Document: 404 U.S. 53 92 S.Ct. 174 30 L.Ed.2d 209 A. E. SLAYTON, Jr., Superintendent, Virginia State Penitentiaryv.Lawrence Furman SMITH. No. 70—108. Nov. 16, 1971. PER CURIAM. 1 Respondent's petition for habeas corpus alleged, among other things, that he had been tried and sentenced in the state courts by a senile judge. On appeal from District Court's dismissal of without hearing, Court Appeals Fourth Circuit noted remedies not exhausted, expressed its confidence 'if contention is squarely raised, will be willing to afford petitioner reasonable opportunity prove his case,' observed claim judicial senility raised most 'sensitive issue administration criminal justice.' 435 F.2d 453, 460 (1970). Despite these judicious observations underscoring fact this case was ripe federal cognizance, vacated judgment remanded further proceedings with instructions stay until respondent sought relief courts. 2 The Appeals' form 'abstention' perhaps technically consistent statutory prohibition against issuing writ where have exhausted. 28 U.S.C. § 2254. But, having determined would better served policy statute it avoided any implication as merits so delicate subject. Further, absent special circumstances, cf. Nelson v. George, 399 224, 90 1963, 26 578 (1970), Wade Wilson, 396 282, 501, 24 470 rather than ordering retention on docket, should simply lower court directed failure exhaust remedies. 3 motion leave proceed forma pauperis certiorari are granted, vacated, opinion. 4 So ordered. 5 Vacated remanded. 6 Mr. Justice DOUGLAS, whom STEWART joins, believing has all proprieties well requirements Act, affirm judgment.

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