Alabama Inmates Contend with Open-Air Windows: In the northern part of Alabama, temperatures are dropping, with some areas expecting lows in the mid-20s. However, not all prisons in the state are equipped to handle the cold. Inmates at Limestone Correctional Facility near Athens reported that windows in their cells lack glass, leaving only bars to block the chill. Joseph Poe, an inmate at Limestone, mentioned that his window has been open for the entire eight years he’s been there. Despite claims from the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) that only interior windows have bars and pose no heating issues, inmates argue that many exterior windows lack glass or have holes.
Stacy George, a former corrections officer at Limestone, supported the inmates’ claims, noting the absence of glass in many exterior windows. He mentioned the distribution of plastic each year to help block the cold, emphasizing the challenging conditions at Limestone, the most northern correctional facility in the state.
The ADOC spokesperson, Kelly Betts, disputed the inmates’ accounts, stating that there were no broken exterior windows at Limestone and that damages reported would be repaired. She denied the distribution of plastic for windows, contradicting the inmates’ assertions.
Inmate Poe, who has reported the issue multiple times without resolution, expressed frustration with the state agency’s lack of awareness about the conditions at Limestone. The ADOC is currently facing a federal lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice over what it deems unconstitutional living conditions in Alabama prisons. The trial is scheduled for the next fall.
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Inmates have long complained about unlivable conditions in Alabama prisons, with recent social media videos depicting sick individuals without medical attention, rats in cells, and overall filth. Poe highlighted the disconnect between officials and the reality within the prison, noting that while some tours occur, they often avoid the worst areas.
The situation at Limestone adds to the ongoing scrutiny of Alabama prisons, raising concerns about inmate well-being and the need for improvements in living conditions.
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Our Reader’s Queries
How many Alabama prisons have air conditioning?
Alabama Department of Corrections reports that just four out of the 26 prisons in the state have air conditioning in all dormitories.
Can Alabama inmates have cell phones?
According to Alabama Code § 14-11-50 (2012), it is considered a Class C felony for prisoners to have a cell phone, wireless communication device, or computer. It’s also a Class C felony for someone to have or try to deliver these devices to prisoners.
How many people are on death row in Alabama?
Texas leads with 192 prisoners on death row, followed by Alabama with 167 and North Carolina with 140.
Can prisoners go outside?
Prisoners often have the right to spend time outdoors each day, but the amount of time can differ greatly. Some prisons allow outdoor time every day, while others have fewer chances for time outside.