Two weeks ago, I requested a BP-8 and BP-9 from our unit team as part of the administrative grievance process and I have never received either document. Currently, many individuals confined at USP Big Sandy suffer from chronic mental health disorders and/or drug addictions. The administrative staff are attempting to pit those who do not suffer from these disorders or addictions against those who actually do and are not being adequately treated. Yesterday, the afternoon officer kept the entire unit on lockdown while the rest of the compound was out due to some individuals he perceived to be “high” during the 4 p.m. count time. The offer told the rest of us that they should assault thos who are “high” or else he’s going to lock down the entire unit every day.
Previously, individuals have been taken out of the unit for allegedly being “high” but they were returned when they had negative results on a urine test. Individuals who were taken out under the allegation of being high have been assaulted by staff, including being shot with paint ball guns and dragged out.
Two weeks ago, I requested a BP-8 and BP-9 from our unit team as part of the administrative grievance process and I have never received either document. Currently, many individuals confined at USP Big Sandy suffer from chronic mental health disorders and/or drug addictions. The administrative staff are attempting to pit those who do not suffer from these disorders or addictions against those who actually do and are not being adequately treated. Yesterday, the afternoon officer kept the entire unit on lockdown while the rest of the compound was out due to some individuals he perceived to be “high” during the 4 p.m. count time. The offer told the rest of us that they should assault those who are “high” or else he’s going to lock down the entire unit every day
Big Sandy is not staffed adequately with psychologists or counselors. Therefore, we are not responsible for what others do to cope with their medical disorders or drug addictions.
When the drug addiction issues outweigh the number of staff who can address them, then the responsibility is placed among the population. I estimate that at least six out of every 10 individuals have either a mental health issue or drug addiction at this institution. One of the top causes is the lockdowns and lack of communication/connection with family or the outside world.
Previously, individuals have been taken out of the unit for allegedly being “high” but they were returned when they had negative results on a urine test. Individuals who were taken out under the allegation of being high have been assaulted by staff, including being shot with paint ball guns and dragged out.