We are compiling a list of news articles, guidance and other resources from around the world on COVID-19 and prisons. This will be updated regularly.
International resources
WEPHREN are collating guidance and other resources on managing COVID-19 in prisons and places of detention from various countries and organisations which can be found here.
The ICPA has a resource page here
Prison Insider is collating information on the measures being taken in different countries here
COVID-19 Behind Bars is an independent journalism project tracking jails, prisons, detention centers, and other facilities of incarceration impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic. Link here
The European Prison Observatory has a webpage on COVID-19: What is happening in European Prisons? which can be found here
The Association for the Prevention of Torture has developed a Covid-19 And Persons Deprived Of Liberty Information Hub available here
Europris have a dedicated COVID-19 page here
The Amend Team is developing real-time strategies and guidance for correctional facilities grappling with the life threatening challenges of COVID-19 here
The Fair Trials Covid-19 Justice Project can be found here
Information on measures being taken by different countries in dealing with the pandemic in prisons can be found here
Justice Project Pakistan has produced a live global map which is tracking reported cases of prisoners testing positive and dying of the virus across the world. You can view the map here
The Independent Advisory Panel on Deaths in Custody has a Coronavirus Information Hub which can be accessed here
A special open access issue of the Victims and Offenders journal has been published focussing on the impact of the pandemic in prisons in a number of countries. The journal can be accessed here
The Council of Europe has published a report on "Prisons and Prisoners in Europe in Pandemic Times: An evaluation of the medium-term impact of the COVID-19 on prison populations" which is available here
Policy statements and guidance
The WHO has issued guidance on Preventing COVID-19 outbreak in prisons which can be found here
The European Committee for the Prevention of Torture has issued a statement of principles relating to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in the context of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic which can be found here
Penal Reform International have produced a briefing note on Coronavirus: Healthcare and human rights of people in prison here
The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights has issued a statement here
UNODC has published a position paper on Position Paper on COVID-19 preparedness and responses in prisons here
On 23 March the Regional Penitentiary Academy for Latin America organised a virtual conference of senior prison administrators in the region to discuss the issue of Covid 19 and to learn from each other about initiatives to manage the situation in prisons. Professor Andrew Coyle was invited to set the scene for the conference and a copy of his statement is available here
The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative has published a report on COVID - 19 and Prisons in the Commonwealth: Ensuring An Effective Response here
Children in detention are at heightened risk of contracting COVID-19 and should be released: Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore here
Physicians for Human Rights Israel has published a report on Health Remanded to Custody: The Future of the Prison Health Care System in Israel which can be found here
News articles from 13 March - 30 November 2020 can be found here
News 21 January
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 exacerbates ‘filthy and inhumane’ conditions in Montreal jail
https://ricochet.media/en/3830/covid-19-exacerbates-filthy-and-inhumane-conditions-in-montreal-jail
US - North Dakota prison system feeling impact of omicron variant
https://www.westport-news.com/news/article/North-Dakota-prison-system-feeling-impact-of-16791114.php
US (California) - Gavin Newsom Is Fighting A Vaccine Mandate For Prison Staff — At The Expense Of Prisoners
US - Florida Prisoners Lack Access to COVID Boosters Amid Omicron Uptick
https://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/florida-prisoners-booster-shots-covid-19-13652844
Asia
India - Only 39 per cent fully jabbed in 3 Delhi prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Victims face waits of nearly two years to get justice in crown courts
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/victims-face-waits-nearly-two-22820380
News 20 January
Americas
Canada - 28 inmates catch COVID-19 at federal prison in B.C.'s Fraser Valley
Canada - Over a dozen inmates, staff at central Ontario jail test positive for COVID-19
US - Jails In Jeopardy Following New Treasury Rule: Federal Covid Relief Must Help People
US - Current COVID surge also affecting Indiana prisons
https://www.wfyi.org/news/articles/covid-cases-indiana-prisons
Asia
India - Yerawada jail officials seek for more space as Covid cases rise
Europe
Forcing jab will only worsen jail overcrowding: Belgian MP
https://www.brusselstimes.com/202256/forcing-jab-will-only-worsen-jail-overcrowding-belgian-mp
Italy - COVID jail inmate cases more than doubles in 10 days
Scotland - More than 200 inmates isolating after latest outbreak hits HMP Perth
https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/courts/2924601/perth-prison-covid-lockdown/
News 19 January
Americas
US (Michigan) - Corrections Department eases rules for COVID-positive prison officers to go back to work
US - Michigan prisoners wait for classes needed to be released
https://www.wilx.com/2022/01/18/michigan-prisoners-wait-classes-needed-be-released/
US - Visits suspended at Idaho prison as COVID cases rise, vaccine and booster requests mount
https://www.idahostatesman.com/opinion/from-the-opinion-editor/article257340757.html
US - COVID-19 spreading rapidly in Illinois prisons
Asia
India - Covid centres, constant watch, doctors on duty — how crammed Delhi prisons are tackling 3rd wave
India - Mumbai: Video call facility between prisoners and their relatives resumes
Europe
Turkey - ‘Roof leaks, insects crawl in prison’s quarantine ward’
News 18 January
Mental health care for detainees failing worldwide
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-01-mental-health-detainees-worldwide.html
Americas
St Lucia - BCF Official Supports Electronic Monitoring For Low-Risk Offenders
https://stluciatimes.com/bcf-official-supports-electronic-monitoring-for-low-risk-offenders/
US - Arizona prison to stop accepting nonviolent offenders due to COVID outbreak
US - Detainees Sue Arkansas Jail That Gave Them Ivermectin to Treat Covid
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/17/us/ivermectin-covid-arkansas-jail.html
Europe
England and Wales - Magistrates to be given power to jail offenders for up to a year to help clear court delays
Guernsey Prison bans visitors and enters special measures after Covid cases
Oceania
New Zealand - Calling home: Why phone access for prisoners matters
https://www.newsroom.co.nz/calling-home-why-phone-access-for-prisoners-matters
News 15 – 17 January
Africa
South Africa - Prisons Accused Of Using Solitary Confinement As Torture: Oversight Body
https://ewn.co.za/2022/01/16/prisons-accused-of-using-solitary-confinement-as-torture-oversight-body
Americas
Barbados - Prison Service lauded for controlling outbreak
https://www.nationnews.com/2022/01/17/prison-service-lauded-controlling-outbreak/
Canada - More than half of prisoners at Burnside jail have had COVID-19
Canada - Nearly 30 per cent of Ontario jail inmates are in COVID-19 isolation
Massive drop in US prison population unlikely to hold post-pandemic
https://www.thejusticegap.com/massive-drop-in-us-prison-population-unlikely-to-hold-post-pandemic/
US (North Carolina) - NC prisons chief on COVID: ‘We’ve scrambled, improvised ... and learned from mistakes’
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/opinion/article257290287.html
US - In-person visits suspended at Wisconsin prisons as COVID-19 cases triple among inmates in 1 week
Asia
India - COVID-19: Madhya Pradesh government bans visitors from meeting jail inmates till March end
India - Delhi: Over 90 inmates, 80 jail staffers have tested positive for Covid-19
Iran -Covid-19 outbreak spreading women’s ward of Sepidar Prison of Ahvaz
https://iran-hrm.com/2022/01/16/covid-19-outbreak-spreading-womens-ward-of-sepidar-prison-of-ahvaz/
Maldives - Maafushi Prison brought under state of emergency due to Covid-19 outbreak
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Disgraceful’ Covid-19 restrictions on children in prison to end in March
Ireland - Covid-19 outbreak team reactivated at one of Portlaoise's jails
News 14 January
Africa
Inmates stage riot in Kenyan prison
https://newsaf.cgtn.com/news/2022-01-14/Inmates-stage-riot-in-Kenyan-prison-16NBudxQC8E/index.html
Americas
Omicron variant causes full lock-down at Belize Central Prison
Canada - Indigenous Inmates Testing Positive For COVID-19 At Higher Rates In Federal Prisons – National
US - Prison Population Drops as States Revamp Admission Policies
https://www.governing.com/community/prison-population-drops-as-states-revamp-admission-policies
US - New Rule Makes Thousands of Federal Inmates Eligible for Release
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/13/us/politics/federal-prisoners-release.html
US - COVID Cases Triple In California Juvenile Prisons
https://laist.com/news/criminal-justice/covid-cases-triple-in-california-juvenile-prisons
US - Significant COVID-19 outbreaks reported at New Orleans jail, Louisiana state prisons
Asia
India - Physical meetings with family and lawyer stopped, but phone call facility yet to resume: Inmates to court
Malaysia - Virtual hearings the way forward post-Covid-19 pandemic, says Chief Justice
Europe
England and Wales - 'Fear, isolation and distress': Pentonville Prison during Covid-19
https://www.islingtongazette.co.uk/news/health/pentonville-prison-covid-report-8619484
England and Wales - Hindley Prison told to increase face-to-face education for inmates
Oceania
Australia - NT youth detainees test positive for COVID
News 13 January
Americas
Although increasingly authoritarian, Ecuador is unable to get a grip on its prison problem
Jamaica - Stand Up for Ja renews call for early prison release amid COVID outbreak
US - Prison Reforms Since COVID Called Uneven, ‘Disheartening’
US - Omicron hits Michigan's prisons, which rank second in nation for COVID cases
US - Washington prisons close to visitors through Feburary at the earliest due to Omicron outbreaks
US (Oregon) - State corrections reports spike in Covid cases among employees, people in prison over past two weeks
Asia
Probe into deadly riots at prisons in Philippines
https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/185160/probe-into-deadly-riots-at-prisons-in-p-pines/
Europe
France - En prison, alerte sur "l'épuisement physique et moral" des détenus
Ireland - No temporary release for Limerick prisoners despite Covid cases
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40783602.html
At least 59 ill prisoners lost their lives in Turkey in a year
Oceania
Australia - Visits suspended at multiple Queensland Correctional Centres
https://www.miragenews.com/visits-suspended-at-multiple-queensland-706316/
News 12 January
Americas
US - As COVID Cases Spike, Federal Bureau Of Prisons Is Not Releasing Eligible Inmates
US - Omicron wreaks havoc across California prison facilities as staff cases surge
US - While Active Cases Remain Low, Omicron Threat Looms in Oklahoma Prisons
US (Nebraska) - Overcrowded and understaffed, prisons costly for taxpayers; unsafe for prisoners and guards
US - Illinois prisons pause county intakes due to pandemic
US (New York) - Rikers inmates on hunger strike to protest conditions, COVID lockdown
Europe
European Prisons Push Back Against COVID-19
England and Wales - Covid-19 restrictions 'caused increase in violence at women's prison'
England and Wales - HMP Hewell: Troubled prison improving but problems persist
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-59954611
News 11 January
Americas
British Virgin Islands - Court hearings move online, prison visits suspended amid COVID surge
https://bvinews.com/court-hearings-move-online-prison-visits-suspended-amid-covid-surge/
US (Wisconsin) - Inmates Flood Toilets to Protest Food, Hygiene Issues as Omicron Fuels Staffing Shortage
US (Nevada) - Prison system details rise COVID-19 cases that led to halt in visitations
US - More than 3,800 California prison staffers have coronavirus amid massive surge this month
Asia
India - Central jail authorities revive anti-Covid measures
Philippines - Rights group says PH jails ‘least safe from Omicron’
https://www.bulatlat.com/2022/01/11/rights-group-says-ph-jails-least-safe-from-omicron/
Europe
Ireland - Mass testing after Covid cases detected in Limerick Prison
https://www.limerickpost.ie/2022/01/10/mass-testing-after-covid-cases-detected-in-limerick-prison/
Scotland - 'Credible' options to jail needed to cut prisoner numbers
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-59940840
Oceania
Australia - Tasmania's Risdon prison battles COVID outbreak, fears workers and prisoners
News 8-10 January
Americas
Antigua - Prison inmates begin to get booster shots
https://antiguaobserver.com/prison-inmates-begin-to-get-booster-shots/
Canada - 82 prisoners at Burnside jail have COVID-19
https://www.halifaxexaminer.ca/province-house/82-prisoners-at-burnside-jail-have-covid-19/
US - Most Illinois prison staff haven’t gotten Covid-19 boosters
https://www.injusticewatch.org/news/prisons-and-jails/2022/illinois-prison-staff-covid-19-boosters/
US - A Year After NJ Released Thousands Early From Prison, Only 9% Are Back in Custody
https://gothamist.com/news/year-after-nj-released-thousands-early-prison-only-9-are-back-custody
US (Texas) - Tablets for inmates: the tech easing isolation and improving behavior during COVID lockdown
US - Nevada prison system suspends inmate visitations due to COVID surge
US (California) - CDCR: In-Person Inmate Visits Suspended Due To Surge In COVID Cases
https://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2022/01/07/prison-inmates-cdcr-surge/
Asia
Data: Prisons in India continue to be Overcrowded despite COVID-19
https://factly.in/data-prisons-in-india-continue-to-be-overcrowded-despite-covid-19/
India - Amid Covid surge, West Bengal’s jails switch to ‘e-Mulakat’ between prisoners and families
India - About 1,000 Delhi Police personnel, 46 prisoners in Delhi jails test COVID-19 positive
Covid-19 infections on the rise among Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails – Prisoner’s Society
http://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/127582
Nepal - Dilapidated Salyan Prison overcrowded with inmates
Europe
HDP demands action over torture and medical negligence in Turkish prisons
England and Wales - ‘The system has collapsed’ Covid backlog sees number of people on remand in prison at highest level since 2010
https://inews.co.uk/news/covid-court-backlog-remand-prisoners-at-highest-level-since-2010-1368038
England and Wales - ‘Delay and uncertainty is killing people’ as remand inmates account for 40 per cent of suicides in prison
Ireland - Mountjoy Prison hit with riot as lags furious about isolation due to Covid outbreak
https://www.thesun.ie/news/8171599/mountjoy-prison-riot-covid-outbreak/
Irish Prison Service suspends physical visits for two weeks
Isle of Man - Visiting resumes at prison after Covid outbreak
Scotland - More than 100 inmates at Perth Prison isolating after Covid outbreak
https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/perth-kinross/2888433/perth-prison-covid-outbreak-isolating/
News 7 January
Americas
Canada - Prison staff shortage possible amid Quebec COVID-19 outbreaks: Union
US - Omicron Outbreaks in Prisons Put Everyone at Risk, But Data Is Scarce
https://truthout.org/articles/omicron-outbreaks-in-prisons-put-everyone-at-risk-but-data-is-scarce/
US - Louisiana prison visits halted for third time due to COVID-19
https://lailluminator.com/briefs/louisiana-prison-visits-halted-for-third-time-due-to-covid-19/
US - How Vermont prisons are dealing with COVID behind bars
https://www.wcax.com/2022/01/06/how-vermont-prisons-are-dealing-with-covid-behind-bars/
Europe
France - Covid-19 : 47% des détenus ont un schéma vaccinal complet, contre 76,9% de la population générale
Italy - COVID: Over 1,000 jail inmates positive, close to 2020 peak
News 6 January
Africa
Uganda: Prisons Restrict Visits Due to Covid-19
https://allafrica.com/stories/202201050587.html
Americas
US - Opinion: The Public Health Case for Decarcerating America’s Prison System
https://undark.org/2022/01/06/the-public-health-case-for-decarcerating-americas-prison-system/
US - Federal prisons director Carvajal announces retirement amid coronavirus deaths, security lapses
US - Unvaccinated staff spread COVID-19 in California prisons
https://www.workers.org/2022/01/60939/
US - Arkansas prisons crack down on safety measures with rising COVID cases
US - As COVID-19 cases surge, Delaware's prison staff have higher infection rate than prisoners
Asia
India - Covid enters Delhi jails: Authorities in ‘wait and watch’ mode
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Vermin-infested’ London prison blighted by sexist and racist staff, warns watchdog
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/london-wandsworth-prison-watchdog-b975048.html
England and Wales - HMP Aylesbury is Covid 'outbreak site' as more prisoners test positive for coronavirus
Covid in Scotland: Backlogged courts about to face worst disruption yet, says official
News 5 January
Africa
Liberia: Major Prison Facilities Shutdown Due to Lack of Food Supply
https://allafrica.com/stories/202201050259.html
Americas
Calls grow for inmate releases as COVID-19 cases climb in Canada’s jails and prisons
https://globalnews.ca/news/8487449/covid-19-jails-prisons-inmate-release/
Canada - COVID-19 spreads to inmates from staff at Drumheller prison; more than 100 cases total
US - Latest COVID surge hitting Missouri prisons, treatment centers
Asia
Philippines - Over 46K BuCor inmates jabbed vs. Covid-19
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1164551
Philippines - 4,610 PDLs released by BuCor in 2021
https://mb.com.ph/2022/01/05/4610-pdls-released-by-bucor-in-2021/
Europe
France - Covid-19 : 200 Détenus Isolés Après La Découverte D'un Cluster Au Centre Pénitentiaire De Beauvais
Gibraltar - Prison visits suspended as 19 inmates test positive for Covid-19
https://www.chronicle.gi/prison-visits-suspended-as-19-inmates-test-positive-for-covid-19/
Irish prison chiefs splash out over €485,000 on library books to get inmates through Covid-19 pandemic
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/irish-prison-chiefs-splash-out-25852473
Pandemic in Turkey’s prisons | ‘36 people stay in a quarantine ward’
News 21 December 2021 – 4 January 2022
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreaks now reported at 7 federal prisons, more staff than inmates infected
https://globalnews.ca/news/8482951/covid-canada-prison-outbreaks-2021/
Canada - Advocates want Ottawa to release vulnerable inmates as COVID-19 hits N.S. women's prison
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/outbreak-nova-institute-1.6299971
Haiti: 11 killed in foiled prison break
https://www.tbsnews.net/worldbiz/africa/haiti-11-killed-foiled-prison-break-352882
US - Omicron Has Arrived. Many Prisons and Jails Are Not Ready.
US (California) - Inmates’ attorneys warn of potential coronavirus outbreaks sparked by unvaccinated prison staff
US - ‘It's definitely coming to a boiling point’: Families, inmates worry about what comes next in Kansas prisons
US - Delaware Dept. of Correction suspends prison visitation amid COVID surge
US - Arkansas prisons lockdown amid record coronavirus case count
US Virgin Islands - Corrections Counts 13 COVID-Positive Cases At Facilities
Asia
India - Prisoners’ meetings with relatives suspended amid Covid surge in Bihar
India - Over 21,900 doses of Covid vaccine administered to inmates of 3 jails
India - To deal with Covid case spike, Tihar jail gets its own oxygen plant
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/delhi-covid-19-tihar-jail-oxygen-plant-7700410/
Europe
In under-vaccinated Bosnia, inmate population stands out
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/bosnia-europe-sarajevo-balkans-b1983881.html
England and Wales - Prison officer battered senseless and gangs clash in jail violence
England and Wales – The pandemic has been a catastrophe for people in prison. We must learn from it.
