NCJ Number
93319
Journal
Prison Journal Volume: 63 Issue: 2 Dated: (Autumn/Winter 1983) Pages: 88-98
Date Published
1983
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Interviews with four women on death row in the summer of 1983 explored the characteristics of their cells, daily schedules, clothing and linens, the commissary and money, visiting and mail, institutional programs and services, meals, health services, legal advice, and religious services.
Abstract
The four women interviewed were among 13 on death row in the summer of 1983. While the other nine were contacted, they did not consent to be interviewed. The cells were of concrete block, with lavoratory and sleeping provisions. Some had tables and chairs as well as lockers. The women spent between 22 and 24 hours a day in their cells. The daily schedule was unstructured except for meals, and contact with other inmates was almost nonexistent. All of the women were required to wear prison-issued clothing. Everything the inmates used was purchased by them from the commissary from a 'trust fund' account. Family and friends deposit money in these accounts. One informant reported she was allowed two visits a month, each for 4 hours. A glass separates visitors and inmates. Mail is always logged and censored, and stamps and paper must be purchased. Mail was extremely important to the informants, since it was the major form of regular communication with others. Inmates on death row were not allowed to mingle with inmates from the general population, and they did not work or have access to prison recreation equipment and activities. Access to medical treatment was limited. Although all knew their cases were in the process of appeal, none had a comprehensive understanding of the legal statuses of their cases. The lawyers were not seen more than once every few months. Religion played an important part in the lives of all the informants, and there were opportunities to attend religious services. Nine bibliographic listings were provided.