After a period of gang wars and unrest that left a dozen dead in Mississippi’s prisons five years ago, officials are now praising the recent improvements in these facilities. The Mississippi Department of Corrections has focused on changing the culture within the prisons, particularly at Parchman State Penitentiary, which was known for its poor conditions.
Corrections Commissioner Burl Cain has implemented changes, such as remodeling facilities, adding air-conditioning, and increasing the quality of staff hired. This has led to improvements in safety and a decrease in violence within the prisons. Despite these positive changes, challenges remain, such as inadequate staffing levels and concerns about living conditions.
Burl Cain has introduced programs to help inmates gain skills and trades, aiming to turn them into productive citizens upon release. He emphasizes the importance of morality and providing inmates with the tools they need to succeed outside of prison. Additionally, he has prioritized religious programs and the involvement of inmates in counseling and support roles within the prisons.
While progress has been made, some advocates, like Nicole Montagano of Hope Dealers Prison Reform, are still skeptical about the state’s commitment to improving conditions in all areas of the prison system. The future of Mississippi’s prisons remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions about further reforms and potential challenges ahead.
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