England and Wales - Tougher criminal sentences contributing to the courts backlog - new bar chair
Ireland - Covid-19 outbreaks confirmed in four prisons
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/covid-19-outbreaks-confirmed-in-four-prisons-1.4766772
Ireland - Prison Inspector criticises use of solitary confinement to contain Covid-19
Isle of Man - Covid: Jurby prison lockdown eases but visits still suspended
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-59768185
Scotland - Prison suspends in-person and online visits amid 'unforeseen circumstances'
https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/prison-suspends-person-online-visits-22621768
Rights violations in Turkish prisons increased in 2021, says Diyarbakır Bar’s annual report
Despite normalisation, COVID-19 restrictions not lifted in Turkey’s prisons
Oceania
New Zealand - Inmates cause $4.3m worth of damage to prisons in 12 months
New Zealand - Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Auckland women's prison worker tests positive, staff, prisoners in isolation
News 20 December
Americas
US - DOJ says inmates on home confinement can stay out of prison
US - Wisconsin prisons struggle with staffing shortage
https://kstp.com/minnesota-news/wisconsin-prisons-struggle-with-staffing-shortage/6338610/?cat=12196
Europe
Ireland - Prison officers' stress at work worsened during pandemic
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40770978.html
Prison visits in Northern Ireland to be suspended
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/prison-visits-in-northern-ireland-to-be-suspended
Scotland - West Lothian prison Covid outbreak causes chaos as 'several' staff forced to isolate
https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/west-lothian-prison-covid-outbreak-22539718
Oceania
Australia - Visits cancelled at Arthur Gorrie and Brisbane Correctional Centre
https://www.miragenews.com/visits-cancelled-at-arthur-gorrie-and-brisbane-699221/
News 19 December
Americas
US - What Officials Can Do to Keep Omicron From Ravaging One of Our Most Vulnerable Populations
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Manchester inmates locked up for 22 hours a day, report finds
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-59733445
Northern Ireland - NI Prison Service Covid-19 measures revised to keep vital system safe
News 18-20 December
Americas
Canada - Indigenous women make up almost half the female prison population, ombudsman says
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/indigenous-women-half-inmate-population-canada-1.6289674
Canada - Depopulate prisons before Omicron hits, Ottawa criminologist urges
Cayman Islands - Same-day testing rules kick in for hospital, home care and prison visits
Trinidad & Tobago - Police, Prisons & Fire Services associations reject 'vaccination-for-pay' initiative
Only four US states are providing data about inmate vaccinations
https://qz.com/2103312/most-us-states-are-not-sharing-information-on-boosters-in-prisons/
Asia
India - Prison population increased by 14% in last 2 years
India - Omicron: Delhi prisons to isolate inmates with Influenza-like illness
India - Gurugram: New inmates at Bhondsi jail to undergo five tests
Philippines - BuCor: 91% of those in jail received anti-Covid vaccine
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2021/12/20/bucor-91-of-those-in-jail-received-anti-covid-vaccine/
Europe
England and Wales - Male prisoners' free family phone calls are scrapped – but women's aren't under MoJ decision
Backlog in court cases doubles in East of England during pandemic
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-suffolk-59689118
Ireland - Arbour Hill prisoners hit out after being denied showers while being in Covid-19 isolation
In-person visits reduced as tighter Covid restrictions brought in at Jersey's prison
https://www.itv.com/news/channel/2021-12-20/tighter-covid-restrictions-for-inmates-at-jerseys-prison
Malta - Inquiry report calls for major overhaul of prison system
Oceania
Australia - Life on the ward: how do you care for Covid patients in prison?
News 17 December
Africa
Nigeria - Ekiti prison overcrowded, housing 700 inmates instead of 400: Prison Controller
Nigeria - Federal High Court with 75 judges has 128,000 pending cases – Chief Judge
Americas
Ecuador commission to investigate prison violence - president
https://wtvbam.com/2021/12/16/ecuador-commission-to-investigate-prison-violence-president/
US - An influx of sick, elderly inmates in Florida prisons called a 'crisis'
Asia
Rights watchdog calls for decongesting India’s prisons
Israel's Justice Minister Says More Prisons Are the Solution to Overcrowding
Malaysia - Prisons Dept: Families allowed to visit inmates for Christmas from Dec 26 to 31
Thailand - Prison riot “under control” after hundreds of inmates lashed out over Covid-19 treatment
Thailand - Krabi prison dorm ablaze in second riot
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2233771/krabi-prison-dorm-ablaze-in-second-riot
Europe
England and Wales - Wing of Durham prison locked down due to escalating Covid cases
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/durham-prison-locked-down-covid-22484043
'Turkey’s prisons have turned into houses of death'
Oceania
Australia - WA jails are understaffed and under pressure, say WA prison officers
News 16 December
Global COVID Vaccination Rates for People in Prison Remain Far Too Low
https://filtermag.org/covid-vaccination-prisons/
Americas
US (North Carolina) - Prisoners on work release fear bringing in COVID from the outside, then spreading it inside
US - Tennessee prisons see overdoses surge
https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2021/12/16/tennessee-prisons-see-overdoses-surge
US - Alabama prisoner becomes 69th to die with COVID-19
https://www.alreporter.com/2021/12/15/alabama-prisoner-becomes-69th-to-die-with-covid-19/
US Virgin Islands - V.I. prison population cleared of COVID-19
Europe
Denmark to rent 300 prison cells in Kosovo to ease overcrowding
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/15/denmark-rent-300-prison-cells-kosovo-ease-overcrowding
England and Wales - Covid outbreak at sex offenders prison infects 100 inmates
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-59676911
Ireland sees one of highest rates in world for vaccinations in prisons
Inmates in Turkish prisons complain of lack of heating and inadequate amount of food
News 15 December
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak at Bordeaux prison infects 75, prompts new lockdown
Canada - Brockville, Ont. jail closes due to COVID-19 outbreak
https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/brockville-ont-jail-closes-due-to-covid-19-outbreak-1.5707071
US Prison Population Decreased 15% in 2020
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/12/14/us-prison-population-decreased-15-in-2020/
US (Connecticut) - CT’s strict vaccine mandate for medical staff doesn’t apply to prisons
https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/CT-s-strict-vaccine-mandate-for-medical-staff-16700356.php
Asia
Philippines - QC jail congestion rate down to 55% from 1,000%- BJMP
https://mb.com.ph/2021/12/15/qc-jail-congestion-rate-down-to-55-from-1000-bjmp/
Europe
England and Wales - Visits resume at Winchester prison following Covid outbreak
Italy - Two guards hurt in prison riot
Oceania
Australia - Guards walk off Mount Gambier correctional site over prisoner-made food, pay and conditions
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-12-15/prison-guards-walk-out-over-food-and-conditions/100701108
News 14 December
Americas
US (New York) - “People Need To Go Outside": Rikers Detainees Say Loss Of Rec Time Is Intensifying Jails Crisis
Asia
Pakistan - ‘Mysterious rise’ in inmates’ deaths witnessed in Lahore prison
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2333707/mysterious-rise-in-inmates-deaths-witnessed-in-lahore-prison
Philippines - Bureau of Corrections realizes jail decongestion program
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2021/12/14/bureau-of-corrections-realizes-jail-decongestion-program/
South Korea: 70000 inmates, officers at correction centres to get tested for Covid
Europe
England and Wales - Milton Keynes prison comes under fire again from inspectors
Scotland - Fife: Community payback hit by pandemic
https://www.dunfermlinepress.com/news/19781802.fife-community-payback-hit-pandemic/
Oceania
New Zealand - High time: Sharp increase in prison drug seizures
News 4-13 December
Africa
Dozens killed in fire at overcrowded Burundi prison
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/07/burundi-prison-gitega-fire-overcrowded
Zimbabwe - 2 000 Prisoners Test Positive For Covid-19
https://www.zimeye.net/2021/12/06/2-000-prisoners-test-positive-for-covid-19/
Americas
Prevalence of COVID-19 infection in the prison system in Espirito Santo/Brazil: persons deprived of liberty and justice workers
Canada - More than 120 off work at GTA jail after health unit bars unvaccinated staff
Canada - Court hears about pandemic conditions at Burnside jail as judge debates inmate's sentence
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/inmate-assault-trial-burnside-jail-covid-19-1.6276480
US - For incarcerated Americans, the pandemic chaos of April 2020 has never ended
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/12/prisons-covid-lockdown-hardships-us
US - Multiple COVID outbreaks reported at Maine correctional facilities
https://spectrumlocalnews.com/me/maine/news/2021/12/09/covid-hits-corrections-facilities
Asia
Bangladesh - Prisoners to be vaccinated
https://www.tbsnews.net/coronavirus-chronicle/covid-19-bangladesh/prisoners-be-vaccinated-339709
A glance at the conditions of women in Iranian prisons – women’s rights are human rights
https://women.ncr-iran.org/2021/12/09/the-conditions-of-women-iran-prisons/
Pakistan - Undue delays : K-P struggles with vaccine hesitancy in jails
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2333627/undue-delays-k-p-struggles-with-vaccine-hesitancy-in-jails
Philippines - 39,155 PDLs in BuCor jails vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2021/12/05/39155-pdls-in-bucor-jails-vaccinated/
Europe
COVID: How Europe's prisons have fared in the pandemic
https://www.dw.com/en/covid-how-europes-prisons-have-fared-in-the-pandemic/a-60006262
England and Wales - The double lockdown: How it feels to leave prison during a pandemic
https://metro.co.uk/2021/12/05/in-focus-how-it-feels-to-leave-prison-during-a-pandemic-15658488/
England and Wales - ‘Anger, fear and resentment’: prisoners speak out about lockdown
https://www.thejusticegap.com/anger-fear-and-resentment-prisoners-speak-out-about-lockdown/
England and Wales - Bullingdon Prison report criticises chronic overcrowding and safety standards
England and Wales - Prison service 'closely monitoring situation' at Leyland's HMP Wymott after Covid outbreak
England and Wales - HMP Winchester: What restrictions mean for inmates as Covid cases rise
https://www.hampshirelive.news/news/hampshire-news/hmp-winchester-what-restrictions-mean-6324378
Ireland - Covid outbreak at Cloverhill Prison leads to restrictions
https://www.echo.ie/covid-outbreak-at-cloverhill-prison-leads-to-restrictions/
Isle of Man - Covid: Virus outbreak prompts Jurby prison lockdown
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-59599105
Malta - Two inmates test positive for Covid
https://newsbook.com.mt/en/two-inmates-test-positive-for-covid/
Covid in Scotland: Courts backlog could take five years to be cleared up
Oceania
Australia - Casuarina Prison inmates riot amid union warning of shortages of up to 800 officers
Australia - NSW prisons are failing, new report claims
https://7news.com.au/news/crime/nsw-prisons-are-failing-new-report-claims-c-4895008
New Zealand - Turning Hawke's Bay prison youth unit into Covid-19 ward 'dreadful mistake'
News 3 December
Americas
Canada - Omicron variant of COVID-19 confirmed in Halton and Durham regions cases
Trinidad & Tobago - CCHR calls for independent monitoring of prisons
https://tt.loopnews.com/content/cchr-calls-independent-monitoring-prisons
US (Connecticut) - State Suspends In-Person Visits To Prison Due To High COVID Rates
US - Wyoming Prisons See 5th COVID-19 Death and a New Outbreak
https://k2radio.com/wyoming-prisons-see-5th-covid-19-death-and-a-new-outbreak/
Europe
France - COVID-19: Un Cluster Déclaré Dans Une Prison, Les Surveillants Pas Assez Protégés Selon Un Syndicat
News 2 December
Americas
Canada - National advocacy group joins inmate's lawsuit alleging substandard medical care in prisons
US - High number of deaths in Oregon state prisons
https://www.streetroots.org/news/2021/12/01/prisons-deaths
Asia
Philippines - 30,000 doses of COVID vaccines allotted to PDLs in BuCor jails
https://mb.com.ph/2021/12/02/30000-doses-of-covid-vaccines-allotted-to-pdls-in-bucor-jails/
Singapore - S'pore Prison Service launched new vehicle for infectious inmates 3 weeks before Covid-19 hit
Europe
England and Wales - What it's like to be a mother in prison during a pandemic
https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/what-its-like-mother-prison-6255193
Ireland - Prison visits by children to see parents plummets
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40756920.html
Luxembourg – Schrassig prison: Sanitary measures reinforced as 45 infections reported
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1826645.html
Malta - Prisons are overcrowded, lacking rehabilitation efforts, audit finds
News 1 December
Americas
US - About 200 Massachusetts prison guards, Department of Correction employees suspended over vaccine mandate
US - NY jail and prison staff not complying with COVID mandates face suspension
US (Delaware) Del. DOC expands inmate visitation to children
https://www.wmdt.com/2021/11/del-doc-expands-inmate-visitation-to-children/
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Bullingdon report criticises overcrowding due to Covid
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-59478980
England and Wales – Thousands in prison on remand face second Xmas behind bars as court chaos deepens
France - Cluster à la prison d’Argentan : 72 cas positifs au Covid-19
Luxembourg - Covid-19 : les contaminations se multiplient à Schrassig
https://lequotidien.lu/police-justice/covid-19-les-contaminations-se-multiplient-a-schrassig/
News 30 November
Africa
Concerns over Covid-19 spread at notorious Egyptian prison
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/concerns-over-covid-19-spread-notorious-egyptian-prison
Americas
Ecuador's president extends state of emergency for prisons
US - Unnecessary and Complicated Transfers Are Spreading COVID in Federal Prisons
US - California now limits medical parole to those on ventilators
Asia
Philippines - 77% of 48,539 PDLs in BuCor jails vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2021/11/30/77-of-48539-pdls-in-bucor-jails-vaccinated/
Thailand - Joint letter on restrictions on prison visits and correspondence
Europe
Scottish prisons: Independent review calls for radical reform following deaths
Oceania
Australia - Canberra's COVID rapid antigen screening pilot introduced at jail, the Alexander Maconochie Centre
News 27 – 29 November
Americas
US - Prison visits in Alabama to restart after almost two-year pause
US - Appeals court blocks order requiring COVID vaccines for California prisons
Asia
Kazakh ‘torture’ jail using virtual reality to help prisoners feel joy
Malaysia - 63% of inmates minor drug offenders, says Azalina, in calling for prison reform
Philippines - Gov’t assures COVID vaccination of BuCor’s PDLs
https://mb.com.ph/2021/11/28/govt-assures-covid-vaccination-of-bucors-pdls/
Europe
Albania Closes Prison Hospital Criticized by Human Rights Organizations
England and Wales - Gym restrictions and 'goodybags' for HMP Liverpool inmates at height of covid
Turkey to lift ban on contact visitation in prisons
https://stockholmcf.org/turkey-to-lift-ban-on-contact-visitation-in-prisons/
News 26 November
Africa
Kenya - 43 inmates at Bungoma prison test positive for Covid-19
Americas
Cayman Islands - Lawyer: HMP Northward a ‘scary place right now’
https://caymannewsservice.com/2021/11/lawyer-hmp-northward-a-scary-place-right-now/
US - Inmate claims Utah prisons mismanaged pandemic care
https://www.fox13now.com/news/local-news/inmate-claims-utah-prisons-mismanaged-pandemic-care
“Abandoned and deprived”: the women trapped in Venezuela’s overcrowded prisons
https://www.stylist.co.uk/long-reads/women-venezuela-prisons-ana-maria-arevalo-gose/592838
Asia
Cambodia - GDP, ICRC talk sprucing up prison management
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/gdp-icrc-talk-sprucing-prison-management
Philippines - Majority of BJMP, BuCor inmates now vaxxed
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1520013/majority-of-bjmp-bucor-inmates-now-vaxxed
Europe
Belgium - Covid et surpopulation: les prisons sont de nouveau au bord de l'implosion
England and Wales - Winchester Prison Covid outbreak as cases for the area rise
https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/19741849.winchester-prison-covid-outbreak-cases-area-rise/
Ireland - Total of 277 cases of Covid-19 in prisons since pandemic began, Dáil told
Scotland - West Lothian prisoners slashed guard and sparked riot in violent Covid protest
https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/west-lothian-prisoners-slashed-guard-22275323
News 25 November
Prisons Are Communities Too
https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/prisons-are-communities-too
Asia
India - No psychiatrist visited Ranchi's Birsa central jail since 2020 lockdown
Philippines - Prelate says inmates should not be left behind amid Covid-19 vaccination
Europe
France - Orne. Nouveau foyer de contamination à la prison d’Argentan : 48 détenus testés positifs au Covid
Malta - Prison reform in coming weeks, Home Affairs Minister pledges
Experts of Committee Against Torture Ask Serbia about Overcrowding in Prisons
https://www.miragenews.com/experts-of-committee-against-torture-ask-serbia-680487/
Contact visits to resume in Turkey’s prisons after months
Oceania
Australia (Tasmania) - Prison overcrowding is seeing inmates share cells, toilets and showers, and that's not meant to be normal
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-25/tasmanian-prisons-overcrowding-report/100647178
News 24 November
Africa
Prison congestion: CSOs solicit stakeholders’ support to release detained Nigerians
Americas
US - About 90% of Federal Workers Got Vaccinated by Deadline
https://www.webmd.com/vaccines/covid-19-vaccine/news/20211123/federal-workers-vaccinated-deadline
US (New Mexico) - COVID still spreading in NM prisons despite nearly everyone getting the jab
https://news.yahoo.com/covid-still-spreading-nm-prisons-195027425.html
US - NYC Jail Officers At 67% COVID Vaccination Rate As Mandate Looms
https://patch.com/new-york/new-york-city/nyc-jail-officers-67-covid-vaccination-rate-mandate-looms
Europe
England and Wales - Essex prison described as rat-infested and piled with rubbish
https://planetradio.co.uk/free/uk/news/essex-prison-rubbish-hmp-chelmsford/
Surge in drug seizures at Scottish prisons
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-59350968
Turkey - Heating system doesn’t work in İstanbul’s Silivri Prison despite freezing temperatures
Oceania
New Zealand - 'Retraumatised': Calls for prison double bunking to be axed as new data shows level of sex assault
News 23 November
Americas
Ecuador pardons some inmates to cut prison overcrowding after riots
US - Federal judge rejects California’s bid to postpone vaccination of prison staff
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Federal-judge-rejects-California-s-bid-to-16642593.php
Asia
Philippines - DOJ wants to include PDLs in 3-day national vaccination campaign
Europe
Belgium - Prison de St-Gilles: le bourgmestre prend un arrêté pour limiter la population carcérale
Ireland - Covid-19 in big Laois prison under control but community surge raises risk of more outbreaks
Luxembourg - Sanitary measures at Schrassig prison extended by two weeks
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1821647.html
Oceania
Australia - Queensland Parole Board applications backlog forcing prisoners to wait up to a year for decision
https://home.nzcity.co.nz/news/article.aspx?id=344020&cat=980&fm=newsmain%2Cnarts
News 20 – 22 November
Africa
Ghana - We’ll implement non-custodial sentences to decongest prisons – Bawumia
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1119965/well-implement-non-custodial-sentences-to-deconge.html
Americas
Canada - Thirty-Four Inmates and Three Staff Test Positive for COVID-19 in New Brunswick Prison
Cayman Islands - Relatives visiting prison must get tested or be fined $10,000
https://cayman.loopnews.com/content/relatives-visiting-prison-must-get-tested-or-be-fined-10000
US - COVID-19 outbreak at Vermont prison spreading
https://www.boston.com/news/coronavirus/2021/11/21/covid-19-outbreak-vermont-prisons/
US - More than 100 Massachusetts prison guards suspended after refusing COVID vaccine over the past month
US - North Carolina’s aging death row population faces looming health care crisis
https://theintercept.com/2021/11/20/north-carolina-death-row-health-care-crisis/
Asia
India - Delhi: With Covid-19 curbs eased, over 74,000 turn up to meet inmates in 10 months
Malaysia - Binding over better than jailing petty criminals, says lawyer
Philippines -DOJ chief seeks inclusion of 30,000 more inmates in three-day inoculation drive
Singapore - 66 inmates with Covid-19 housed in Selarang Park Complex quarantine centre
Europe
Ireland - Covid outbreaks continue to worsen in prison system
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/covid-outbreaks-continue-to-worsen-in-pri
Ireland - Inmate at prison hit by Covid-19 outbreak has trial delayed
Scotland - Overcrowded, under-funded: MSPs seek major justice system reform
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Waikeria Prison quarantine lifted after negative test result
News 19 November
Americas
Ecuador - ‘We are all suffering’: What’s going on inside Ecuador’s prisons?
