Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clark says the department’s civil rights department has found that practices at the facility, also known as Parchman, violate the 8th and 14th amendments by failing to provide adequate mental health treatment. protect people at risk of self-harm, subject people to prolonged isolation and inability to protect people from violence by other prisoners.
Twelve people imprisoned in Parchman have died in suicide in the past three years, and 10 others have been killed, according to a Justice Department report.
CNN asked Parchman employees for comment. The Mississippi Corrections Department declined to comment on the Justice Department’s findings.
“The constitution ensures that all people in prisons and prisons are treated humanely, that reasonable steps are taken to keep them safe, and that they receive the necessary mental health care, treatment and services to meet their needs,” Clark said. in a statement. .
“Our investigation has revealed evidence of systemic violations that have created a violent and dangerous environment for the people imprisoned in Parchman. We are committed to taking action to ensure the safety of all people detained in Parchman and other state prisons. We look forward to working with government officials to carry out comprehensive reforms. “
The investigation began in February 2020. The department says it is still investigating the Southern Mississippi Penitentiary, the Mississippi Central Penitentiary and the Wilkinson County Penitentiary.
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