Prison Van Ride Hell
A Waikeria minimum security inmate complained to the Inspectorate about inhumane conditions in the back of a prison van he was transported in . e.g. Being in a cage without restraint , constant rattling noise , no water , no urination bag provided , breaks only every 4 hours, being handcuffed although minimum security. The inspector agreed with most of his complaints but was careful to say he had no power to recommend compensation be paid .
As I know only too well , it is only when hefty compensation is paid and individual managers or officers are punished that their behaviour changes . They have too little regard for the Inspectorate or Courts otherwise .
Update of my censorship
Hazel Heal said “They seem determined to hide their own law breaking, and I am just as determined they shall learn lessons, and the public will learn the truth.
“Everyone is at risk until they do – they are in denial about nearly killing Arthur with their restraint techniques.
“This is a leadership issue. Many staff in Corrections are working hard in a very difficult role with humanity and care,
They are badly let down by this culture of hiding the truth. It makes their workplace less safe, more difficult,”
Prison Mail
Both in and out is delivered very promptly at Waikeria . However , we still have arbitrary mail witholding at some other prisons . e.g. I wrote to a Rimutaka inmate about his possible appeal after a Court decision in a joint civil matter. There was a 30 day deadline for such an appeal , but Corrections at Rimutaka withheld my letter to him until after the appeal deadline expired & likewise with his reply to me. However , fortunately , I had filed an appeal anyway to preserve his position .
Arthur Taylor is TDBs Prisoner Rights Blogger currently inside prison.