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/11/18/we-are-all-suffering-whats-going-on-inside-ecuador-prisons
US - 76% of Nevada prison workers vaccinated against COVID-19 as mandate goes into effect
US (Massachusetts) - Prison depopulation request over COVID denied
https://masslawyersweekly.com/2021/11/18/prison-depopulation-request-over-covid-denied/
US (California) - Judge Rules CDCR Inflicted Cruel and Unusual Punishment on San Quentin Inmates During Massive COVID Outbreak
Europe
Greece - Thessaloniki prison on lockdown after Covid outbreak
https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1172137/thessaloniki-prison-on-lockdown-after-covid-outbreak/
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid 19 Delta outbreak: More than 50 Waikeria Prison staff isolating after Covid link
New Zealand - Covid-19: Vaccinated prisoners to have no choice if bunked with unvaxxed inmates
News 18 November
Africa
In Togo, prison visit ban keeps families apart
https://news.yahoo.com/togo-prison-visit-ban-keeps-092553254.html
Americas
US Virgin Islands - Second Outbreak: 14 Detainees Test Positive for COVID-19 at St. Croix Jail
Asia
In Myanmar’s Insein Prison, inmates shared bath water and were denied medical care
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/insein-11172021204102.html
Europe
England and Wales - Foston prison hit by outbreak of covid cases
https://www.staffordshire-live.co.uk/news/local-news/foston-prison-hit-outbreak-covid-6221595
Ireland - Prison service facing 'unprecedented challenge' as it manages three Covid-19 outbreaks
https://www.thejournal.ie/prisons-covid-5604913-Nov2021/
Ireland - Prison governor says prison service has entered 'silo mentality' amidst serious outbreaks of Covid-19
Luxembourg - 18 inmates test positive for Covid-19
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1819096.html
News 17 November
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons commissioner: No covid, chickenpox outbreaks in prison
https://newsday.co.tt/2021/11/16/prisons-commissioner-no-covid-chickenpox-outbreaks-in-prison/
US - COVID-19 cases rise at Mass. jails, prisons
https://www.boston.com/news/coronavirus/2021/11/16/covid-19-cases-rise-at-mass-jails-prisons/
US (Minnesota) - COVID-19 cases in St. Cloud correctional facility account for vast majority of systemwide cases
Europe
England and Wales - Covid cases confirmed at HMP Brinsford
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/black-country/covid-cases-confirmed-hmp-brinsford-22182136
Ireland - Covid in jails: Judge asks Prison Service rep to come to court after prisoner cannot attend trial amid ongoing outbreaks
News 11-16 November
Reimagine justice and end child detentions: UNICEF
https://news.un.org/en/story/2021/11/1105812
Africa
South Africa - Eastern Cape prison hunger strike over, says inspection authority
Americas
At least 68 dead in latest prison violence in Ecuador
https://www.ft.com/content/0375e422-68fa-4109-9f17-57846fdb28a6
US - State Prisons Released More People Before Covid-19 Than During It
https://newrepublic.com/article/164342/early-release-prison-covid
US - S.F.'s jails are leading California in COVID prevention. How are they doing it? No one knows
Asia
'Emotional Torture': Why Don't Indian Jails Give Inmates a Right to Phone Calls?
https://www.thequint.com/news/law/emotional-torture-indian-jails-inmates-no-right-to-phone-calls
Malaysia - Prisons Dept: ‘Drug cluster’ rehab programme under 12MP aims to reduce overcrowding
Philippines - BuCor: 4K inmates fully vaccinated; 13K partially vaxxed vs COVID-19
169 inmates are Covid-19 positive, including prisoners on death row: Singapore Prison Service
Europe
Croatia - Protests against COVID Certificates Outside Zagreb Prison, Split Court
England and Wales - ‘Unacceptable’: Violent assaults on children surge 70% at youth prison
England and Wales - Surge in self-harm incidents at scandal-hit women’s prison where newborn baby died
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/self-harm-prison-hmp-bronzefield-b1957994.html
Ireland - 30 Covid cases confirmed in country’s biggest jail as mass testing of staff and prisoners under way
Ireland - Covid outbreaks in prisons bring disruption to courts
https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2021/1115/1260115-coronavirus-courts/
Record Number Of Deaths At Isle Of Wight's Prison
https://www.iwradio.co.uk/news/isle-of-wight-news/record-number-of-deaths-at-isle-of-wights-prison/
Pandemic fallout: Convicts not eager to return to prison in Turkey
Turkey - Ban on contact visitation violates rights of inmates: Ankara Bar Association
https://stockholmcf.org/ban-on-contact-visitation-violates-rights-of-inmates-ankara-bar-association/
Oceania
Australia - ACT Supreme Court reduces sentences, cites COVID-19 prison woes
10 November
More than a million prisoners have been released during COVID-19, but it’s not enough
Africa
South Africa’s ‘Faulty’ Life Sentences are Catching Up – Prisons Crowded and Costing Citizens
South Africa - Irregular expenditure, violence and escapes increasing at SA prisons
South Africa - Vaccine hesitancy plaguing SA prison officials and inmates
https://www.citizen.co.za/news/south-africa/2906275/prison-officials-and-inmates-fear-side-effects/
Americas
Canada - Proof of vaccination to be mandatory for prison guards and visitors — but not for inmates
US - Philadelphia prisons to resume limited in-person visits
https://whyy.org/articles/philadelphia-prisons-to-resume-limited-in-person-visits/
Asia
Singapore - Several inmates and staff of Institution A1 at Changi Prison Complex test positive for Covid-19
Europe
England and Wales - Stocken Prison in Rutland is undergoing a gradual return to normality following strict covid regulations
https://www.stamfordmercury.co.uk/news/prison-report-highlights-impact-of-covid-9224818/
Ireland - Midlands Prison sees Covid-19 outbreak as 14 prisoners test positive
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/midlands-prison-sees-covid-19-25420296
News 9 November
Americas
US (Maine) - Justice delayed: York County Jail turns away would-be inmates amid COVID pressures
Asia
India - Tihar Jail Has 20k Inmates against 10k Capacity in 'Inhuman' Conditions; Parliament Committee in 'Shock'
Europe
Belgium - 24-hour strike in prisons in Brussels and Wallonia
https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/192894/24-hour-strike-in-prisons-in-brussels-and-wallonia/
England and Wales - Government accused of ‘secretly’ rolling out pepper spray in prisons during pandemic
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/pava-pepper-spray-prisons-covid-b1953523.html
England and Wales - Justice Secretary Dominic Raab doesn't know how long it will take to reduce COVID court case backlog
England and Wales - 'Super courtroom' opens to address 'significant' backlog of over 60,000 crown court cases
Ireland - Prison Services reveal Covid-19 vaccine rates in Portlaoise and other jails
Luxembourg - Prison tightens pandemic restrictions, 100 in quarantine
https://delano.lu/article/prison-tightens-pandemic-restr
Scotland - Shocking condition of Greenock Prison highlighted in national report
Spain - Anti-torture Committee publishes 2020 visit report on police and prisons in Spain
News 6-8 November
Americas
Canada - 18 cases associated with COVID-19 outbreak at Saanich jail, Island Health says
Asia
Thailand - 625 inmates infected with Covid-19 at two Korat prisons
Europe
Netherlands - 700 prisoners in isolation after coronavirus outbreak in Zaanstad penitentiary
https://nltimes.nl/2021/11/07/700-prisoners-isolation-coronavirus-outbreak-zaanstad-penitentiary
Scotland - Dumfries Prison staff praised for handling of two coronavirus outbreaks
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/dumfries-prison-staff-praised-handling-25379587
Scotland - Scotland’s courts to continue virtual hearings into 2022
https://www.thenational.scot/news/19700939.scotlands-courts-continue-virtual-hearings-2022/
Oceania
Australia - Prison numbers have fallen during the COVID pandemic, but not for First Nations people
New Zealand - Prison staff miss Covid deadline
https://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/280582-live-updates-prison-staff-miss-covid-deadline.html
News 5 November
Americas
Cayman Islands - Full prison struggles with high COVID case load
https://caymannewsservice.com/2021/11/full-prison-struggles-with-high-covid-case-load/
US (California) - Newsom joins corrections department in appealing prison vaccine mandate
US (Minnesota) - State adjusts COVID-19 protocols for prison employees
https://www.keyc.com/2021/11/04/state-adjusts-covid-19-protocols-prison-employees/
US (Nevada) - Hundreds of prison staff submitted religious exemptions ahead of vaccination deadline
Asia
Maldives - Male' Prison over capacity by 33 percent
Europe
Belgium - Surpopulation, manque de personnel et recrudescence du covid : profond malaise à la prison de Saint-Gilles
Three of Scotland’s most violent prisoners killed by covid
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/three-scotlands-most-violent-prisoners-25381612
Oceania
Australia - NSW prisons COVID-19 outbreak infected hundreds
https://canberraweekly.com.au/nsw-prisons-covid-19-outbreak-infected-hundreds/
News 4 November
Americas
Canada - Island Health declares COVID-19 outbreak at Saanich jail
US (New Mexico) - Prison population continues statewide decline
https://www.lascrucesbulletin.com/stories/prison-population-continues-statewide-decline,8742
US (California) - Amid COVID-19 outbreak in Sacramento jails, advocates demand better care, emergency releases
Europe
Covid Scotland: Courts backlog will take 'multiple years' to clear warns Lord Advocate
Oceania
Australia - NSW prison population down during COVID-19
https://www.mandurahmail.com.au/story/7496793/nsw-prison-population-down-during-covid-19/
New Zealand - Visitors To Prisons Required To Be Fully Vaccinated Against COVID-19 Before 9 December
News 3 November
Americas
US - COVID-19 inmate cases soar at North Dakota state prison
https://kfgo.com/2021/11/02/covid-19-inmate-cases-soar-at-north-dakota-state-prison/
US - Few Minnesota Counties Require COVID Vaccines for Prison Workers
https://www.bollyinside.com/news/few-minnesota-counties-require-covid-vaccines-for-prison-workers
US - Nebraska Corrections director says prisons are understaffed, overpopulated
Asia
India - Covid 19 Not A Valid Ground For Seeking Further Extension Of Parole Leave: Karnataka HC
India - Delhi: A year on, Diwali is back for Tihar inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Record number of deaths at HMP The Verne
https://planetradio.co.uk/greatest-hits/dorset/news/record-number-deaths-hmp-the-verne/
Northern Ireland - Funding plea for jail mental healthcare after 460 self-harm incidents this year
News 2 November
Americas
US - Union for Federal Prison Workers Sues Over Covid Vaccine Mandate
US - Hawaiʻi federal prison workers protest staffing shortages, lack of COVID-19 testing option
Europe
England and Wales - Dour report finds HMP Hull prisoners living in 'intolerable' conditions
https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/dour-report-finds-hmp-hull-6141920
Ireland - Covid certs won't be needed for prison visits for now, but review underway
https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40734387.html
Prison union warns psychoactive drugs have reached 'very dangerous level' as Scots staff battle chaos behind bars
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/prison-union-warns-psychoactive-drugs-25349968
Scotland must reduce prisoner numbers, says watchdog
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-59133556
Oceania
New Zealand - Auckland inmates among positive cases
https://www.looppng.com/coronavirus/auckland-inmates-among-positive-cases-106221
News 30 October – 1 November
Americas
Argentina - After the freedoms anticipated by the Covid, the Buenos Aires prisons were filled again and already exceed the levels of the pre-pandemic
Bahamas - Request For Independent Review Of Prison Issues
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2021/oct/29/request-independent-review-prison-issues/
Canada - Ontario to spend $72 million to tackle courts backlog, hire court staff
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-court-backlog-1.6229951
US prisons face staff shortages as officers quit amid COVID
Asia
Malaysia - Deepavali: Families allowed to meet inmates - Prisons Dept
https://www.thesundaily.my/local/deepavali-families-allowed-to-meet-inmates-prisons-dept-CK8509235
Europe
Albania – Drenovë, Over 10 Prisoners Infected with Covid-19
https://albaniandailynews.com/news/drenov-over-10-prisoners-infected-with-covid-19
France - Béziers. Covid : la prison identifiée comme cluster, plus de 50 cas confirmés
News 29 October
Americas
US - Virginia’s prison population fell by thousands during the pandemic. Will it stay down?
US - Despite outbreaks at Maine prisons and jails, workers aren’t required get vaccinated
Asia
India - After hunger strike, prisoners in Bihar allowed to meet kin, get outside food
Decongesting Philippine Prisons
https://www.panaynews.net/decongesting-philippine-prisons/
Europe
Improving health in prisons: new WHO Prison Health Framework can improve data quality
England and Wales - Self-harm among women and children in UK prisons rises to record levels
England and Wales - Violent and rotting Winchester prison fails inmates, report says
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-59087024
Oceania
Australia - Report criticises rising prison population
https://www.northerndailyleader.com.au/story/7489162/report-criticises-rising-prison-population/
News 28 October
Africa
‘Stuck in limbo’: endless wait for justice for those in Nigeria’s prisons
Americas
St Lucia - Visits suspended at Bordelais due to COVID outbreak
https://stlucia.loopnews.com/content/visits-suspended-bordelais-due-covid-outbreak
US - Some states are cloaking prison COVID data
https://gcn.com/articles/2021/10/27/prison-covid-data-transparency.aspx?m=1
US - DOJ Will Revise Trump-Era Home Release Limit, Garland Says
US (California) - Inmates must be vaccinated to see visitors in state prison, CDCR says
US (Arizona) - Prison officials: More than 80% of state inmates vaccinated
https://www.kold.com/2021/10/27/prison-officials-more-than-80-state-inmates-vaccinated/
US - Lawsuits and protests: Texas county jails are on the brink during the pandemic
Asia
Cambodia - Courts urged to expedite clearing backlog to reduce prison overcrowding
In China, COVID-19 Had an Unlikely Side Effect: Bail Reform
https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1008812/in-china%2C-covid-19-had-an-unlikely-side-effect-bail-reform
Europe
Cyprus - Court cases postponed due to Covid-19
https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/court-cases-postponed-due-to-covid-19/
Turkey - ‘Pandemic restrictions’ still in place in prisons
https://m.bianet.org/english/human-rights/252474-pandemic-restrictions-still-in-place-in-prisons
News 27 October
Africa
Uganda - 18 percent prison inmates vaccinated against Covid-19
https://www.independent.co.ug/18-percent-prison-inmates-vaccinated-against-covid-19/
Americas
US - Missouri prisons urged to improve COVID protocols
US (Washington DC) - After year of isolation, Prison Scholars return to classrooms
https://georgetownvoice.com/2021/10/26/prison-scholars-return-to-class/
US - Some unvaccinated California correctional officers could face discipline under new order
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article255300371.html
Asia
Malaysia - Prisons Dept allows visitations in states under Phase 4 NRP
Malaysia -Zero Covid-19 cases in Penang Remand Prison since September
Europe
England and Wales - Deal reached to end long running Covid safety dispute at 49 prisons
News 26 October
Americas
US - COVID-19 rates higher in Missouri counties with large prison populations, study says
Asia
India - Prisoners ordered to return to 'Covid-free' jails in Delhi
Thailand - Nakhon Si Thammarat widens lockdowns as prison infections rise
Europe
Armenian Prison Healthcare Staff Trained on Prevention and Control of Health Care-Associated Infections
News 23 – 25 October
Africa
Rwanda - Human Right Commission Reports An Issue Of Prisons Congestion Again
https://www.ktpress.rw/2021/10/human-right-commission-reports-an-issue-of-prisons-congestion-again/
Uganda - Prisons cries out for Covid-19 vaccines
https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/prisons-cries-out-for-covid-19-vaccines-3592386
Americas
Jamaica - 74 COVID-positive cases among inmates at ‘Spanish Town prison’
https://jamaica.loopnews.com/content/74-covid-positive-cases-among-inmates-spanish-town-prison
St Lucia - Another COVID outbreak at Bordelais: 27 new cases at prison
https://stlucia.loopnews.com/content/another-covid-outbreak-bordelais-27-new-cases-prison
US - When Prison Guards Refuse Vaccines, Incarcerated People Pay the Price
https://truthout.org/articles/when-prison-guards-refuse-vaccines-incarcerated-people-pay-the-price/
US (Connecticut) - Prison workers top list of those not complying with mandate
US (North Carolina) - COVID outbreaks continue in NC jails, which are exempt from state vaccine mandate
US - Nevada inmates’ health conditions amid pandemic spur call for independent probe
https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/oct/24/nevada-inmates-health-conditions-pandemic-probe/
Asia
India - Over 17,000 Covid vaccine doses given to Delhi prison inmates
Philippines - BJMP records low COVID jail cases, high PDL vax numbers in past 6 months
Philippines - BuCor vows to have all PDLs, workers vaccinated vs COVID
https://mb.com.ph/2021/10/25/bucor-vows-to-have-all-pdls-workers-vaccinated-vs-covid/
Philippines - General Santos detainees crammed in cells while awaiting COVID-19 tests
Thailand - Covid-19 in prison: outbreaks from overcrowding now subsiding
https://thethaiger.com/coronavirus/covid-19-in-prison-outbreaks-from-overcrowding-now-subsiding
Europe
Prison overcrowding report discussed with key stakeholders in Greece
Scotland - Covid: 200 inmates isolating at Perth Prison after 30 test positive
https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/perth-kinross/2680602/covid-200-inmates-isolating-perth-prison/
Two wings in Spanish prison go into lockdown due to major COVID-19 outbreak
Oceania
Australia - COVID-19 inquiry ordered into Sydney jail
https://www.northernbeachesreview.com.au/story/7481318/covid-19-inquiry-ordered-into-sydney-jail/
New Zealand - Covid-19: Corrections accused of subterfuge over staff vaccine mandate
News 22 October
Americas
US - Health care in Illinois prisons is deficient: Report
US (Washington) - Citing COVID-19 concerns, Gov. Inslee halts jail-to-prison transfers
https://www.ncwlife.com/citing-covid-19-concerns-gov-inslee-halts-jail-to-prison-transfers/
US (New York) - As COVID Rages On Rikers, Staffing Crisis Delays Vaccine Mandate For Jail Staff
https://gothamist.com/news/covid-rages-rikers-staffing-crisis-delays-vaccine-mandate-jail-staff
US - Visitations at Mississippi prisons to resume November 1
https://www.wlbt.com/2021/10/21/visitations-mississippi-prisons-resume-november-1/
Europe
France - Béziers : encore plus de malades du Covid à la prison du Gasquinoy
Prison Revolts in Russia Growing in Number, Size and Impact
https://jamestown.org/program/prison-revolts-in-russia-growing-in-number-size-and-impact/
News 21 October
Africa
Nigeria - COVID-19: Grant clemency to prison inmates now, lawyer begs Okowa
https://www.sunnewsonline.com/covid-19-grant-clemency-to-prison-inmates-now-lawyer-begs-okowa/
Americas
Canada - Group says prolonged use of lockdowns, restrictive movement routines in prisons unconstitutional
Canada - More than 1,000 inmates locked in their cells amid staffing shortage at Montreal's Bordeaux prison
US (California) - Appeals court tosses order aimed at protecting immigration detainees from COVID-19
US (New York) - State prisons to offer food incentives for inmates who get vaccinated; CO union pushes back
https://news.yahoo.com/state-prisons-offer-food-incentives-120300043.html
Asia
Cambodia - Covid vaccinations for detainees near 100%
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/covid-vaccinations-detainees-near-100
Europe
Cyprus - MPs ponder electronic bracelets to alleviate prison overcrowding
https://cyprus-mail.com/2021/10/20/mps-ponder-electronic-bracelets-to-alleviate-prison-overcrowding/
Scotland - Fife terror trial halted after another Covid outbreak at Perth Prison
Oceania
Australia (ACT) - Government resists compulsory jabs for prison officers
https://citynews.com.au/2021/government-resists-compulsory-jabs-for-prison-officers/
News 20 October
Americas
US - The policy lessons learned from the criminal justice system response to COVID-19
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1745-9133.12562
US - Democrats in Congress press Biden to extend COVID-related prisoner releases
Asia
Kuwait to pardon more prisoners next year amid overcrowding
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/kuwait-pardon-more-prisoners-next-year-amid-overcrowding
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners three times as likely to miss hospital appointments with no notice than general public, says report
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Corrections National Commissioner welcomes staff vaccine mandate
News 19 October
Americas
Canada - Sudbury Jail closing temporarily due to COVID-19 outbreak
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/sudbury-jail-covid-outbreak-1.6215096
US - How States Shunted Prisoners Aside in Vaccine Rollout
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/10/18/how-states-shunted-prisoners-aside-in-vaccine-rollout/
US - Covid-19 Cases Increase Seven-Fold in Wyoming Prison System
Asia
India - Jail inmates can now talk to relatives over phone
https://www.orissapost.com/jail-inmates-can-now-talk-to-relatives-over-phone/
India - 20 jail inmates test Covid positive in Thane
Philippines - 31.34% of 123,848 inmates in BJMP facilities with complete doses vs COVID-19
News 16 – 18 October
Africa
Kenya - Kapsabet GK Prison Records 100pc Vaccination
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/kapsabet-gk-prison-records-100pc-vaccination/
COVID-19: 92% of Morocco’s Prison Population are Fully Vaccinated
Americas
US - In face of violent crime and COVID trauma, nation can't fall into overincarceration trap
US - Inmates are more vaccinated against COVID-19 than guards at nearly every prison in California
US - Louisiana Will Restart Prison Visits With Covid Precautions
US (Washington) - I'm in prison and I just had my first contact visit in 500 days. To reduce recidivism, prisons need to prioritize human contact.
