West Virginia Jails have failed our state.
Inhumane and Dangerous: West Virginia Jail Living Conditions Exposed
Recent reports have exposed the shocking living conditions found in jails across West Virginia. From overcrowding and inadequate sanitation to a lack of proper medical care and physical safety, the jail living conditions in West Virginia are an affront to human dignity and safety. In this blog post, we'll explore the devastating reality of these inhumane and dangerous jail living conditions in West Virginia and what can be done to improve them.
Unsanitary and overcrowded conditions
The living conditions in West Virginia jails are nothing short of inhumane. In many cases, the conditions that prisoners are subjected to can only be described as torturous. One of the most pressing issues in West Virginia jails is the unsanitary and cramped living conditions.
Inmates in West Virginia jails are often forced to live in cells that are unsanitary and lack basic facilities. Standing water is a common problem in cells, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and viruses. Furthermore, the lack of toilet facilities means that prisoners are often forced to use plastic bags or even buckets as makeshift toilets.
In addition to these issues, black mold is a widespread problem in West Virginia jails. This mold can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and even neurological problems. Inmates are often exposed to this mold for prolonged periods of time, which can lead to serious health problems.
Another issue that prisoners in West Virginia jails face is broken guard call buttons. This means that if an inmate needs assistance, they may not be able to contact a guard for help. This can be particularly dangerous if an inmate is experiencing a medical emergency or if they are being subjected to verbal or physical abuse by other inmates.
Finally, overcrowding is a significant problem in West Virginia jails. This means that prisoners are often forced to share cramped cells with multiple other inmates, which can lead to tensions and conflicts. In some cases, overcrowding can also lead to a lack of access to basic necessities like bedding and toiletries.
Overall, the unsanitary and overcrowded living conditions in West Virginia jails are a significant concern. These conditions not only violate the basic human rights of prisoners, but they also put them at risk for serious health problems and abuse. It is crucial that steps are taken to improve these conditions and ensure that prisoners are treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve.
Lack of medical care
One of the most egregious aspects of the living conditions in West Virginia jails is the lack of adequate medical care. When inmates enter the jail system, they often have pre-existing medical needs that require regular medication and/or medical equipment. However, it is not uncommon for inmates to be denied access to these critical healthcare items.
As a result of this denial, many inmates suffer from health crises and even die from their medical conditions. The denial of necessary medical care is especially harmful for inmates with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or asthma. Without proper medical attention, their conditions can worsen rapidly, leading to dangerous health complications.
In addition to the lack of necessary medication and equipment, inmates who suffer from injuries sustained inside the jail system are also often denied healthcare. This neglect can lead to infection, medication withdrawal, and even death. With no access to quality medical care, inmates who are injured or become ill in jail are left to suffer with no relief in sight.
It's important to remember that these inmates are human beings and deserve access to proper healthcare. It is inhumane to deny them the care they need and the consequences can be dire. The West Virginia jail system needs to make significant changes to ensure that inmates receive the medical attention they require to stay healthy and safe.
If you or a loved one have been incarcerated in a West Virginia Jail within the last two years, or are currently incarcerated, call our office for a free consultation.
