CALL FOR ACTION
The case of Ruiz vs. Estelle in 1981 highlighted the cruel and unusual punishment that inmates in Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) facilities were subjected to. Unfortunately, it seems that history is repeating itself as the conditions in TDCJ facilities continue to deteriorate, with inmates being forced to endure unacceptable levels of trauma and neglect. We are pleading for immediate action to address the ongoing violations of the 8th Amendment in TDCJ facilities, specifically in McConnell Unit and Connally Unit. The current situation is inhumane and unacceptable, with inmates being forced to witness traumatic events without any intervention from the staff.
Several incidents have taken place recently within TDCJ-McConnell Unit:
1. One alarming incident that recently occurred at McConnell Unit involved inmates witnessing EMTs refusing to remove dead body because body had been unresponsive too long. This kind of situation is not only inhumane but also poses serious risks to the mental health of inmates who are already struggling with the harsh realities of prison life.
2. officers are neglecting their duties by allowing inmates to serve other inmates, which goes against the rules and regulations of the prison system. The lack of supervision and oversight is putting the lives of inmates at risk and creating a dangerous environment within the facilities.
Several incidents have taken place recently within TDCJ-Connally Unit:
1. inmates had to contact their families to inform the front desk about a fellow inmate experiencing seizures because there were no officers present on the cell blocks.
2. Inmates are not receiving adequate meals, with reports of Johnny's sandwiches with just a dab of peanut butter and syrup being served as meals. This is a clear violation of basic human rights and a violation of the 8th Amendment.
3. For last 2 weeks inmates in Buildings 3 & 4 have been complaining about not being able to come out of cell because no officers to work the cell blocks. Officers have been staying in picket and only allow 5 inmates at a time out to get Johnny’s otherwise they are locked up. Why are we treating them like animals but except for the act like angels. THIS IS INHUMANE.!!!
4. This lack of supervision and care has led to violent incidents, including the stabbing death of a G2 by a G4, further emphasizing the urgent need for intervention.
In addition to the physical dangers, inmates are also facing severe food shortages and substandard meals, which only add to their suffering. The disregard for basic human rights and dignity within TDCJ facilities is appalling and cannot be allowed to continue unchecked. The lack of proper care and attention to inmates' well-being has resulted in a rise in drug overdoses, suicides, and violent incidents within the facilities.
We are calling for the Ruiz vs Estelle case to be revisited and for immediate action to be taken to address these ongoing issues. We urge the United States District Court and other judges associated with TDCJ reform to intervene and ensure that the rights of inmates are protected.
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The links provided below is to the Free Texas Campaign blog highlighting the continuous efforts to raise awareness about the issues within TDCJ facilities.
Free Texas Campaign Blog
1. Published on 2/7/24 10:59 AM
https://freetexascampaign.blogspot.com/2024/02/san-antonio-food-bank-is-food-for.html
2. Published on 1/18/24 8:12 AM
https://freetexascampaign.blogspot.com/2024/01/urgent-plea-for-immediate-action.html
3. Published on 11/23/23 7:10 PM
https://freetexascampaign.blogspot.com/2023/11/calling-for-investigations-into.html
4. Published on 12/2/23 3:48 PM
https://freetexascampaign.blogspot.com/2023/12/inmates-at-tdcjs-connally-unit-report.html
5. Published on 2/9/24 2:35 PM
https://freetexascampaign.blogspot.com/2024/02/urgent-action-required-to-address.html
It is crucial that these concerns are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly to prevent further harm and loss of life. Inmates are reaching out for help, but their voices are often silenced or ignored. As advocates for justice and human rights, it is our duty to amplify their voices and demand accountability from those in power. We cannot allow the cycle of abuse and neglect to continue unchecked. We call for the immediate reopening of the Ruiz vs. Estelle case to address the ongoing violations of the 8th Amendment and ensure that necessary reforms are implemented to protect the rights and dignity of all inmates in TDCJ facilities. The time for action is now. Let's make a change before more lives are lost. #JusticeForInmates #ReopenRuizVsEstelleCase
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