Emails obtained by The Appeal revealed that staff at Red Onion State Prison, Virginia, discussed charging six inmates for medical care after they self-immolated in protest of "intolerable" conditions. An assistant warden suggested prosecuting them and imposing restitution if convicted. While no restitution was applied, the inmates faced disciplinary action.
Kyle Gibson, a Virginia Department of Corrections spokesperson, explained that while restitution is permissible under policy, senior leadership never considered it in these cases. He emphasized, "The VADOC has zero tolerance for abuse of any kind."
The inmates and advocates highlighted long-term solitary confinement, inadequate medical care, and allegations of mistreatment. Virginia Del. Michael Jones, after visiting the prison, reported injuries caused by prison dogs and complaints of poor food, racism, and healthcare.
Solitary confinement, a key issue, prompted a 2019 ACLU lawsuit. Gibson countered claims, stating inmates receive "at least four hours out-of-cell daily," exceeding American Correctional Association standards. Yet, the ACLU argues the prison's "Step-Down Program" equates to indefinite solitary.
One inmate, Ekong Eshiet, said he faced retaliation after protesting, alleging officers tampered with his food and destroyed personal items. Kevin Johnson, a former prisoner, publicly accused the prison of widespread abuse. The VADOC dismissed his credibility, citing extensive institutional charges.
Jennifer Dalton, from the Virginia Justice Alliance, highlighted the case of Levi Springer, who spent over a decade in solitary. She claimed medical neglect led to further segregation after a violent incident. The VADOC disputed this timeline, saying Springer spent only nine months in restrictive housing.
Virginia's corrections ombudsman, Andrea Sapone, announced an investigation into Red Onion's conditions, set to begin after her office is fully staffed.
Link: NBC News
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