Consider This from NPR COVID-19 Inmate Deaths in Prisons
Mar 8, 2022
Meg Anderson, an NPR reporter who investigated inmate deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, uncovers the grim realities of federal prisons. Nearly 300 inmates, mainly elderly or with pre-existing conditions, died from the virus despite the Bureau of Prisons claiming to have control measures in place. The discussion reveals systemic failures, the struggles inmates faced in obtaining compassionate release, and highlights personal stories of despair, like Waylon Youngbird's heartbreaking plea for home confinement amidst a deadly outbreak.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Waylon Youngbird's Story
- Waylon Youngbird, a high-risk inmate, wrote to a judge requesting home confinement due to COVID-19 fears.
- He was denied and died from COVID-19 in prison, highlighting the struggles of inmates seeking release during the pandemic.
BOP's Pandemic Response
- The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) claimed to have a pandemic plan, but records show a different story.
- Despite many high-risk inmates applying for compassionate release or home confinement, nearly 300 died from COVID-19.
Strict Criteria for Home Confinement
- The BOP implemented strict criteria for home confinement, including inmates serving half their sentences.
- Former warden Maureen Baird criticizes this, citing elderly, non-dangerous inmates still incarcerated.