In Re Johnny Frank Godfrey, Petitioner, 888 F.2d 1386 (4th Cir. 1989)

Johnny Frank Godfrey, a federal prisoner incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution in Bastrop, Texas, brought this petition for writ of mandamus or prohibition challenging the validity of his conviction and subsequent incarceration for interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle, escape, and related offenses. He sought an order from this Court directing the United States Attorney or the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina to release him from his allegedly unlawful incarceration.

Mandamus relief is not appropriate where there are other means available by which the petitioner could secure the desired relief. In re Beard, 811 F.2d 818, 826 (4th Cir. 1987). As Godfrey may seek the relief he requested under 28 U.S.C. § 2255, the petition for writ of mandamus or prohibition is denied. The motion to proceed in forma pauperis is granted. We dispense with oral argument because the dispositive issues recently have been decided authoritatively.

PETITION DENIED.