https://news.yahoo.com/im-prison-just-had-first-120200384.html
US (Florida) - Anxiety runs high among some incarcerated people as regular Covid testing in short supply
US (Tennessee) - COVID rates at CoreCivic prisons soar above rates at state-run facilities
Asia
Only 10% of Philippine convicts have received COVID-19 vaccines
Philippines - Davao Prison sets up isolation facility for COVID, other infectious diseases
Oceania
Australia - Rapid testing, jabs and jury bubbles: How NSW courts are reopening safely
News 15 October
Africa
Kenya - Gov’t Lauds Uptake Of Covid-19 Jabs In Prisons
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/ministry-commends-uptake-of-covid-19-jabs-in-prisons/
Americas
US - How COVID-19 affected death row prisoners ahead of Alabama execution scheduled this month
US - Nearly 40 percent of Mass. prison guards still haven’t complied with the state’s vaccine mandate
https://www.boston.com/news/coronavirus/2021/10/14/massachusetts-prison-guard-vaccine-mandate/
Europe
England and Wales - Justice Secretary Dominic Raab can't say when court backlog will be cleared
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-58910799
England and Wales - Black mental health crisis in prisons
https://www.voice-online.co.uk/news/2021/10/14/black-mental-health-crisis-in-prisons/
Turkey - İzmir F-type prison imposing extra restrictions on inmates despite new regulation
Oceania
New Zealand - The spectre of Covid-19 in prisons, and what it means for Māori
https://thespinoff.co.nz/atea/15-10-2021/why-covid-19-in-prisons-matters-for-maori/
News 14 October
Americas
US - Incarcerated Describe COVID Prison Practices as Torture
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/10/13/incarcerated-describe-covid-prison-practices-as-torture/
US - I’ve Spent 35 Years in Prison. I Live Each Day Fearing Another Wave of COVID.
US - Why are incarcerated people, the only Americans with guaranteed health care, dying of COVID-19 faster than the general public? | Opinion
US - California judge blocks COVID-19 vaccine order for correctional officers
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article254990142.html
US - As the deadline nears, Oregon Department of Corrections employees are 50% vaccinated
Europe
England and Wales - STC Still Locking Children In Cells For 23 Hours A Day, Warn Inspectors
News 13 October
Africa
Kenya - Gov’t Intensifies Covid-19 Vaccination In Prisons
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/govt-intensifies-covid-19-vaccination-in-prisons/
Kenya - Inmates To Wait Longer To Receive Visitors
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/inmates-to-wait-longer-to-receive-visitors/
Americas
US - Despite being told otherwise, thousands of convicts sent home for COVID-19 will have to return to prison
US - Texas Prison Staff COVID-19 Death Toll Spikes
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/10/12/texas-prison-staff-covid-19-death-toll-spikes/
US - Supreme Court: No More Expedited Releases For Hawaii Inmates
https://www.civilbeat.org/2021/10/supreme-court-no-more-expedited-releases-for-hawaii-inmates/
Europe
Scotland - Covid: Around 40 prisoners self-isolating at Perth Prison as a ‘precautionary measure’
Oceania
Australia - Lockdown in Hunter Valley maximum security prison after virus outbreak
News 12 October
Americas
Canada - Most Alberta offenders sentenced to weekends in jail, now serving at home due to pandemic
Europe
England and Wales - Children locked in rooms at youth prison up to 23 hours a day – report
England and Wales - Self harm at Peterborough prison drops during lockdown - despite ‘inhumane’ conditions jail forced to impose
England and Wales - Inside 'shabby' HMP Deerbolt - where prisoners wear bin bags instead of coats
https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/inside-shabby-hmp-deerbolt-prisoners-21823780
Oceania
New Zealand - People In Prison Must Be Protected From COVID-19
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2110/S00093/people-in-prison-must-be-protected-from-covid-19.htm
News 9-11 October
Americas
Bermuda - Courts reduce services because of Covid-19
Guyana - COVID-19: About half of prison population vaccinated
https://newsroom.gy/2021/10/08/covid-19-about-half-of-prison-population-vaccinated/
Panama - Outbreak of covid-19 in women's prisons
https://menafn.com/1102946430/Outbreak-of-covid-19-in-womens-prisons&source=30
US - Vaccination rates rise at Washington Department of Corrections, other agencies in response to COVID-19 mandate
Asia
Cambodia - CHRC says NGOs call to release prisoners will affect public order
Europe
Croatia - 23 Prisoners at Zagreb's Remetinec Prison Infected, 110 Self-Isolating
Only valid Covid-19 certificates for prison guards in Latvia
https://bnn-news.com/only-valid-covid-19-certificates-for-prison-guards-in-latvia-228888
Spain – Mass Covid outbreak in Cordoba prison
https://murciatoday.com/mass-covid-outbreak-in-cordoba-prison-_1660987-a.html
Turkey - COVID-19 outbreak reported at Antalya prisons
https://turkeypurge.com/covid-19-outbreak-reported-at-antalya-prisons
Oceania
Australia - Victorian courts consider only allowing jurors who are fully vaccinated
New Zealand - Three Mt Eden prison Covid cases, one transferred to hospital
News 8 October
Africa
Kenya - 30,000 inmates get Covid vaccine in plan to resume visitation
Liberia: ‘Detainees are Five Times More at Risk of Contracting COVID-19’ — EU Head of Delegation Cautions Inmates to Get Vaccinated
Americas
US - Gov. Wolf Announces Pennsylvania Prison Population Reaches 20-Year Low
US (Texas) - Prison staff death toll spikes after state relaxes coronavirus precautions behind bars
Europe
England and Wales - How the pandemic is hurting women leaving prison
https://www.huckmag.com/perspectives/how-the-pandemic-is-hurting-women-leaving-prison/
Northern Ireland - Inmates in crisis held in units designed for solitary confinement
News 7 October
Africa
More Than 50 Percent Of Prisoners In Kenya Vaccinated Against COVID-19
Americas
US - Federal Bureau Of Prisons Staff 63% Vaccinated But Union Digging In Heels On Mandate
US Prisons Were Covid Hothouses During Pandemic First Wave
US - New York’s Already Low Prison Vaccinations Plateau Through The Summer
https://wskg.org/news/new-yorks-already-low-prison-vaccinations-plateau-through-the-summer/
US (California) - Public Health Sees COVID-19 Outbreaks at Correctional Facilities
https://lasentinel.net/public-health-sees-covid-19-outbreaks-at-correctional-facilities.html
Asia
Laos - Forty Lao Prisoners Found Infected With COVID-19
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/prisoners-10062021192736.html
Philippines - Late submission of inmates’ prison records slowing down efforts to decongest jails
Europe
England and Wales - Inspection finds ‘high levels of violence’ plaguing Staffordshire prison
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/-staffy-prison-violence
News 6 October
Americas
Bahamas - Another Suspected Covid Case At Prison
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2021/oct/05/another-suspected-covid-case-prison/
US - COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate Could Exacerbate Understaffing in Federal Prisons, Union Warns
Europe
England and Wales - Woodhill prison violence very high during pandemic says report
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-58802975
England and Wales - Court backlog 'may not return to pre-pandemic levels for another year' - Raab
COVID-19 restrictions lead to rights violations in Turkish prisons, bar association and medical chamber say
Oceania
Australia - COVID lockdown of prisoners at Alexander Maconochie Centre jail continues
Australia - Indigenous prisoners under 'extreme distress' amid pandemic healthcare fears
News 5 October
Americas
US - COVID precautions put more prisoners in isolation. It can mean long-term health woes
US - Electronic Monitoring Has Widened Its Net Amid COVID
https://truthout.org/articles/electronic-monitoring-has-widened-its-net-amid-covid/
Oceania
Almost 40 prisoners infected as COVID-19 spreads to five Victorian jails
Papua New Guinea – Buimo Jail in Lockdown
News 2-4 October
Americas
Ecuador to pardon up to 2,000 inmates after deadly prison riot
Asia
Cambodia - Pchum Ben ceremonies permitted with conditions in prisons
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/pchum-ben-ceremonies-permitted-conditions-prisons
India - Inmates in Odisha jail can now speak with visitors from glass cabin
Maldives - No plans to move high-risk inmates back to prison: Corrections
Philippines - DOH: More than 21,000 inmates fully vaccinated vs COVID-19
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/10/04/21/more-than-21000-inmates-fully-vaccinated-vs-covid-19
Sri Lanka - Prisons Department decides to permit visitation
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2021/10/04/prisons-department-decides-to-permit-visitation/
Europe
England and Wales - Norwich prison 'no longer a Covid outbreak site'
https://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/health/hmp-norwich-second-covid-outbreak-over-8381210
England and Wales - Some HMP Berwyn prisoners claim "unfair and inhumane" treatment during pandemic
Turkey’s prisoners lack access to healthcare - report
https://ahvalnews.com/turkey-prisons/turkeys-prisoners-lack-access-healthcare-report
News 1 October
Americas
US - Prison Inmates More Vaccinated Than Corrections Staff In At Least 13 States
US - Compassionate release became a life-or-death lottery for thousands of federal inmates during the pandemic
https://edition.cnn.com/2021/09/30/us/covid-prison-inmates-compassionate-release-invs/index.html
US - Governor Says Hawaiʻi Prisons Don't Have the Capacity to Fully Implement COVID Protocols
Asia
Thailand - Department recruits 74,000 prison inmates
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2190395/department-recruits-74-000-prison-inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Backlog of crown court criminal cases reaches record levels
News 30 September
Americas
US (California) - At San Quentin, Incarcerated People Organize For Safety As Prison Transfers Spread Covid-19
US - Massachusetts prison guard union files lawsuit to postpone Gov. Baker's COVID-19 vaccine mandate
https://news.yahoo.com/massachusetts-prison-guard-union-files-221514949.html
US - Protesters object to Alabama prison plan, use of COVID-19 federal funds
Asia
India - SC orders extension of parole of prisoners released in Kerala amid COVID-19 pandemic
Philippines - Iwahig Prison sets up COVID facility
https://mb.com.ph/2021/09/30/iwahig-prison-sets-up-covid-facility/
Europe
England and Wales - Year-long wait to see dentist at HMP Berwyn during pandemic, report states
Oceania
Australia - Prison in lockdown after confirmed covid case
https://citynews.com.au/2021/prison-in-lockdown-after-officer-allegedly-tests-positive-to-covid/
News 29 September
Africa
Prisons du Gabon : pas de vaccin covid, pas d’accès pour le personnel
https://gabonactu.com/prisons-du-gabon-pas-de-vaccin-covid-pas-dacces-pour-le-personnel/
Kenya - Government targets 50,000 prisoners in 5-Day Covid Vaccination drive
Americas
US - Office Of Inspector General Releases Survey On Federal Prisons’ Reaction To COVID-19
US - Judge requires Covid-19 vaccines for California prison staff
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/09/28/federal-judge-requires-vaccines-for-california-prison-staff/
Asia
Malaysia - Push to have prisoners vaccinated
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2021/09/29/push-to-have-prisoners-vaccinated
Europe
Ireland - More than 100 courts with technology for remote hearings in place by end of the year
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-40708550.html
News 24 – 28 September
Americas
Canada - Lawyers slam government after 43 catch COVID in latest outbreak at Edmonton Remand Centre
St Vincent & the Grenadines - Visitors prohibited at prison compounds
https://searchlight.vc/news/2021/09/24/visitors-prohibited-at-prison-compounds/
US (California) - A champion of COVID-19 vaccines, Newsom fights plan to mandate them for prison guards
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-09-24/newsom-covid-19-vaccines-prison-guards
US - Alabama Wants to Use $400 Million in COVID Relief Money to Build More Prisons
https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2021/09/alabama-covid-relief-money-prisons
Asia
India - Another COVID-19 Outbreak in Byculla Prison Highlights Lessons That Haven't Been Learnt
https://thewire.in/rights/byculla-prison-maharashtra-covid-19-outbreak
India - SC Approves 'FASTER' System for Releasing Prisoners, Tells Jails to Accept e-Bail Orders
India - Bengaluru's NIMHANS offers stress management for prisoners amid COVID-19 pandemic
Indonesia - Comprehensive reforms needed to tackle prison overcrowding: Activists
Malaysia - Over 51,000 prison inmates, personnel infected with Covid-19 since last year, says Deputy Home Minister
Philippines - 682 inmates, 67 personnel at Leyte Regional Prison get COVID vaccines
https://mb.com.ph/2021/09/27/682-inmates-67-personnel-at-leyte-regional-prison-get-covid-vaccines/
Europe
Ireland - Include us in any Covid reward, say prison officers
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/include-us-in-any-covid-reward-say-prison-officers-2ht9352zg
Northern Ireland - Concerns raised over amount of time that prisoners spent in isolation units
News 23 September
Africa
Liberia: Covid-19 Vaccines Extend to 2076 Inmates in Prisons Across the Country
https://allafrica.com/stories/202109230628.html
Americas
Canada - Federal inmates in Sask. boast second highest vaccination rate in country
Guyana - Cluster au centre pénitentiaire, 36 cas de Covid-19 désormais recensés : 13 surveillants et 23 détenus
US - To help stop the spread of COVID-19, stop packing a major hot spot: prisons and jails
https://eu.usatoday.com/story/opinion/policing/2021/09/23/covid-empty-prisons-jails/8335430002/
US - COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy high among Michigan prison inmates
US (Hawaii) - Public defender tells state high court prison situation ‘dire’
News 22 September
Americas
British Virgin Islands - Mandatory COVID testing for detainees due to non-cooperation
https://bvinews.com/mandatory-covid-testing-for-detainees-due-to-non-cooperation/
St Lucia - Prisoner vaccination a major issue at BCF
https://stlucia.loopnews.com/content/prisoner-vaccination-major-issue-bcf
US (Texas) - Delta variant outbreak infects highly vaccinated prison population, but few were hospitalized, CDC says
Europe
Cyprus - Coronavirus: Cases in prison means those on remand held in police cells
England and Wales - London gets new Nightingale court as cases backlog races ahead of rest of country
News 18 – 21 September
Africa
Tunisia: Covid-19 - 4,170 Inmates Vaccinated So Far
https://allafrica.com/stories/202109180122.html
Americas
Martinique - Covid : une vingtaine de prisonniers positifs à la prison de Ducos
https://viaatv.tv/covid-une-vingtaine-de-prisonniers-positifs-a-la-prison-de-ducos/
US - There Are Fewer People Behind Bars Now Than 10 Years Ago. Will It Last?
