The state Legislature is considering filling funding gaps in county services for former state prisoners with mental illnesses by redirecting millions … [Read more...]
Archives for April 2012
California’s Prisoner Segregation Scrutinized
Big changes are on the horizon for California’s solitary confinement policies. In the wake of hunger strikes, public protests and a complaint to the … [Read more...]
Recent State Study Criticizes Offender Classification Practice
The current practice by California prison officials of categorizing and housing some prisoners in higher level institutions than necessary has been … [Read more...]
Life After Murder by Nancy Mullane
Why would five convicted murderers offer a news reporter unfettered access into their life after spending decades behind bars? Radio reporter Nancy … [Read more...]
Over 17 Years Since Singer’s Tragic Death
Last month marked the 17th anniversary of the tragic death of singer and songwriter Selena Quintanella, known as “La Reina de la musica Tejana” – The … [Read more...]
SF Seeks to Build New County Jail
San Francisco officials have taken the first steps to modernize its jail system. The plan was prompted by the aging condition of the Bryant Street … [Read more...]
Environmentalists Visit ‘Green Life’
Last month, two world-renowned environmentalists paid visits to the Green Life program at San Quentin. One might think the environment would be the … [Read more...]
Native American Sues for Ceremonial Tobacco Right
A San Quentin prisoner is suing the California prison system for denying Native Americans the right to use tobacco during religious ceremonies. Daniel … [Read more...]
States Rethink Prison Solitary Confinement
In 1831, French historian Alexis de Tocqueville visited the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, where prison officials were pioneering a novel … [Read more...]
Model Prisoner Vang Paroles After 17 Years
After half his life in prison, Touly Vang is scheduled to parole from San Quentin. He is determined to be a positive role model and a voice that … [Read more...]