Justice Thomas Astaphan Expresses Concerns Over Prison Conditions and Inmate Population
Justice Thomas Astaphan recently expressed grave concerns about the conditions and inmate population at the Dominica State Prison during a court session. Superintendent of Prisons, Kenrick Jean Jacques, confirmed that financial constraints have been affecting the smooth operations of the prison, leading to challenges in providing adequate resources and meals.
The expansion of the buffer zone and remand center is ongoing, with hopes of completion by the end of 2023. Despite these efforts, the remand population continues to increase, with 115 inmates, including 35 mentally ill individuals, posing a serious concern. The unauthorized entry of articles into the prison compound has also become an ongoing issue.
During the court session, it was revealed that the prison population stood at 240 inmates, consisting of 237 males and 3 females. Of these, 16 foreign nationals from various countries were incarcerated. The lack of care for mentally ill inmates and the high number of individuals on remand raised alarms for Justice Astaphan, urging immediate attention and action.
The outgoing high court Judge also commended the media for their coverage of the High Court and urged lawyers to speak out against pressing issues in society. He highlighted the importance of addressing the needs of mentally ill inmates and providing compensation for individuals summoned for jury duty.
Superintendent Jean-Jacques shed light on developments in the prison, including the Animal Housing Program, Buffer Zone, and housing for remand prisoners. However, he also acknowledged challenges such as the growing remand population and the need to train officers to handle mentally challenged individuals.
The recent protest in the maximum security block drew attention to issues such as the improvement of prison rules and meal quality. The prison continues to face challenges in maintaining order and meeting the needs of its inmate population.
As the situation at the Dominica State Prison remains a matter of concern, Justice Thomas Astaphan emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues and improving conditions for inmates and staff alike.
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