US - Biden Considering Options To Avoid Returning Federal Inmates To Prison Post Covid-19
US - Nearly half of Kentucky prison staff remain unvaccinated, including 67% at 1 facility
US - Inmate Vaccination Rates Climb In Hawaii Prisons And Jails
https://www.civilbeat.org/beat/inmate-vaccination-rates-climb-in-hawaii-prisons-and-jails/
Asia
Bangladesh - High Court asks government to appoint 29 prison doctors promptly
Pakistan - Over 3,000 prisoners vaccinated in Adiala Jail
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/893633-over-3-000-prisoners-vaccinated-in-adiala-jail
Thailand - Nakhon Si Thammarat prison sealed off as infections climb
https://thethaiger.com/news/national/nakhon-si-thammarat-prison-sealed-off-as-infections-climb
Thailand - Second COVID death from outbreak at Phuket Prison
https://www.thephuketnews.com/second-covid-death-from-outbreak-at-phuket-prison-81442.php
Europe
England and Wales - Ministry of Justice overhaul as prison population predicted to hit nearly 100,000
England and Wales - Court cases hit after prisoners test positive for coronavirus
https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/19592622.court-cases-hit-prisoners-test-positive-coronavirus/
England and Wales - HMYOI Aylesbury declares itself Covid outbreak site
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-58638250
Northern Ireland - Almost 400 inmates granted temporary release to help prisons cope with pandemic challenges
Scotland - More than 70 prisoners isolating amid fresh Covid outbreak at HMP Grampian
Oceania
Australia - Public Service Association says jabs should be mandatory for prison staff and inmates
Australia - One in ten Parklea prison inmates has COVID-19, unable to call relatives
New Zealand - Man in Mt Eden prison tests positive for Covid-19
https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/man-in-mt-eden-prison-tests-positive-covid-19
News 17 September
Americas
Cayman Islands - Prisons closed to public as staffer tests COVID-19 positive
US - Confinement and COVID-19: A Plea for Humanity for People in Prison | Opinion
https://www.newsweek.com/confinement-covid-19-plea-humanity-people-prison-opinion-1629548
US - New York’s Rikers Island jail spirals into chaos amid Covid pandemic
Asia
Nepal - Baitadi prison poses COVID-19 risks due to overcrowding
https://english.khabarhub.com/2021/16/209658/
Thailand - Prison declared field hospital as 1,195 inmates catch virus
Europe
Isle of Man - COVID-19: IoM Prison visits resume
https://www.three.fm/news/isle-of-man-news/covid-19-iom-prison-visits-resume/
Oceania
Australia - NSW youth corrections officer dies from Covid as prison cases surge
News 16 September
Americas
US - Utah inmates died after parole board declined to increase ‘compassionate releases’
US - Inmates Sue Northern Indiana Prison
https://www.wfyi.org/news/articles/inmates-sue-northern-indiana-prison
Asia
Thailand - Large cluster of infections inside prison
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2182927/large-cluster-of-infections-inside-prison
Europe
Scotland - Nine in 10 under-18 cons in Polmont prison awaiting trial amid court Covid backlog
https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/scottish-news/7708973/polmont-young-offenders-remand/
News 15 September
Americas
US - How Kansas Prisons Dodged A Delta COVID Surge After Getting Hit Hard Early In The Pandemic
US - Governor sets Nov. 1 deadline for Nevada prison workers to get COVID shot
https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/sep/14/governor-sets-nov-1-deadline-for-nevada-prison-wor/
Asia
India - Ensure continuous administration of vaccines to prisoners: HC to Kerala govt
https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2021/09/15/kerala-high-court-covid-vaccine-for-prisoners.html
Indonesia - C Sulawesi: Parigi penitentiary inmates start receiving COVID shots
Philippines - Vaccinating Persons Deprived of Liberty must be a gov't priority
Europe
England and Wales - Nightingale courts open for another six months to ease backlog
France - COVID-19: Plusieurs Clusters Détectés Dans Les Prisons De La Métropole Lyonnaise
News 10-14 September
Africa
South Africa - How one woman convinced an entire Bloemfontein prison to vaccinate
Tunisia: Covid-19 - Over 3, 000 Inmates Vaccinated Until September 6
https://allafrica.com/stories/202109100168.html
Uganda - Nakatunya prison closed after surge in Covid-19 infections
https://www.independent.co.ug/nakatunya-prison-closed-after-surge-in-covid-19-infections/
Americas
Guyana - Almost half of all prisoners fully vaccinated against COVID-19
US - Biden starts clemency process for inmates released due to Covid conditions
https://www.politico.com/news/2021/09/13/biden-clemency-covid-inmates-511658
US (Mississippi) - MDOC says 89% of incarcerated population is fully vaccinated, though some say they’re still waiting on second dose
https://mississippitoday.org/2021/09/13/mdoc-says-89-of-incarcerated-population-is-fully-vaccinated/
US (Nevada) - Health board votes to require vaccinations for all prison employees
https://pvtimes.com/news/health-board-votes-to-require-vaccinations-for-all-prison-employees-104525/
US - Hawaii’s incarcerated population 5.5 times more likely to die of COVID-19, report finds
Asia
Bahrain makes all prisoners eligible for 'alternative' sentences
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/bahrain-says-prisoners-eligible-alternative-sentences
India - Strict measures help contain Covid spread in Kochi jails
India - Bihar planning 93 additional wards to decongest overcrowded prisons
Philippines - DOJ, DILG asked to disclose vaccination plans for prisoners
https://mb.com.ph/2021/09/12/doj-dilg-asked-to-disclose-vaccination-plans-for-prisoners/
Europe
Belgium - Alternative sentences needed to relieve pressure on prison capacity, report finds
England and Wales - London prison so bad that inmates hardly leave their cells and eat out of tin foil
https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/london-prison-bad-inmates-hardly-21537600
Bleak picture of log-jammed criminal courts as Northern Ireland's justice system sees longest delays ever recorded
Oceania
Australia - Inside the New South Wales Covid-19 prison outbreak
Australia (NSW) - Parklea prison cluster jumps to 169
https://www.perthnow.com.au/politics/law-and-order/parklea-prison-cluster-jumps-to-169-c-3928257
Australia - Victorian prison records COVID-19 case
https://www.perthnow.com.au/politics/law-and-order/victorian-prison-records-covid-19-case-c-3949387
Australia - Fear grows of COVID outbreak in Canberra’s jail
https://thenewdaily.com.au/news/state/act/2021/09/12/fear-covid-canberra-jail/
News 9 September
Americas
US - Covid patients were unknowingly given ivermectin in an Arkansas jail
US - Wyoming Reports 26 New Covid Cases Among Prison Inmates And Staff
Asia
Malaysia - Covid-19: Inoculation drive begins in Sabah prisons this week
Europe
England and Wales - Sheppey prison HMP Swaleside praised for reaction to Covid-19 pandemic in annual report
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/sheerness/news/prison-praised-for-response-to-pandemic-253547/
France - Covid-19. Nouveau cluster à la prison de Saint-Quentin-Fallavier, le troisième en moins d'un an
Isle of Man - Prisoners praised for conduct during Covid restrictions
Oceania
Australia - NSW corrections officials concede vaccine rollout hampered by limited Pfizer access
French Polynesia - La Covid-19 passe les murs de la prison de Nuutania
https://www.tntv.pf/tntvnews/polynesie/societe/la-covid-19-passe-les-murs-de-la-prison-de-nuutania/
New Zealand - Covid 19 coronavirus Delta outbreak: Tempers frayed inside Waikato's Spring Hill Prison as level 3 restrictions remain
News 7-8 September
Africa
Spread of Covid-19 Delta variant fuels deep concern for Egypt's prison population
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/delta-variant-fuels-deep-concern-egypts-prisoners
Kenya - Prison rejects jailed minor after he tests positive for Covid-19
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison officers pleased to have vaccines – but say they should do own research
Asia
Fire at overcrowded Indonesian prison leaves at least 41 dead
https://news.sky.com/story/fire-at-overcrowded-indonesian-prison-leaves-at-least-41-dead-12401821
Philippines - 700 more BuCor prisoners vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2021/09/08/700-more-bucor-prisoners-vaccinated/
Man in Vietnam Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Spreading Covid-19
https://gizmodo.com/man-in-vietnam-sentenced-to-five-years-in-prison-for-sp-1847627490
Oceania
New Zealand - Spring Hill prison stays at Alert Level 3: No visits, reintegration activities outside prison, or face-to-face rehabilitation programmes
New Zealand - Covid-19: Prisoners put in isolation with new inmates after escorted trips outside the wire
News 3-6 September
Africa
African Centre: Sudan must do more to protect detainees from COVID-19
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - 200 Johnson & Johnson vaccines distributed to prisons
https://tt.loopnews.com/content/200-johnson-johnson-vaccines-distributed-prisons
US - COVID Mitigation Efforts in State Prisons Called ‘Shameful Failure’
US - Drastically Reducing Jail Population Could Curb Covid Nearly As Much As Mask Mandates, Study Says
US - Michigan prison employees don’t have a COVID vaccine mandate, increasing the risk for inmates, experts say
US - Big drop in COVID-19 outbreaks in Michigan prisons
https://www.michiganradio.org/post/big-drop-covid-19-outbreaks-michigan-prisons
US (Hawaii) - Class action suit over state’s handling of COVID in prisons results in new panel to oversee health concerns
Asia
India - Karnataka: Hi-tech visitor facilities to protect jail inmates in Dharwad
Malaysia - Covid: New cluster involving detention centre detected in Keningau
Maldives - Additional jail officer from Maafushi Prison tests positive
Europe
How Scotland's prison service is coping with emerging from Covid - Ash Denham
Extra courts operating across Scotland as part of Covid recovery scheme to clear backlogs
Oceania
Australia - Covid vaccines earmarked for NSW prison inmates diverted to HSC students
New Zealand - Some prisoners have 'no idea' when their trials will be heard
News 2 September
Americas
US - State Prison Populations Shrink By 14%: Study
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/09/01/state-prison-populations-shrink-by-14-study/
US (New Jersey) - Prisoners offered incentives, including time off their sentence, to get COVID-19 vaccine
Asia
Indonesia - 1,000 Pekanbaru prison inmates receive second COVID-19 shot
https://en.antaranews.com/news/187006/1000-pekanbaru-prison-inmates-receive-second-covid-19-shot
Europe
England and Wales - Damning report finds Hull prison patients at risk from healthcare shortfalls
Oceania
Australia - Human rights advocates and families want the vaccine rollout ramped up in NSW prisons
News 1 September
Americas
US (Kentucky) - COVID-19 Deaths, Infection Rates in Ky. Prisons Among Nation’s Worst
https://wfpl.org/kycir-covid-19-deaths-infection-rates-in-ky-prisons-among-nations-worst/
Asia
Indonesia - 60% E Java prison inmates have received first COVID shot
https://en.antaranews.com/news/186758/60-e-java-prison-inmates-have-received-first-covid-shot
Lao Prisoners Who Feared COVID-19 Infection Recaptured After Brief Jailbreak
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/jailbreak-08312021171541.html
Philippines - No COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among PDLs, says BJMP spox
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/31/21/no-covid-vaccine-hesitancy-among-pdls-says-bjmp-spox
Oceania
Australia - Renewed call for early release of low-risk prisoners as inmate vaccination rates revealed
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-09-01/covid-prison-risks-and-inmate-vaccination-rates/100424864
Australia - More than 110 NSW prisoners test positive
https://www.mcivortimes.com.au/national/2021/09/01/5057323/more-than-110-nsw-prisoners-test-positive
Australia - Over a third of Vic prisoners COVID vaxxed
New Zealand - Spring Hill Covid-19 case shows why screws should be tightened on Auckland, says expert
News 20-31 August
Americas
Antigua - Contact tracing underway at Prison after inmate tests positive for covid
Jamaica - Majority of prisoners say no to vaccine
https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/majority-of-prisoners-say-no-to-vaccine_230078?profile=1373
Trinidad & Tobago - Ministers address COVID vaccination concerns in prisons
US - Thousands of prisoners have died of covid-19. Because of the ‘tough on crime’ era, there’s worse to come.
US - Delta Is Coming For Jails And Prisons, And The System Isn’t Ready To Protect The Incarcerated
US - Despite early access to COVID-19 vaccines, Oregon prison staff vaccination rates lag
US - Covid: Arkansas jail dosing inmates with ivermectin in spite of FDA warnings
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/26/arkansas-jail-dosing-inmates-ivermectin-covid
US (North Carolina) - NC prisons and jails reporting increased COVID cases amidst Delta surge
US - Crowding in Massachusetts prisons led to increase in COVID-19 cases
US (Florida) - ‘The numbers don’t lie.’ COVID hits Miami’s justice system with deaths, staff shortages
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/crime/article253680153.html
Asia
Cambodia - J & J COVID-19 vaccines administered to more than 2,000 inmates at Siem Reap provincial prison
India - Over 10,000 doses given to inmates in Delhi jails
India - Tihar authorities to release 1,000 prisoners on parole every 2 months
COVID-19 cases in Laos surge due to outbreak in prison
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/2021-08/23/c_1310143565.htm
Nepal - All inmates at oldest central prison vaccinated against COVID-19
‘We were punch bags’: North Korean prison beatings may be form of torture, says UN
Philippines - No inmates in New Bilibid Prison vaccinated for COVID-19 so far — BuCor exec
Philippines - Plea deals, pandemic decongest jails but 'still way beyond accepted standards' – COA
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Chelmsford: Urgent warning over prison's chronic failures
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-58351013
England and Wales - Covid-19 outbreak at HMP Send led to prison staff member dying
https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/covid-19-outbreak-hmp-send-21410170
England and Wales - More than 30 HMP Peterborough staff off work due to COVID
Mental health of Irish prisoners abroad worsened by Covid-19
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-40367249.html
Prison officer in Northern Ireland dies after contracting Covid-19
Contact visitation not allowed in Turkish prisons since beginning of pandemic despite reopening
Oceania
Australia - NSW locks down prisons over Covid fears but refuses to reveal inmate vaccination rates
Australia - NSW prisons considering emergency release of some inmates if outbreak worsens
Contact experiences and needs of children of prisoners before and during COVID-19: Findings from an Australian survey
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/cfs.12873
New Zealand - Two per cent of inmates at Hawke's Bay Regional Prison fully vaccinated
New Zealand - Prison officers can't avoid breaking their Covid-19 work bubbles - union
News 19 August
Africa
Uganda Prisons Service Resumes Vaccination of Inmates After Receiving 13,000 AstraZeneca Doses
Americas
Antigua & Barbuda - Prison officials pleased with internal Covid-19 management efforts
https://antiguaobserver.com/prison-officials-pleased-with-internal-covid-19-management-efforts/
US - Nebraska prison system reports outbreak as COVID cases surge
US - Federal inmates in Oregon report alarming health conditions as pandemic continues
Asia
India - Uttar Pradesh: Jail inmates meet kin as curbs end after 18 months
India - Jails overcrowded up to four times, Uttar Pradesh extends parole for 2500 prisoners
Europe
England and Wales - Covid: HMP Altcourse inmate, 70, not told to shield before death
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-merseyside-58255544
England and Wales - Detainees at detention centre near Heathrow 'very scared' after Covid outbreak with 'staff joking about having virus'
https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/detainees-detention-centre-near-heathrow-21345236
Ireland - Prison healthcare review delayed due to Covid-19 pandemic
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/prison-healthcare-review-delayed-due-to-covid-19-pandemic
Isle of Man - Prison visits 'under review'
https://www.three.fm/news/isle-of-man-news/prison-visits-under-review/
Northern Ireland - No change in Covid-19 prison isolation rules
Oceania
Papua New Guinea – Red Cross Partners Jails to Fight Coronavirus
https://postcourier.com.pg/red-cross-partners-jails-to-fight-coronavirus/
News 18 August
Americas
Guadeloupe - Vaccination : Oui, un centre pénitentiaire a bien établi un lien entre vaccination et remise de peine
US - COVID-19 vaccine required for all prison staff, says Colorado Department of Corrections
https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/covid-19-vaccine-required-prison-staff-colorado/
US (California) - People are dying in Sacramento County jails. The sheriff isn’t telling the public
https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article253422244.html
Europe
England and Wales - Drug smuggling pensioner was jail's fifth inmate to die with Covid
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/drug-smuggling-pensioner-jails-fifth-21334347
Oceania
Australia - NSW jails to get another round of vaccines
http://www.mcivortimes.com.au/national/2021/08/18/4940463/nsw-jails-to-get-another-round-of-vaccines
Australia - ‘Preventable lapse in protocol’ risks COVID-19 outbreak in NSW prisons
https://nit.com.au/preventable-lapse-in-protocol-risks-covid-19-outbreak-in-nsw-prisons/
News 14 – 17 August
Africa
Gambia Prisons Service - the Prisons Are Still Congested
https://allafrica.com/stories/202108160205.html
How COVID-19 transformed the Kenyan court system
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/covid-19-kenya-court-system-60-minutes-2021-08-15/
Malawi - 3,000 plus inmates jabbed against Covid-19
https://www.nyasatimes.com/3-000-plus-inmates-jabbed-against-covid-19/
Mauritius - Covid-19 : Cluster Dans Les Prisons Mauriciennes Avec 250 Détenus Positifs
Americas
Cayman Islands - Prisons watchdog highlights concerns
https://www.caymancompass.com/2021/08/13/prisons-watchdog-highlights-concerns/
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisoners lose appeal on covid19 protection
https://newsday.co.tt/2021/08/16/prisoners-lose-appeal-on-covid19-protection/
Trinidad & Tobago - Ministers going into prisons for vaccine education drive
US - Texas Counted More Prison Suicides In 2020 Than In Any Other Year Over The Last Two Decades
US - Top California law enforcement agencies report vaccination rates far lower than public
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/16/california-police-prison-guards-vaccination-rates
Asia
No Covid jab yet for Bangladesh prisoners
https://www.newagebd.net/article/146447/no-covid-jab-yet-for-bangladesh-prisoners
Cambodia - Vaccinations for prisoners may finish by August’s end
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/vaccinations-prisoners-may-finish-augusts-end
India - Negative RT-PCR report mandatory for meeting jail inmates in Uttar Pradesh
Israel Expands COVID Booster Shot Campaign for Health Workers, Prisoners and Wardens
Covid-19 Surge in Myanmar’s Prisons
https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/08/16/covid-19-surge-myanmars-prisons
Nepal - Crowded jails, new inmates raise Covid-19 risks
https://kathmandupost.com/national/2021/08/17/crowded-jails-new-inmates-raise-covid-19-risks
Sri Lanka - Circular regarding wellbeing of prisoners, issued
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2021/08/16/circular-regarding-wellbeing-of-prisoners-issued/
Europe
England and Wales - UK trails other countries in prison Covid jabs
https://insidetime.org/uk-trails-other-countries-in-prison-covid-jabs/
England and Wales - Foreign inmates kept in prison after release date
England and Wales - Several inmates at HMP Portland test positive for Covid-19
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/19513052.several-inmates-hmp-portland-test-positive-covid-19/
England and Wales - Coroner calls for stronger safety regime after Pentonville Covid death
Ireland - Significant fall in number of people sent to prison during COVID pandemic
Ireland - Coronavirus: All prisoners have now been offered vaccine
Oceania
Australia - NSW prison officers plead for more jabs
https://thewest.com.au/news/coronavirus/nsw-prison-officers-plead-for-more-jabs-c-3708040
Australia (NSW) - Government and courts urged to release prisoners and grant bail to minimise Covid risk
https://www.miragenews.com/government-and-courts-urged-to-release-614863/
News 13 August
Africa
Uganda - Rukiga district officials fear COVID-19 outbreak among prisoners
Americas
US - Prisons are where America most needs vaccine mandates
https://qz.com/2046347/prisons-are-where-vaccine-mandates-are-most-needed/
US - As COVID-19 surges, Louisiana has vaccinated 24 percent of its incarcerated youth
Asia
India - Tamil Nadu prisons to allow visitors to meet inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Leeds prison punished inmates by restricting showers, report finds
England and Wales - Over 300 inmates and staff at Peterborough prison had Covid during major outbreak
https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/news/local-news/over-300-inmates-staff-peterborough-21296295
England and Wales - Vaccine rates in prisons lag behind rest of country prompting fear of Covid outbreaks
Oceania
Australia - Call for rapid COVID-19 testing in prisons after former inmate's positive result takes four days
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-08-13/bathurst-jail-concerns-after-covid-exposure/100371298
News 12 August
Africa
Egypt's prisoners are denied their rights and prison authorities appear to be above the law
Liberia: Inmates Reportedly Dying Slowly From Hunger At Gbarnga Prison
https://allafrica.com/stories/202108110703.html
Americas
Barbados - Prison moving to prevent another COVID-19 lockdown
https://barbadostoday.bb/2021/08/12/prison-moving-to-prevent-another-covid-19-lockdown/
US - Prison suicides have been rising for years. Experts fear the pandemic has made it worse.
