This institution lacks central air. It has windows that open to allow air flow in the cells, but the captain barred all the windows. The top window in every cell has a metal bar welded across it, preventing it from opening. The bottom window has a bracket that allows it to open no more that 3 to 5 inches. On top of this, there are no food slots in the doors, which are typically opeened to increase air flow. PLUS this prison lacks duress buttons in the cells for emergencies.
So far, there are three units outfitted this way. When inmates requested BP-8 [complaint] forms, they were denied by their counselors, who said, "Let's just wait to see if the captain changes his mind." The captain told the safety officer to randomly check the temperature in cells, but they only do that when the temps are above 80 degrees. And even then, they are only checking cells with personal fans.
July 2024