The incident described in “The Hard Cell” (6/20) is one of the many unfortunate ones that we have to hear about in the corrections system. However, it is an example of how corrupt the industry is. Privatization is the worst! We need to have more structure in jails and penitentiaries. By no means should an inmate with medical conditions be kept with someone who is not being treated for a medical condition.
Perhaps you are one of those less violent criminals, like the gentleman in the article. Now you are subject to unsafe, life-altering conditions, all for a traffic violation or missed court date. Not to mention the “crazies” and rapists you are forced to reckon with.
Complete health exams are not given to inmates upon entering the jail system. So whatever they are afflicted or infected with when they come in, it either gets worse or they spread it to others. To those who say there is no money for such programs, I say: Cut out the cable TV, weights, and other extras that are provided for inmates. You can’t tell me the cable companies give free service.
As for the money that inmates earn for canteen, which provides them with cigarettes, candy, and other goodies that tend to lead to fights or “trade,” that money should go toward medical and other necessities that could benefit them while they are incarcerated. I realize that they are not earning 35K, but coins add up!
By far, the United States has the worst correctional system. There is no rehabilitation, conditions are unsanitary, and there is basically no structure. And yet the people and companies that own these facilities are getting paid like the fat rats they are. As far as state-owned facilities, if my tax money is being used to enhance the education of felons, I’m pissed! You are a criminalyou have committed a felony against societyso your privileges are minimum. Make them work for their education, just as some of us have to do. It’s amazing how we can go and take over countries but we cannot take control over our own corrections system.
Reston, Va.