US (Louisiana) - COVID cases among state prisoners more than double since last week, with eight hospitalizations
US (Pennsylvania) - Low reports of prison staff COVID-19 shots leave vulnerability on both sides of the wire
US Virgin Islands - Mass Testing at STX Prison After COVID-19 Outbreak
https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/08/11/mass-testing-at-stx-prison-after-covid-19-outbreak/
Asia
Israeli prison shuts down as 23 inmates test positive for COVID
Europe
Isle of Man - Vaccine uptake at prison 'slow'
https://www.manxradio.com/news/isle-of-man-news/vaccine-uptake-at-prison-slow/
Oceania
Australia - NSW inmate released on bail before prison received positive Covid test result
News 11 August
Africa
Lesotho- Covid hits prisons
https://menafn.com/1102603236/Lesotho-Covid-hits-prisons
Americas
US - Jailhouse Lawyers Take On Covid-19 Where Prisons Won’t
https://shadowproof.com/2021/08/10/jailhouse-lawyers-take-on-covid-19-where-prisons-wont/
US - Documents Foreshadow a Grim Future for COVID-19 Spread in Federal Prisons
US - 30 New COVID Cases Reported In Massachusetts Prisons
https://www.wbur.org/news/2021/08/10/souza-baranowski-prisoners-coronavirus-positive-cases
US Virgin Islands - COVID-19 outbreak confirmed at St. Thomas jail
Asia
Battling Covid-19 Behind Bars In Pakistan
https://inkstickmedia.com/battling-covid-19-behind-bars-in-pakistan/
Europe
England and Wales - Coffee, covid and bedbugs: Life inside a Teesside prison during pandemic
https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/coffee-covid-bedbugs-life-inside-21274067
England and Wales - Female self-harm rates in prison hits record high over pandemic
News 10 August
Africa
Côte d'Ivoire : Administration pénitentiaire, les Syndicats réclament des primes COVID-19, la nomination d'un nouveau Directeur de l'école du personnel pénitentiaire et menacent d'entrer en grève
Americas
US - Citing COVID threat, researchers urge policy changes to ease prison crowding
US - Get a Covid-19 Vaccine or Face Prison, Judges Order in Probation Cases
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/09/us/ohio-judge-covid-vaccine.html
US - Staffing shortages leave critical posts unmanned at Hawaii’s largest prison
US - California correctional officers union to fight new COVID-19 vaccine mandate, memo says
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article253378123.html
US - As new COVID cases hit Florida prisons, staff vaccination rates are unknown
US (North Carolina) - A rare piece of good Covid-19 news: NC prisons appear to be a good test case for vaccine efficacy
Asia
Nepal - Tanahun jailbirds deprived of treatment
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/tanahun-jailbirds-deprived-of-treatment
Europe
The Irish Times view on prison reform: A need to look to the long-term
Turkey - New warden pressuring inmates with arbitrary restrictions in İstanbul’s Silivri Prison, families claim
News 7-9 August
Africa
Mauritius - Prisons: 97 % du personnel vacciné et 65 % des détenus
https://www.lexpress.mu/article/397710/prisons-97-personnel-vaccine-et-65-detenus
Nigeria - ‘Gombe prison built for 378 inmates has over 1,000
https://punchng.com/gombe-prison-built-for-378-inmates-has-over-1000/
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Covid cluster at Carrera Island prison - 34 inmates test positive
https://newsday.co.tt/2021/08/09/covid-cluster-at-carrera-island-prison-34-inmates-test-positive/
US (Ohio) - Prisons try incentives, education to get staff vaxxed, with mixed results
https://www.freshwatercleveland.com/features/PrisonVaxxFolloUp080921.aspx
US - Youths in Louisiana's juvenile lock-ups test positive for COVID-19 as staff vaccine rates lag
https://www.nola.com/news/coronavirus/article_dcd71dd8-f6fd-11eb-9076-b71e12a23850.html
Asia
Cambodia - GDP reports 73 per cent of inmates now vaccinated
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/gdp-reports-73-cent-inmates-now-vaccinated
1,65,108 Prisoners Across India Given First COVID Jab, Reveals Centre; Delhi Ranks Lowest
Pakistan - Jails serve as breeding ground for diseases
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314397/jails-serve-as-breeding-ground-for-diseases
Philippines - 150 persons get COVID-19 vaccines at SRPPF — BuCor
https://mb.com.ph/2021/08/08/150-persons-get-covid-19-vaccines-at-srppf-bucor/
Europe
England and Wales - Calls for lessons to be learned as prison confirms second Covid outbreak
https://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/health/hmp-norwich-confirms-second-covid-outbreak-8215998
Ireland - Family visits resume as 75pc of prisoners offered two jabs
Covid-19 outbreak at the Isle of Man Prison
Northern Ireland - Magilligan prisoner to legally challenge Covid-19 quarantine
Anti-vaxxer inmate sparks outbreak in Spanish prison
https://www.euroweeklynews.com/2021/08/06/anti-vaxxer-inmate-sparks-outbreak-in-spanish-prison/
News 6 August
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 has caused delays, fuelled technology use in Sask.'s justice system
https://thestarphoenix.com/news/local-news/covid-and-the-courts-feature
Outbreaks of COVID-19 variants in US prisons: a mathematical modelling analysis of vaccination and reopening policies
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(21)00162-6/fulltext
US - Some Older Prisoners Aren’t Eligible For Compassionate Release. Lawmakers Want Change
https://www.kpbs.org/news/2021/aug/06/some-older-prisoners-arent-eligible-for/
US (Hawaii) - Maui Jail, Halawa Prison Report New COVID-19 Outbreaks
https://www.civilbeat.org/beat/maui-jail-halawa-prison-report-new-covid-19-outbreaks/
US (Pennsylvania) - Pa. Department of Corrections changing visitation policy amid rise in COVID-19 cases
Asia
India - 3,870 jail inmates in Kerala contracted COVID-19, two died
Myanmar Junta Vaccinating Prisoners Against COVID-19
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-vaccinating-prisoners-against-covid-19.html
Sri Lanka - Prisoners to get COVID-19 vaccine from today
https://srilankamirror.com/news/24142-prisoners-to-get-covid-19-vaccine-from-today
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners Released on Temporary Licence Plummet
https://bylinetimes.com/2021/08/05/prisoners-released-on-temporary-licence-plummet/
Fifth coronavirus wave hits Spain’s prisons
https://english.elpais.com/society/2021-08-06/fifth-coronavirus-wave-hits-spains-prisons.html
News 5 August
Africa
South Africa - More than 68,500 prison inmates have been vaccinated
Americas
ICRC supports vaccination of more than 20,600 people in Honduran prisons
U.S. civil rights groups propose path to keep inmates home after pandemic emergency
US - California prison overseer calls for mandatory COVID vaccines for all guards, staff
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article253263213.html
US - Florida prison inmate numbers expected to increase after pandemic drop
US Virgin Islands - Prison outbreak infects 7; Corrections orders weekly COVID-19 testing for staff
Asia
Thailand pushes for “Strengthening of Criminal Justice Systems” in response to COVID-19 at UN Forum
Europe
Ireland - Video-links undermine inmate’s right to attend court – report
‘Prisoners still subjected to strip search in Turkey’s prisons’
News 4 August
Africa
Mauritius - Covid-19 : la prison de Petit Verger convertie en centre de quarantaine, plus de 250 détenus transférés
Americas
US - COVID Froze Prison Visits, Spotlighting High Cost of Phone Calls
US - COVID-19 outbreak prompts lockdown at Alaska women’s prison
US - Alabama offering $5 in canteen credit to prisoners who get vaccinated
https://abcnews.go.com/US/alabama-offering-canteen-credit-prisoners-vaccinated/story?id=79224396
Asia
Indonesia - Surviving the pandemic behind prison walls
https://en.antaranews.com/news/181982/surviving-the-pandemic-behind-prison-walls
Human Rights Watch calls for release of Iranian prisoners as COVID-19 crisis worsens
https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iran/030820212
Europe
Ireland - Prisoners denied ‘meaningful human contact’ due to Covid measures
Northern Ireland - Long-awaited drug recovery unit at Maghaberry Prison delayed due to pandemic
Oceania
Australia - Visits restricted at all Qld prisons
https://www.miragenews.com/visits-restricted-at-all-qld-prisons-607751/
News 3 August
Africa
Botswana - COVID-19 Hits F/Town Prison, Paralyses Justice System
https://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?aid=90871&dir=2021/august/02
Kenya - Report: Covid-19 slowed the wheels of justice
Americas
US - Vaccination rates in Colorado prisons remain low as COVID-19 cases spike across the state
US - New Jersey issues COVID-19 vaccine mandate for state healthcare and prison workers
https://news.yahoo.com/jersey-issues-covid-19-vaccine-193400673.html
US - NY Prison Arts and Reentry Programs Persist Throughout Pandemic
https://citylimits.org/2021/08/02/ny-prison-arts-and-reentry-programs-persist-throughout-pandemic/
US (California) - CDCR To Expand In-Person Visitations; Active Cases Cross 100 After Weeks of Low Numbers
https://www.davisvanguard.org/2021/08/cdcr-expands-in-person-visits-active-cases-surge/
Asia
Israel - Knesset approves mix of in-court, virtual prisoner hearings
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/knesset-approves-mix-of-in-court-virtual-prisoner-hearings-675641
Thailand - Jail harvest enlisted in Covid fight
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2158843/jail-harvest-enlisted-in-covid-fight
News 31 July – 2 August
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons Commissioner on 'riot': We are still in control at prisons
https://newsday.co.tt/2021/07/31/prisons-commissioner-on-riot-we-are-still-in-control-at-prisons/
US - Four Ways The Pandemic Made Us Rethink Our Criminal Legal System
US - Bureau Of Prisons Transfers Hundreds Of Inmates Into Miami’s COVID-19 Hotbed
US - Dozens of People Held at Utah Prison Receive COVID Vaccines
Asia
India - Glass cabins for inmates at Poojapura jail for seeing visitors
India - West Bengal Government Allows Premature Release Of 63 Convicts In View Of COVID Pandemic
Two More Female Political Prisoners Contract Covid In Iran Jail
https://iranintl.com/en/iran-in-brief/two-more-female-political-prisoners-contract-covid-iran-jail
Europe
Ireland - Number sent to prison down 30%
https://www.lawsociety.ie/gazette/top-stories/number-sent-to-prison-down-30/
Ireland - A fifth of prisoners on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety meds
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40350104.html
Italian NGO calls on government to address overcrowded prisons
https://www.euronews.com/2021/08/02/italian-ngo-calls-on-government-to-address-overcrowded-prisons
Shortage of defence lawyers adds to backlog in Scottish courts
Oceania
New Zealand - Assistant Māori Children's Commissioner: Restraints use at justice residence 'troubling'
News 30 July
Africa
South Africa - Spike in Covid-19 cases in prisons following unrest
Americas
Mexico - AMLO to issue decree freeing thousands of prison inmates
https://mexiconewsdaily.com/news/amlo-to-issue-decree-freeing-thousands-of-prison-inmates/
US - Vaccinated prisoners, unvaccinated guards illustrate Biden's tricky road
US judge may require vaccines for California prison staff
US - Vaccination rate in NY prisons at 46%, all inmates offered the vaccine
Asia
India - About 9,000 Covid vaccine doses administered in 3 Delhi jails: Officials
Israel Releases Hundreds of Prisoners Due to Prison Overcrowding
Nepal - 355 jailbirds from Bhimphedi prison test coronavirus positive
https://english.khabarhub.com/2021/30/199998/
Europe
Italian prisons face overcrowding, suicide problems
Ireland - Probation Service sees significant drop in referrals due to Covid
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-40348703.html
North Macedonia: Cramped prison conditions, detainee ill treatment and opaque prison management among longstanding concerns for anti-torture committee
77 inmates test positive for coronavirus in Spanish prison outbreak
https://www.laprensalatina.com/77-inmates-test-positive-for-coronavirus-in-spanish-prison-outbreak/
News 29 July
Africa
Liberia: Jeety Expands Inmates Feeding Program
https://allafrica.com/stories/202107280755.html
Mauritius - Covid-19 : la New Wing de la Prison Centrale annule toute incarcération pour 14 jours pour cause de contaminations
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons Commissioner admits vaccine hesitancy among inmates challenging
http://i955fm.com/prisons-commissioner-admits-vaccine-hesitancy-among-inmates-challenging/
US - South Dakota governor lifts mask requirement in prisons
US Virgin Islands - Three prisoners test positive for COVID-19 on St. Croix
Asia
Myanmar jail vaccinates hundreds amid surge in COVID-19 cases
Taiwan - COVID-19: NPP urges vaccination of prisoners and detainees
https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/07/29/2003761662
UAE - Abu Dhabi Police: Community service for minor offences is better than jail
Europe
Scottish trial backlog approaches 50,000 amid historic high remand population
News 28 July
Americas
US - Prisons Have Been Restricting Family Visits For Years. The Pandemic Showed Just How Fragile Those Policies Can Be.
