Cavanaugh, who is from Grand Island, said he had openly declared his belief in the Flying Spaghetti Monster before he went to prison and that he has "prominent tattoos proclaiming his faith." He is serving four to eight years for attempted first-degree assault and weapons convictions out of Hall County for chasing a married couple with a hatchet in 2012.

In the lawsuit, Cavanaugh says he wants the same religious privileges as other groups.

He isn't asking the state to pay for his regalia, he wrote in the lawsuit, only that he be able to buy it himself.

For the alleged discrimination, he is seeking $5 million in damages for pain and suffering, plus punitive damages.

Cavanaugh said he's been forced to choose between angering his god by not being able to preach and demonstrate his faith, and angering his god by doing so in a disrespectful manner.

"This has caused (me) no end of stress and spiritual pain."

Reach the writer at 402-473-2657 or rjohnson@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSRileyJohnson.

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