernie Madoff in 2000 and filed a RICO case against Governor Dan Malloy in 2014 (FST CV 14-5014296). These bold actions have made him a controversial and, some argue, targeted figure.

Now, supporters fear Flynn is being punished for his political beliefs. Forced institutionalization as a result of dissent is a line many believe should never be crossed.

Regardless of political affiliation, no citizen should be involuntarily committed or forcibly medicated for expressing their views—especially a candidate actively seeking public office.

Flynn’s supporters have launched a fundraising effort to secure experienced legal representation and challenge what they see as a gross misuse of power.

Flynn has filed multiple habeas corpus motions, but so far, these legal efforts have not secured his release.

“This is bigger than John,” say the Friends of Flynn. “This is about protecting First Amendment rights, due process, and the ability of any American to run for office without fear of retaliation or silencing.”

Those wishing to support John J. Flynn’s legal battle can contribute to his Legal Defense Fund, which aims to help him regain his freedom, clear his name, and return to the campaign trail to fight for the issues he believes in. https://www.givesendgo.com/freejohnjflynn2025

Stand up for justice. Stand up for civil liberties. Stand with Flynn. Sources referenced include publicly available articles and news reports. All information has been cited to the best of our ability.

-Friends of John J. Flynn-

Dawn Mattos Griswold, CT