Editorial

A message from the Editor-in-Chief

July 21, 2026 by Bostyon Johnson

Walking the yard in early May, I heard recurring themes that we as a newspaper must be aware of, look into, and address. For example: Some of … [Read more...]

About time for changes to a dysfunctional criminal justice system

June 16, 2026 by Kevin D. Sawyer

fAs a sitting governor who has higher political aspirations, he has gone out of his way to make improvements in the Golden State. But like any … [Read more...]

Must be well-read to be a jailhouse lawyer

March 15, 2026 by Kevin D. Sawyer

By Kevin D. Sawyer Two widespread endeavors of active and passive resistance in prison are violence and litigation, respectively. As anyone might … [Read more...]

Banned books in prison deter some readers from historical ‘factual contraband’

February 28, 2026 by Kevin D. Sawyer

In keeping with old traditions, departments of corrections across the country continue to suppress the purchases and possession of book titles that … [Read more...]

Service and pricing could improve if the prison service providers had competition

December 18, 2025 by Kevin D. Sawyer

The unanswered questions about the impending arrival of new tablets in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation cause some anxiety … [Read more...]

Letters to the editor reflect impact of San Quentin News

June 1, 2025 by Kevin D. Sawyer

Letters to the editor do not go unread when they arrive at San Quentin News. The letters are forwarded to us by San Quentin’s public information … [Read more...]

Announcement of American Penal Press Contest coincides with World Press Freedom Day

April 3, 2025 by Kevin D. Sawyer

This month, World Press Freedom Day acknowledges and celebrates journalists from all walks of life. This is the time to support journalists too often … [Read more...]