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Families and advocates tell prison commissioners of poor medical care, food and conditions after mass transfers
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Summary
Dozens of family members and Return Strong volunteers told the Board of State Prison Commissioners that medical neglect, inadequate nutrition and unsanitary conditions have worsened following a mass transfer of incarcerated people. Speakers called for immediate corrective action and clearer oversight.
Family members and advocates told the Board of State Prison Commissioners on Dec. 19 that medical care, nutrition and living conditions in Nevada prisons are worsening after recent mass transfers.
Laurie Beecher Valenzuela of Return Strong read a letter from a mother alleging “a lack of adequate medical care and the appalling quality of food,” calling the conditions “inhumane.” Several commenters said requests for care go unanswered and that meals served are sometimes “not fit for human consumption.”
Relatives described specific incidents. Laurie Roble said her nephew at Southern Desert Correctional Center missed insulin and went weeks without blood-pressure medication; she asked the board to “intervene” to prevent further harm. Christine Essex, whose son is an amputee with seizure disorders, said he was left five days without medication at High Desert and urged release to a guardian if necessary for care.
Return Strong volunteers reported hundreds of letters documenting systemic failures. Nicole Williams, the organization’s mail coordinator, said Return Strong has received 1,134 letters from people across the state, with complaints including filthy cells, nonfunctioning toilets, lack of hot water, inadequate laundry services, limited yard time and delayed medical and mental-health treatment.
Speakers described alleged safety problems tied to the transfers. Kale Casorso recounted a letter alleging use of force and a failure to record incidents because cameras were not functioning; he said staff reportedly used a CERT response that involved stun devices and beatings. Morgan Darcy contrasted care at an out‑of‑state facility, saying a transferred loved one received better dental, outdoor time and programming after the move.
Parents and family members detailed small portions and repetitive, low‑calorie meals. Tammy Berg read a typical menu that included powdered eggs, juice packets and small meat patties and said families now supplement commissary purchases so loved ones are not starving.
Speakers repeatedly urged that oversight mechanisms be made accessible. Tanya Brown and other advocates said the ombudsman created by AB452 is not visible on NDOC channels and that grievances have been mishandled, which can affect parole and pardon outcomes.
The board did not take action on the public comments during the meeting; members and staff responded to several specific operational questions later in the agenda.
