Prison Violence — Ask the Inmate
Violence is a reality of correctional environments that families worry about and that inmates must navigate carefully. Understanding the dynamics of violence inside, the protections that exist, and the practical strategies for staying safe is essential knowledge for anyone entering or already inside a correctional facility. This section covers what types of violence occur inside correctional facilities, how custody level affects exposure to violence, what PREA is and what protections it provides against sexual assault, what gang pressure looks like and how to resist it without creating new problems, when and how to request protective custody, and what families can do when they believe their loved one is in danger. The guidance here is direct and honest because the stakes are too high for anything less. See also our sections on Survive Prison, Prison Discipline, and Immigration Enforcement.
It depends on him. If he is in other inmate's business, they will find a way to be in his business. If he keeps to himself and shows the respect he will not encounter any problems. It is when inmates "big deal" themselves which cause others to investigate their charges that you run into issues. Domestic violence charges are not as dangerous as sodomy potentially could be. Our advice, keep your mouth shut.
Read moreYes, it definitely happens but the prisons handle them differently. There are some designated facilities for sex offenders that keep them away from the inmate population that would take jail yard justice out on these cho mos.
Read morePrison rape is real but it's not pervasive in every facility. Rape can happen to an inmate in a 24-hour DUI holding cell or in a maximum security prison. Surroundings and circumstances are different but the outcome of rape could happen in any one of the fifteen-thousand plus detention facilities in this country.
Read moreIt depends on the level of custody the prison where your cousin is headed as the higher security has longer term sentences with inmates who have little to lose when they fight. However, the conduct inside a prison is nothing like what you see on television. But, fights could occur in any level prison or jail if there are conflicts. The same could happen on a street corner, a restaurant or a store. The likelihood of altercations will depend
Read moreRape in prison is real. New inmates are the most vulnerable. The security level of the prison has some bearing on whether rape is more likely. Rape can be forcible or done through manipulation. If they show kindness or are trying to be helpful, it is only because they want something. And if there offering you protection you can guarantee that there going to seek sexual favors. When an inmate comes in for the first time and doesn't know anyone,
Read moreTV exaggerates the things that happen in prison. Think of prison as a small village with a group of people that have to live there for a while. Somehow, some way, the people figure out how to co-exist. Inmates have a "hustle", a way to get little extras. Some cut hair, some do laundry or clean other's cells. Some cook and sell their food. But there is gambling and contraband peddling. If your inamte gets caught up in that and
Read moreUnfortunately, there is nothing you can do from the outside but complain to the institution. This could have a double-edged result, though. Letting someone in the administration know of these details will certainly shake things up there for a while. They will do shake-downs trying to find the shank. But these things never stay quiet and he could end up having more problems from you saying something than if he just lets it go. It sounds like your son has
Read moreYes, it is possible, but the reality is more nuanced than a simple yes or no and several factors determine how seriously this gets pursued. District attorneys carry enormous caseloads and prosecuting inmates already serving time for a prison fight is not typically a priority unless the circumstances are exceptional. Most fights inside California state prisons are handled administratively through the disciplinary system rather than criminally through the courts. The standard consequence for a fight is loss of good
Read moreFights happen in prison the same way they happen anywhere people are confined together under stress with limited options and no ability to simply walk away. They are a reality of the environment but they are far from inevitable for someone who understands how to navigate the social dynamics inside. The frequency and severity of fighting depend heavily on the security level of the facility. Higher security prisons house people with longer sentences, more serious offenses, and in many
Read moreThe honest answer is that it depends on the facility, but for most people, the reality is nowhere near as bad as what television and movies would have you believe. Scripted prison dramas are built around conflict and chaos because that makes for compelling entertainment. The daily reality for the vast majority of inmates is far more mundane. Most people inside are trying to do exactly what your husband should be focused on, getting through their time with as
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