https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/victoriavalenzuela/prison-visits-california-pandemic
US - Mississippi Department Of Corrections Cancels Prison Visitation To Prevent Spread Of Covid
US (Wisconsin) - Incarceration after COVID: how the pandemic could permanently change jails and prisons
US - COVID spike prompts Louisiana prison system to cancel visits and keep volunteers out
US - North Carolina’s Department of Public Safety Still Isn’t Reporting COVID-19 Prison Deaths Accurately
https://indyweek.com/news/northcarolina/DPS-failure-to-report-COVID-19-prison-deaths/
Asia
Philippines - 50 DPPF inmates get COVID vaccinations
https://mb.com.ph/2021/07/28/50-dppf-inmates-get-covid-vaccinations/
Thailand - HM King pardons inmates
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2155723/hm-king-pardons-inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Prison visitors to be allowed to hug locked up loved ones again
England and Wales - ‘Understaffed and overstretched’ Norwich prison praised for Covid response
https://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/hmp-norwich-praised-inspection-coronavirus-response-8187598
News 27 July
Americas
Canada - Nova Scotia report highlights concerns of prisoner conditions in provincial jails
https://globalnews.ca/news/8061020/report-highlights-concerns-prisoner-conditions-provincial-jails/
US - Criminal justice advocates in New York call for prison vaccination data
US (California) - CDCR Halts Early Release Program for Incarcerated People With <180-Days to Serve
https://www.davisvanguard.org/2021/07/cdcr-halts-180-days-early-release-program/
Asia
India - E-Mulakat service begins in two Odisha prisons
https://kalingatv.com/state/e-mulakat-service-begins-in-two-odisha-prisons/
India - HC asks Delhi govt to give details of COVID-19 vaccination drive on inmates in jail
Malaysia’s 70,000 prisoners unvaccinated
https://www.themalaysianinsight.com/s/329679
More than 4,000 released as Covid-19 cases surge in Myanmar’s prisons
News 24-26 July
Africa
Senegal - Covid-19 : Les visites en prison suspendues jusqu’à nouvel ordre
https://teranganews.sn/2021/07/covid-19-les-visites-en-prison-suspendues-jusqua-nouvel-ordre/
Americas
US - Biden Administration Putting Millions into Mitigating COVID Impacts on Prison Populations
US - Biden Upholds Last-Minute Trump Memo That Would Send 4,000 People Back to Prison
US - Telecom Vendors Used End of Prison Visits During COVID to Profit Off Phone Calls
US (Alabama) - State enticing inmates to get COVID-19 vaccination with $5 canteen credit
Asia
India - Covid-19: Panel grants extra 30 days parole to 747 convicts to decongest jails in Odisha
Protest erupts at Myanmar’s Insein prison amid COVID outbreak
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/7/24/myanmar-junta-replaces-envoy-to-britain-who-broke
Thailand - Kanchanaburi prison builds field hospital for 379 Covid-19 cases
https://thethaiger.com/coronavirus/kanchanaburi-prison-field-hospital-for-379-covid-19-cases
Europe
England and Wales - Almost half of inmates at North Wales prison refused Covid vaccination
https://www.deeside.com/almost-half-of-inmates-at-north-wales-prison-refused-covid-vaccination/
England and Wales - Thorn Cross conditions described as 'inhumane' after Covid outbreak
Oceania
Men detained in a crowded cell for not wearing face masks amid Fiji's worsening COVID-19 outbreak
News 23 July
Africa
South Africa - Health Minister: High number of KZN riot detainees test positive for coronavirus
Zimbabwe - Prisons Embark On Vaccination As 17 Inmates, Officers Succumb To Covid
https://www.newzimbabwe.com/prisons-embark-on-vaccination-as-17-inmates-officers-succumb-to-covid/
Americas
Ecuador president decrees emergency in prisons after clashes
Mexico: Torture worsens in times of pandemic - Executive Summary
https://reliefweb.int/report/mexico/mexico-torture-worsens-times-pandemic-executive-summary
US - Four steps to increase COVID-19 vaccinations among correctional officers
Asia
Cambodia - Five prisoners across country die from Covid
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/five-prisoners-across-country-die-covid
Rising COVID Infections, Unhygienic Conditions Raise Fears of More Deaths in Iranian Prisons
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Desperate’ prisoners scaled rooftops to protest against Covid restrictions
Scotland - Perth Prison transport team grounded after getting pinged by NHS Covid-19 app
News 22 July
Africa
Egypt expands release of prisoners to prevent COVID-19 transmission: experts
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/africa/2021-07/21/c_1310075860.htm
South Africa - Almost 1,700 in custody amid SA unrest – but jails are already severely overcrowded
https://www.businessinsider.co.za/south-africa-jails-too-overcrowded-for-arrested-looters-2021-7
Americas
Eighteen killed in Ecuador prison riots
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20210722-eighteen-killed-in-ecuador-prison-riots
Trinidad & Tobago - New prison boss: Jails to become high tech correctional facilities
US - Prisons close as California inmate population dwindles
https://capitolweekly.net/prisons-close-as-california-inmate-population-dwindles/
Asia
India - Majority of prison inmates in Kerala get first shot of Vaccine, Covid Overview
Myanmar - Many people waiting outside Insein prison after govt order to withdraw ongoing proceedings and release prisoners
Europe
England and Wales - Young people spent ‘at least 22 hours a day’ locked in rooms during pandemic, according review of YOIs
France - Coronavirus : 12 détenus contaminés ou cas contact à la prison de Béziers
Malta - Courts will be relieved of dealing with minor crimes in depenalisation exercise
Spain - The pandemic aggravates the situation of “deterioration” of justice
https://thesaxon.org/the-pandemic-aggravates-the-situation-of-deterioration-of-justice-spain/60257/
Turkey - Families and inmates mark fourth Eid without contact visitation
https://stockholmcf.org/families-and-inmates-mark-fourth-eid-without-contact-visitation/
News 21 July
Africa
South Africa - 'There is no social distancing in our cells' - inmates welcome govt's Covid-19 vaccination drive
Americas
Canada - Second doses of COVID-19 vaccine coming to Bordeaux prison
https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/second-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-coming-to-bordeaux-prison-1.5516579
US - The Pandemic Rush on Prison Weddings
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/21/style/the-pandemic-rush-on-prison-weddings.html
US - D.C. inmates reported lack of access to coronavirus tests, medical care as pandemic unfolded, report says
Asia
Prisons, Migrant Workers Key Fronts in Battle Against COVID-19 in Cambodia, Laos
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/cambodia/battle-against-covid-19-07202021183151.html
Thailand - Hundreds of Khon Kaen prisoners infected
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2152559/hundreds-of-khon-kaen-prisoners-infected
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners feeling ‘drained, despondent, helpless and without hope’, report inspectors
England and Wales - Prisoners ‘forced to defecate in buckets’ during pandemic, watchdog finds
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/prisons-isolation-covid-mental-health-b1887334.html
Italy - Cartabia vows probe into jail COVID riots
Scotland - Union concerns about Perth Prison security as staff isolate amid outbreak
https://planetradio.co.uk/tay/local/news/perth-prison-coronavirus-2/
News 20 July
Africa
South Africa - Prison inmates getting one-shot J&J Covid-19 vaccine: Lamola
Zimbabwe: Courts Halt Trials As Covid-19 Soars
https://allafrica.com/stories/202107200420.html
Americas
US - Biden Legal Team Decides Inmates Must Return to Prison After Covid Emergency
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/19/us/politics/biden-prisoners-covid.html
US - Captives Behind Plexiglass: How COVID Destroyed Prison Visits
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/07/20/captives-behind-plexiglass-how-covid-changed-prison-visits/
Asia
Cambodia - Inmate early release rules set
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/inmate-early-release-rules-set
Malaysia - Implement early behaved prisoner release, says PKR
https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/174832/implement-early-behaved-prisoner-release-says-pkr/
Europe
Ireland - Solicitors may request in-person jail visits to clients
Oceania
Australia - Majority of women in Victoria’s prisons have not been found guilty
News 17-19 July
Prison population surge triggers overcrowding, COVID casualties
700,000 prison inmates temporarily released over COVID-19 emergency – UN
https://punchng.com/700000-prison-inmates-temporarily-released-over-covid-19-emergency-un/
Africa
South Africa - Justice minister Lamola will launch vaccination programme for inmates, officials on Monday
Americas
Canada - MHCC releases recommendations to support inmates during pandemic
US - Louisiana’s prison system allowing in-person visits with attorneys again
US (Hawaii) - Inmate Deaths In Hawaii Prisons And Jails Are On The Upswing This Year
Asia
India - Jail inmates can again meet kin
http://www.millenniumpost.in/delhi/jail-inmates-can-again-meet-kin-446902
Israel Held Foreigners in Jail for Months as COVID Blocked Deportations
Malaysia - Sabah minister: Prisons contribute over 50pc of cases in state today
Keeping Covid-19 out of prisons in the Philippines
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2021/07/19/keeping-covid-19-out-of-prisons-in-the-philippines/
Thailand - Joint letter on prison conditions and COVID-19
https://www.fidh.org/en/region/asia/thailand/joint-letter-on-prison-conditions-and-covid-19
Europe
WHO/Europe shows high rates of COVID-19 vaccination in prisons
England and Wales - The reality of being in a Welsh prison during Covid
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/prison-inmate-coronavirus-covid-jail-21070523
Malta - Lawyers frustrated by limited access to new prison inmates
Netherlands - Prisons took into account the release of inmates due to pandemic last year
https://nltimes.nl/2021/07/17/prisons-took-account-release-inmates-due-pandemic-last-year
Scotland - Support for families to access virtual prison visits
Scotland - Almost 100 confirmed Covid cases in Perth Prison outbreak
News 16 July
Access to health care is the best way to protect prisons from COVID-19
Americas
US - COVID’S Legacy: A Justice System With a ‘Lighter Touch’
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/07/15/covids-legacy-a-justice-system-with-a-lighter-touch/
US - The Past, Present, and Future of COVID-19 in California Prisons
https://www.ppic.org/blog/the-past-present-and-future-of-covid-19-in-california-prisons/
US (California) - Judge says lawsuit demanding better COVID-19 practices in San Diego jails may proceed
Asia
India - Don’t ask prisoners out on interim bail in COVID-19 2nd wave to surrender now, SC tells States
India - Why Prison Inmates Not Allowed VC Facility To Meet Relatives Outside India? Delhi High Court Asks GNCTD
Europe
England and Wales - Former Prisoner Explains What Life Was Like Behind Bars In Lockdown
News 15 July
Americas
US - Alarming Rise in Prison Deaths Exposes System Failure
https://btlonline.org/alarming-rise-in-prison-deaths-exposes-system-failure/
Asia
India - Maharashtra: High court says system paralysed by pandemic, undertrials languishing in jail
COVID infections among imprisoned women spark alarm in Iran
https://www.dw.com/en/covid-infections-among-imprisoned-women-spark-alarm-in-iran/a-58265514
Europe
Ireland - Lack of ‘in-person’ prison visits could affect rehabilitation for parent and child
Italy's Draghi promises prison reform after beatings of inmates
Covid-19 outbreak at Jersey's La Moye prison
https://www.itv.com/news/channel/2021-07-15/covid-19-outbreak-at-jerseys-la-moye-prison
Scotland - COVID outbreak at Perth Prison sees over 200 self-isolate
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/covid-outbreak-perth-prison-sees-24540506
News 14 July
Africa
Nigeria - Why 2,600 prisoners received presidential pardons – Aregbesola
https://www.sunnewsonline.com/why-2600-prisoners-received-presidential-pardons-aregbesola/
Uganda - 16 Inmates at Kwania Gov't Prison Test Positive for Covid-19
https://ugandaradionetwork.net/story/16-inmates-at-kwania-govt-prison-test-positive-to-covid-19
Americas
Canada - Anatomy of an outbreak: How COVID-19 overran this Ontario prison
https://www.tvo.org/article/anatomy-of-an-outbreak-how-covid-19-overran-this-ontario-prison
US (Hawaii) - Federal Judge Rules Prison System Has Failed To Protect Inmates From COVID-19
US - In-Person Visits At Iowa Prisons Resume After 16 Months
Asia
India - Miami-type multi-storeyed jail planned in Mumbai: Prison official
Malaysia - State govt asked to consider CanSino vaccine for prison inmates
Europe
Scotland - Perth Prison hall dealing with Covid-19 outbreak
Oceania
Australia - Family of Aboriginal man who died in custody say Covid restrictions prevented them visiting him
News 13 July
Americas
US - Is Anti-Vax Movement Gaining Traction Among Corrections Staff?
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/07/12/is-anti-vax-movement-gaining-traction-among-correction-staff/
US - Federal Judges Handed Down Smaller Sentences Due to Brutal NYC Prison Conditions: Analysis
Asia
India - COVID impact: Over 3,800 inmates released from Delhi prisons to decongest jails
Sri Lanka - More COVID patients from Boossa and Galle Prisons
http://www.dailynews.lk/2021/07/13/local/253829/more-covid-patients-boossa-and-galle-prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Pregnant prisoners ‘routinely’ denied access to suitable maternity care
https://www.thejusticegap.com/pregnant-prisoners-routinely-denied-access-to-suitable-maternity-care/
England and Wales - Only 54% of prisoners have had a Covid jab
https://insidetime.org/only-54-of-prisoners-have-had-a-covid-jab/
Covid-19 outbreak at Scots prison leaves families 'gravely concerned' as they claim virus is 'out of control'
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/covid-outbreak-in-scots-prison-24520556
News 10-12 July
Africa
Panic as 15 Ugandan prison inmates test positive for Coronavirus
Americas
The State of COVID-19 in U.S. Prisons
https://www.verywellhealth.com/prisons-covid-delta-variant-5191964
US - Compassionate Release and the Pandemic: A Policy Failure?
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/07/12/compassionate-release-and-the-pandemic-a-policy-failure/
US - Data shows how COVID-19 mitigation changed Iowa's prison population
US - "Everything was different." Former inmates adjust to outside life as Virginia ends COVID early release
Asia
India - Maharashtra: Prisons dept steps up drive for Covid-19 vaccination, close to 70 per cent inmates get their first jab
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/maharashtra-prison-inmates-covid-19-vaccine-7399046/
Malaysia - Covid-19: 108 of Sarawak’s new cases from Immigration detention depot and prison, says state Health director
Myanmar - Forty prisoners test positive for COVID-19 in Insein jail
https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/forty-prisoners-test-positive-covid-19-insein-jail
Sri Lanka - Early release measures: Immediate ways to address over-incarceration
Europe
England and Wales - ‘It’s psychological torture’: Immigration detainees tell of being locked up for up to 24 hours a day during pandemic
England and Wales - Obese HMP Frankland prisoner died of Covid after 65 inmates fell ill during outbreak
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/obese-hmp-frankland-prisoner-died-21008901
England and Wales - Man, 83, jailed for playing radio too loudly dies from Covid in jail
https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/man-83-jailed-playing-radio-5636719
News 9 July
Americas
Canada - Inmate visits will ‘gradually’ resume at federal institutions, prison service says
US (Hawaii) - Federal Court Case: Corrections Officials Botched COVID-19 Response In Prisons
Asia
Bangladesh - Lockdown Detainees: Crammed in vans, at risk of catching Covid
Thailand - Herbs help Covid-hit prisoners
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2145743/herbs-help-covid-hit-prisoners
Europe
Cyprus - Human centered approach at prisons paying off, director says
https://cyprus-mail.com/2021/07/09/human-centered-approach-at-prisons-paying-off-director-says/
England and Wales - Prisons go against the grain as Covid war rages on behind bars
https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/prisons-go-against-grain-covid-5627113
Ireland - Prisoners to be allowed visits from family again from July 14th
Inmates in Turkish prisons strip-searched and denied basic necessities: report
Oceania
New Zealand - Overseas criminals released back in Kiwi communities after prison as Covid-19 stalls deportations
News 8 July
Africa
Liberia: SHED With Funding From European Union Donates Essential Drugs to Four Prison Facilities
https://allafrica.com/stories/202107070651.html
Namibia: We're Not Vaccinated - Hardap Inmates
https://allafrica.com/stories/202107070605.html
Americas
US - The Real Toll From Prison Covid Cases May Be Higher Than Reported
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/07/us/inmates-incarcerated-covid-deaths.html
US (Wisconsin) - Jail as a last resort: Evidence-based decision making takes a front seat amid COVID-19 pandemic
US (Pennsylvania) - Most inmates have had their covid shots — but their guards likely haven’t
Asia
COVID-19 outbreaks in Myanmar jails sow alarm
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/covid-19-outbreaks-myanmar-jails-102105093.html
Europe
Drug used to treat heroin addiction in prison pilot scheme to go Scotland-wide
News 7 July
Americas
US - New MDOC visitation policy too restrictive, loved ones of incarcerated Mississippians say
https://mississippitoday.org/2021/07/06/new-mdoc-visitation-policy-too-restrictive-loved-ones-say/
US (California) - 33 CDCR Institutions in Phase 3 of Re-Opening – Programs and Services to Resume Shortly
https://www.davisvanguard.org/2021/07/several-cdcr-institutions-in-phase-3-of-reopening/
Asia
India - 32 prisoners at Thane temporary jail test positive for Covid-19
In Myanmar’s prisons, detainees caught between pandemic and coup
https://coconuts.co/yangon/news/in-myanmars-prisons-detainees-caught-between-pandemic-and-coup/
Myanmar Junta Suspends Trials Inside Insein Prison Due to COVID-19
Sri Lanka - Thirty inmates at Boossa test COVID positive
http://www.dailynews.lk/2021/07/07/local/253285/thirty-inmates-boossa-test-covid-positive
Vietnam - 81 Covid-19 cases detected at HCMC's Chi Hoa prison
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/81-covid-19-cases-detected-at-hcmc-s-chi-hoa-prison-4305094.html
Vietnam - Inmates riot at HCMC's Chi Hoa prison
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/inmates-riot-at-hcmc-s-chi-hoa-prison-4305686.html
Europe
Hungary - Prison Visits Possible again but Only with Immunity Certificates
https://hungarytoday.hu/prison-visit-possible-restriction-coronavirus-immunity-certificate/
Scots cons not tested for Covid-19 before jail release sparking virus spread fears
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scots-cons-not-tested-covid-24474883
News 6 July
Africa
Uganda - 2 dead, 100 inmates test positive for covid-19 in two weeks
https://www.kfm.co.ug/news/2-dead-100-inmates-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-two-weeks.html
Americas
Canada - Correctional staff complaints to province detail concerns, confusion during pandemic
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/provincial-jails-covid-19-dig2-1.6080107
US - Incarcerated at home: The rise of ankle monitors and house arrest during the pandemic
US - Philly jails are in crisis, and a tactic used during COVID-19 is the solution | Editorial
Asia
Prison inmates in India refuse parole over COVID-19 fears on outside
https://gruntstuff.com/prison-inmates-in-india-refuse-parole-over-covid-19-fears-on-outside/212505/
New prison complex in Horana to expand Sri Lanka’s prison capacity to 100,000: Minister
Europe
Turkey - Report: Prisoners have difficulties in accessing cleaning supplies
News 3-5 July
Africa
Uganda - Prisons to brief country on Covid in cells
https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/prisons-to-brief-country-on-covid-in-cells-3461212
Americas
Bermuda - Prison inmates file Covid-19 complaints with Ombudsman
Canada - Quebec COVID restrictions are loosening, but jails are still putting inmates in solitary to quarantine
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/quebec-jail-quarantine-controversy-covid-1.6088287
St Kitts & Nevis - 13 additional confirmed COVID-19 cases recorded at Her Majesty’s Prison bringing the total number to 55
https://www.sknvibes.com/news/newsdetails.cfm/115993
St Kitts & Nevis - Around 50 percent of the prison population at HMP vaccinated with the first dose, says PS Petty
https://www.sknvibes.com/news/newsdetails.cfm/115994
US - COVID-19 Recedes In Prisons, But Conditions Could Spell Future Outbreaks
https://www.npr.org/transcripts/1012907942
US - New York Prisons Offering Inmates Barbecues, Conjugal Visits to Get Them Vaccinated
US - New Mexico prison facilities loosen restrictions for the first time in over a year
US (Alabama) - Op-Ed: Fewer People Went to Prison. Crime Dropped. Let’s Build on Our Success
Asia
Cambodia - Five Takeo inmates get Covid-19, search continues for more cases
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/five-takeo-inmates-get-covid-19-search-continues-more-cases
India - Covid-19: 3,500 inmates at Arthur Road, Byculla Women's jail get first jab
Israel - Panel on prison reform recommends some sentences be served at home
https://www.timesofisrael.com/panel-on-prison-reform-recommends-some-sentences-be-served-at-home/
Malaysia - Pass ordinance to allow bail, release prisoners early, says lawyer
Malaysia - Khairy: Covid-19 vaccination for prisoners to be discussed in JKJAV meeting
Europe
England and Wales - Don’t use Covid to justify longer bang-up, warns Dame Anne Owers
https://insidetime.org/dont-use-covid-to-justify-longer-bang-up-warns-dame-anne-owers/
Scotland - Low Moss prison Covid cases ‘almost double’ as nurses ‘fear for their lives’
https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/scottish-news/7347875/low-moss-prison-covid-cases/
News 2 July
UN torture prevention body calls for vaccination programmes for people deprived of liberty
Africa
Zimbabwe shuts down highest courts following COVID-19 spike
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/africa/2021-07/01/c_1310038552.htm
Americas
US - Incarceration in the Age of COVID
https://federalnewsnetwork.com/agency-oversight/2021/07/incarceration-in-the-age-of-covid/
US (Delaware) - Prisoners will receive no sentence credit for suffering pandemic behind bars
US - Colorado court revives lawsuit demanding Polis release prisoners over COVID conditions
https://www.denverpost.com/2021/07/01/inmates-covid-lawsuit/
Asia
India - Decongestion of prisons inadequate, release 'doesn't take into account' age, health
https://www.counterview.net/2021/07/decongestion-of-prisons-inadequate.html
Philippines - BJMP: Non-essentials off-limits to WV district jails
https://www.panaynews.net/bjmp-non-essentials-off-limits-to-wv-district-jails/
Europe
Greece: Mass Vaccination of Prison Inmates Begins on Thursday
Covid unrest: Italy prison guards suspended over beatings
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-57685744
Oceania
Australia - Indigenous women strip-searched twice as often inside Canberra's jail in recent months
News 1 July
Americas
Haiti: Inhumane prison conditions demand urgent action – Bachelet
https://reliefweb.int/report/haiti/haiti-inhumane-prison-conditions-demand-urgent-action-bachelet
US - The high cost of phone calls in prisons generates $1.4 billion a year, disproportionately driving women and people of color into debt
US - Disgraced doctors, unlicensed officials: Prisons face criticism over health care
US (California) - How Not to Fight a Prison Pandemic
https://solitarywatch.org/2021/06/30/how-not-to-fight-a-prison-pandemic/
US - More Vermont prisoners opting to get vaccinated against Covid-19
https://vtdigger.org/2021/06/30/more-vermont-prisoners-opting-to-get-vaccinated-against-covid-19/
Asia
Iraq vaccinates all prisoners against COVID-19
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20210630-iraq-vaccinates-all-prisoners-against-covid-19/
Malaysia - Covid: Kepayan prison records 51 new cases: Masidi
https://www.thesundaily.my/home/covid-kepayan-prison-records-51-new-cases-masidi-DA8020577
Oceania
Australia (NSW) - ‘I’m not having it:’ Eligible prison inmates and staff rejecting AstraZeneca
Australia - Inmates to receive Pfizer vaccine in WA prisons
https://www.6pr.com.au/inmates-to-receive-pfizer-vaccine-in-wa-prisons/
News 30 June
Africa
South Africa - Prison Unions Want Inmates, Officials To Be Prioritised For Covid-19 Vaccine
Tunisia: Sousse-Coronavirus - 292 Cases of Infection Detected in Messadine Prison
https://allafrica.com/stories/202106300495.html
Americas
US - As COVID recedes in prisons, will any lessons learned stick?
US - A Half-Million People Got COVID-19 in Prison. Are Officials Ready for the Next Pandemic?
