Sandra Valentino highlights challenges faced by inmates at High Desert prison facility

Concerns over the impact of recent prison relocations took center stage at the Board of Prison Commissioners meeting on December 20, 2024. The discussion highlighted significant unintended consequences following a mass move of inmates, particularly affecting those who were not directly involved in the reasons for the relocation.

A key speaker raised alarms about the "aftershock" of these moves, noting that many inmates at High Desert State Prison are still facing harsh conditions despite the intention to return to normal operations. The speaker pointed out that some inmates, previously deemed high-security risks and moved out of state, are now thriving in other facilities, prompting questions about the effectiveness of Nevada's correctional system.

At High Desert, inmates who were not moved are reportedly still being subjected to excessive restraints, such as belly chains and shackles, for basic activities like showering and making phone calls. This situation has raised concerns about the treatment of medium-security inmates who are being mixed with those in higher security classifications, leading to a regression in their living conditions reminiscent of the restrictions seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The speaker also criticized the implications of recent legislative changes, specifically SB 307, which redefined solitary confinement. Many inmates at High Desert are reportedly enduring conditions akin to solitary confinement for extended periods, raising ethical questions about their treatment.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for a reevaluation of the current prison policies and practices to ensure the humane treatment of all inmates and to address the systemic issues that have emerged in the wake of the mass relocations. As discussions continue, the implications for inmate welfare and the overall effectiveness of the correctional system remain a pressing concern for Nevada's prison officials and advocates alike.