US - When Prisons Locked Down, Prisoners Were Denied Release
https://theappeal.org/prison-programming-release-delayed-pandemic-lockdown/
US (Wisconsin) - Counties with state prisons had 11% more first-wave COVID-19 cases
https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-06/uow-cws062421.php
Asia
Nepal - Inmate dies of COVID-19 in Chitwan prison
https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/inmate-dies-of-covid-19-in-chitwan-prison/?categoryId=81
Europe
England and Wales - The 'damaging effect' of Covid lockdown on young prisoners as many spend just 40 minutes a day out of cells
Italy shock video of violence against prisoners
https://www.wantedinrome.com/news/italy-shock-video-of-violence-against-prisoners.html
Scotland - Kilwinning prisoner raises HMP Kilmarnock COVID concerns
https://www.irvinetimes.com/news/19407687.kilwinning-prisoner-raises-hmp-kilmarnock-covid-concerns/
Oceania
Australia - Visits restricted at all Queensland prisons
https://www.miragenews.com/visits-restricted-at-all-queensland-prisons-587308/
News 29 June
Africa
Ghana - Grim tales from our prisons
https://www.graphic.com.gh/features/civic-realities/grim-tales-from-our-prisons.html
Americas
US - Lost Opportunity, Lost Lives
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/06/29/lost-opportunity-lost-lives
US - New Mexico prison population drops to historic lows
https://www.kob.com/new-mexico-news/new-mexico-prison-population-drops-to-historic-lows/6155709/
US - How Louisiana prisons have handled COVID-19: 9 Things to Know
https://lailluminator.com/2021/06/29/how-louisiana-prisons-have-handled-covid-19-9-things-to-know/
Asia
India - COVID-19: Public Health Experts Call for Decongesting Prisons to Safeguard Inmates
https://www.newsclick.in/COVID-19-public-health-experts-call-decongesting-prisons-safeguard-inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Prison Service plans for more video conferencing
https://www.ukauthority.com/articles/prison-service-plans-for-more-video-conferencing/
News 26 – 28 June
Africa
DRC - Covid-19: 7 cas testés positifs à la prison centrale de Makala
Ghana - Overcrowding impedes prisoner rights; facilities house 30% above capacity
South Africa - 537 elderly prisoners have received Covid-19 jabs
Tunisie – Découverte d’un foyer de covid dans la prison de Messaadine
https://www.tunisienumerique.com/tunisie-decouverte-dun-foyer-de-covid-dans-la-prison-de-messaadine/
Americas
US - Thousands of Prisoners Were Sent Home Because of Covid. They Don’t Want to Go Back.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/27/us/politics/biden-prison-coronavirus.html
US (Illinois) - 1,000 inmates still stuck in county jails — creating dangerous conditions — because state prisons won’t take them, sheriffs say
Asia
Cambodia - 686 inmates vaccinated against Covid-19 in Koh Kong prison
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50881953/686-inmates-vaccinated-against-covid-19-in-koh-kong-prison/
Malaysia - Covid cases in Emco areas including Kepayan Prison cause spike, 256 in Sabah today: Masidi
Pakistan - Inmates remain vulnerable to Covid
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2307689/inmates-remain-vulnerable-to-covid
Philippines - JCI Angeles launches online visits for Pampanga jail detainees
Europe
Italy - 52 warders arrested over prison lockdown violence
Oceania
COVID-19 Fiji: Prison officers among new cases of infections
https://www.fijitimes.com/covid-19-fiji-prison-officers-among-new-cases-of-infections/
News 25 June
Africa
Overcrowding major challenge of Ghana Prison Service - Prisons Boss laments
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1090217/overcrowding-major-challenge-of-ghana-prison-servi.html
Uganda - Covid-19 cases high in prison, police
https://www.independent.co.ug/covid-19-cases-high-in-prison-police/
Americas
Canada - COVID outbreak sees North Bay jail closed and 61 inmates moved out
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/north-bay-jail-closed-covid-19-outbreak-1.6078255
US - Jury trials are starting again. But the pandemic put some behind bars past their sentences.
US - More Than Half Of Hawaii’s Inmates Have Been Vaccinated Against COVID-19
Asia
Thailand races to roll out coronavirus jabs to prisoners
https://www.todayonline.com/world/thailand-races-roll-out-coronavirus-jabs-prisoners
Oceania
Australia - Report finds human rights denied at Tasmania's Risdon Prison
News 24 June
Africa
Kenya - Only 4 inmates at Kisii Remand Prison tested positive for Covid, officials clarify
South Africa - Prison visits suspended nationwide as Covid-19 numbers soar
Zimbabwe - Panic As Covid-19 Ravage Prisons
https://www.zimeye.net/2021/06/24/panic-as-covid-19-ravage-prisons/
Americas
US (Pennsylvania) - Philly agrees to $125,000 settlement for failure to give prisoners required out-of-cell time during COVID-19 pandemic
Venezuela: Maduro Promises a ‘Revolution’ of Justice and Prison System
https://venezuelanalysis.com/news/15239
Asia
India - Over 13,000 prison inmates vaccinated against COVID-19 in Maha: Govt tells HC
Malaysia - Prison life amid the pandemic - 'we are treated like animals'
https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/580207
Europe
England and Wales - Inmates at HMP Lewes locked in cells for 23 hours report says
https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/19394071.inmates-hmp-lewes-locked-cells-23-hours-report-says/
France - Prisons : "l'année 2020 a été bouleversée par le covid"
https://lcp.fr/actualites/prisons-l-annee-2020-a-ete-bouleversee-par-le-covid-70339
Scotland - Rise in prison deaths raises questions about access to health care
https://theferret.scot/prison-death-rise-prompts-questions-over-healthcare/
News 23 June
Africa
Zimbabwe - Covid-19 outbreak at prison
https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-205365.html
Americas
US (Hawaii) - ‘Inhumane’ conditions at HCCC trigger lawsuit as outbreak continues
Asia
Protecting detainees during COVID-19: Isolation centres inaugurated in Bangladesh’s prisons
Pakistan - Around 4,350 Prisoners Of 18,440 Inmates Vaccinated Against COVID-19 In Sindh Jails
https://www.urdupoint.com/en/pakistan/around-4350-prisoners-of-18440-inmates-vacc-1284018.html
Philippines - Group assails DOH, DOJ ‘inaction’ on prisoners’ COVID vaccination
https://mb.com.ph/2021/06/23/group-assails-doh-doj-inaction-on-prisoners-covid-vaccination/
Europe
England and Wales - 600 staff at 49 prisons out on strike tomorrow in Covid safety dispute
England and Wales - Inmates protested in jail shower area over ‘restricted regime’ in lockdown
England and Wales - Custody time limit extension to end this month
https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/news/custody-time-limit-extension-to-end-this-month/5108940.article
Scotland - Prisoners at Low Moss near Bishopbriggs self-isolating after coronavirus outbreak
News 22 June
Africa
South Africa - Prison visits suspended with move to level 3
https://www.heraldlive.co.za/news/2021-06-22-prison-visits-suspended-with-move-to-level-3/
Americas
US - Some Incarcerated Meatpacking Workers Spent ‘100 percent’ of Their Time in High-Risk Settings During Pandemic
Asia
India - Vaccination drive in Maharashtra prisons going slow
Malaysia - Covid-19: Admission of new inmates triggered Sungai Udang prison cluster
News 19 – 21 June
Africa
Liberia - Jeety commits anti-Covid-19 supplies for inmates
https://thenewdawnliberia.com/jeety-commits-anti-covid-19-supplies-for-inmates/
South Africa - ‘Vaccinate inmates to avoid crisis’
https://mg.co.za/news/2021-06-20-vaccinate-inmates-to-avoid-crisis/
Americas
Jamaica - COVID-19 blow hurts inmates' rehab programme
https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/covid-19-blow-hurts-inmates-_224072?profile=1373
St Kitts & Nevis - 26 Additional Confirmed Covid-19 Cases Reported At Her Majesty’s Prison Bringing Total Number To 37
US - ‘Disorder and Chaos’ in N.Y.C. Jails as Pandemic Recedes
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/19/nyregion/rikers-island-chaos-suicides.html
US (Kentucky) - In-Person Prison Visits Return, But Strict Rules Leave Children Out
https://kycir.org/2021/06/21/in-person-prison-visits-return-but-strict-rules-leave-children-out/
Asia
India - Only 8% of Tihar’s inmates vaccinated
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/only-8-of-tihars-inmates-vaccinated/article34873158.ece
Philippines - Inmates struggle to save relationships, mental health amid ban on visits
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/inmates-mental-health-amid-ban-visits-covid-19
Philippines - Leyte Prison launches ‘e-dalaw’ for inmates
https://mb.com.ph/2021/06/21/leyte-prison-launches-e-dalaw-for-inmates/
Europe
England and Wales - Over 8,000 'prisoners' still waiting for their trial
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1452222/coronavirus-news-thousands-prisoners-await-trial
England and Wales - HMP Bedford social visits set to resume for ‘most vulnerable prisoners’
Ireland - Control and restraint teams called in as inmates at Midlands Prison protest over Covid restrictions
News 18 June
Americas
St Kitts & Nevis - HMP Management Implements Additional Measures to Safeguard Health of Personnel and Residents
https://www.sknvibes.com/news/newsdetails.cfm/115818
US - Dozens of Texans Died of COVID-19 in Prison Despite Being Granted Parole, Report Finds
US (Pennsylvania) - ‘More harm than good’: Most Pa. prisoners are vaxxed, but isolating COVID rules remain
US (Hawaii) - Bill Reintroduced to Improve Compassionate Release Following COVID-19 Outbreaks in Prisons
Asia
Philippines - Elderly political prisoner's death highlights call to free vulnerable PDLs
Europe
Belgium - Ligne Info'Prison : les témoignages recueillis reflètent la profonde détresse des détenus
Turkey - HDP demands parliamentary debate on situation of sick prisoners
https://stockholmcf.org/hdp-demands-parliamentary-debate-on-situation-of-sick-prisoners/
News 17 June
Americas
US - How Covid-19 Is Still Battering the Criminal Legal System
US (Virginia) - COVID-19 early release program for inmates to end July 1
US - Kentucky Prisons to Reopen for Family Visits June 20 After Closing Due to Coronavirus
US (Hawaii) - More HCCC inmates test positive
https://eminetra.com/more-hccc-inmates-test-positive-honolulu-hawaii/597996/
Asia
India - Vaccination Of Prisoners- "Vaccines Not Available, Inoculation Programme Progressing Slowly": Govt. Tells Uttarakhand High Court
Europe
Ireland - Failure to restart family visits and religious services in prisons condemned in Dáil
Ireland - Inmates being vaccinated on a prison-by-prison basis
News 16 June
Africa
Nigeria - Decongestion: FCT Command Controller calls for virtual sitting, establishment of Courts in correctional facilities
Americas
Canada - Some prisoners not offered COVID-19 shots until months after general public, CBC analysis finds
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/covid-vaccinations-in-jails-1.6066293
Haiti - Officials to renew health emergency status, discuss prison care
https://haitiantimes.com/2021/06/15/officials-renew-health-emergency-status-discuss-prison-care/
US - Why Lockdowns Can’t Protect People in Prison From Deadly Viruses
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/06/15/how-mass-incarceration-fuels-the-spread-of-disease/
US - New report finds parole-approved prisoners waited months for release amid pandemic
Asia
Cambodia - Gov’t prioritises prisoners for Covid-19 vaccinations
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50875006/govt-prioritises-prisoners-for-covid-19-vaccinations/
India - Vax in drive across state prisons progressing slow and steady
India - Delhi prisons see only single COVID-19 case this month
India - Goa: Soon, Colvale prison inmates can meet kin, friends virtually
Europe
Ireland - Number of inmates on temporary release from Cork prison rising steadily in recent weeks
https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40314185.html
News 15 June
Africa
Botswana - Prisons to start video conferencing facility for inmates
https://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?aid=90241&dir=2021/june/14
Uganda - Prison services reinstate ban on visits to jail centres
https://www.independent.co.ug/prison-services-reinstate-ban-on-visits-to-jail-centres/
Americas
St Kitts & Nevis - Officials working to combat COVID at HMP
https://www.sknvibes.com/news/newsdetails.cfm/115786
US - The origins of Covid-19’s racial disparities lie in America’s prisons
https://qz.com/2019954/overcrowded-prisons-help-explain-us-covid-19-racial-inequality/
US - Covid-19 and the Struggle for Health Behind Bars
https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/covid-19-and-struggle-health-behind-bars
US (Tennessee) Prisons rebound from COVID-19 pandemic with the return of volunteers
US (Connecticut) - Prison guards seeking hazard pay for work during pandemic
Asia
Philippines - Separated by Covid: Inmates struggle to save relationships, mental health amid ban on visits
Philippines - Group urges release of ‘at-risk PDLs’ after death of 75-year-old, sick political prisoner
News 12-14 June
Africa
Kenya - Inmate visitations to resume in new plan, officials say
https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2021-06-13-inmate-visitations-to-resume-in-new-plan-officials-say/
Americas
Panama - Prison system director dies of covid-19
https://menafn.com/1102265671/Prison-system-director-dies-of-covid-19&source=138
St Kitts & Nevis - Inmate tests positive for COVID-19
https://www.sknvibes.com/news/newsdetails.cfm/115755
Trinidad & Tobago - Inmates, prison officers to get vaccinated
US - Decrease in jail population should remain after pandemic, criminal justice reformers say
https://news.yahoo.com/decrease-jail-population-remain-pandemic-142907313.html
US - Coronavirus lockdowns in prisons test limits of Colorado’s rules on solitary confinement
US (Arizona) - Department of Corrections vaccinates over 26,000 inmates
Asia
Cambodia - Justice ministry reviews conditions for early prisoner release
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/justice-ministry-reviews-conditions-early-prisoner-release
‘We may die inside’: How India’s prisons became sitting ducks for Covid-19
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/covid-india-jails-overcrowding-coronavirus-b1857102.html
India - Maharashtra: 7,600 inmates get their first jab, active cases on a decline in state prisons
Maldives amps up anti-epidemic measures in prisons
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/2021-06/11/c_1310003384.htm
Pakistan - Imprisoned in a pandemic
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/849264-imprisoned-in-a-pandemic
Sri Lanka - Virtual meetings for prisoners with their families with the help of ICRC
https://island.lk/virtual-meetings-for-prisoners-with-their-families-with-the-help-of-icrc/
Europe
Greece - Fresh outbreak of Covid-19 at Patra Prison
https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1162808/fresh-outbreak-of-covid-19-at-patra-prison/
Ireland - Many more could have been released in 2020 to combat Covid - Inspector of Prisons
Ireland - Covid halts DNA sampling in prisons for crime database with no date set for resumption
News 11 June
Africa
Kenya - Prison Staff, Inmates, To Be Vaccinated Against Covid-19
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/prison-staff-inmates-to-be-vaccinate-against-covid-19/
Americas
‘They let people die’: US prisons bureau denied tens of thousands compassionate release during Covid
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/jun/11/us-prisons-bureau-compassionate-release-covid
US - Research sheds new light on COVID-19 and mass imprisonment
https://floridanewstimes.com/research-sheds-new-light-on-covid-19-and-mass-imprisonment/282693/
US (California) - With COVID-19 under control in OC jails, judge dismisses lawsuit aimed at cutting inmate population
US - Virus outbreaks in Hawaii jails prompt inmate lawsuit
US (Iowa) - Pandemic speeds up Linn County’s permanent ban on in-person jail visits
Asia
Cambodia - GDP receives nearly 7,000 vaccine doses to curb prison infections
Elderly Activist Inmates Increasingly Positive For COVID-19 in Cambodia’s Penal System
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/cambodia/inmates-06102021211030.html
India - Substantial decrease in Covid cases in prisons: Jail authorities to Bombay HC
Justice minister kicks off vaccination in Covid-ravaged Thai prison system
Thailand - Korat prisons declared to be Covid free
https://thethaiger.com/news/national/korat-prisons-declared-to-be-covid-free
Europe
Cyprus - Coronavirus: Lawyers protest over decision to resume operations at Supreme Court
England and Wales - Prison sees dramatic fall in violent incidents
https://www.eadt.co.uk/news/crime/highpoint-prison-stradishall-suffolk-reduced-violence-8043108
Ireland - Infamous killers among those offered a Covid-19 jab as 'hundreds' of prisoners vaccinated this week
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/crime/infamous-killers-among-those-offered-24293494
Oceania
New Zealand - Vaccine rollout scale down: Prisoners and Defence Force to wait longer, no more walk-ins
News 10 June
Americas
Canada - Human rights commission urges province’s justice sector to keep prison population low amid COVID-19
US - Garland: 52% of federal inmates in America are now vaccinated for COVID-19
US - In-person visits to Indiana prisons to resume in phases starting this week
US (California) - CA’s Jail & Prison Populations Went Down During COVID, But Now The Jail Numbers Have Crept Back Up
US - Gov. Greg Abbott has lifted almost all Texas pandemic restrictions. But not the one limiting jail releases.
https://www.texastribune.org/2021/06/10/texas-bail-pandemic-greg-abbott/
US - In-Person Visits Resume Only for Vaccinated Missouri Prisoners
US (New York) - In-Person Visits Resume This Month At NYC Jails
https://news.yahoo.com/person-visits-resume-month-nyc-214600672.html
Asia
Bahraini political inmate dies of coronavirus in Jau Prison
Cambodia - Sar Kheng shores up prison support amid Covid spread
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/sar-kheng-shores-prison-support-amid-covid-spread
News 9 June
Africa
Uganda suspends prison visits over surge of COVID-19 cases
https://africa.cgtn.com/2021/06/09/uganda-suspends-prison-visits-over-surge-of-covid-19-cases/
Americas
US (Vermont) - Vt. Prisons Used Lockdowns To Slow Coronavirus, But Prisoners' Mental Health Suffered
US - Wisconsin Prisons to Resume in-Person Visits
https://www.fox21online.com/2021/06/08/wisconsin-prisons-to-resume-in-person-visits/
Asia
India - Tackling pandemic woes, Rajasthan's prison authorities conduct e-meets for inmates & their kin
News 8 June
Africa
Liberia - UNDP, Bureau of Corrections collaborate to decongest prisons
https://thenewdawnliberia.com/undp-bureau-of-corrections-collaborate-to-decongest-prisons/
South Africa - Popcru urges police and prison workers to be given priority for Covid jabs
Americas
US - Incarceration Declined Only Slightly From Fall 2020 to Spring 2021 After an Unprecedented Drop in Incarceration in 2020
US - Jail Populations Creep Back Up After COVID-19
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/06/07/jail-populations-creep-back-up-after-covid-19
US (Hawaii) - Oversight Commissioner Concerned With Overcrowding as COVID-19 Cases at Hilo Jail Rise to 154
Asia
India - 2,000 jail inmates get Covid jab in Bhopal
India - Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh arranges 19,132 e-meets for prisoners with kin during lockdown
Malaysia - Reduce overcrowding in prisons, detention centres, PH tells govt
Nearly 30,000 Covid-19 infections at Thai prisons in recent wave
https://thethaiger.com/news/national/nearly-30000-covid-19-infections-at-thai-prisons-in-recent-wave
News 4-7 June
Americas
Bermuda - Tensions rise at prison over Covid restrictions, Minister
Canada - Lack of trust, information driving low vaccination rate at Ottawa jail, advocate says
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-carleton-detention-centre-covid-outbreak-1.6051957
US - Most Oklahoma prisons operating normally following lockdown
https://www.westport-news.com/news/article/Most-Oklahoma-prisons-operating-normally-16227229.php
US - COVID-19 outbreak at Big Island jail grows among inmates and staff – Honolulu, Hawaii
US (Washington) - Some Prisons Reinstate Patdown Searches Although Guards Are Refusing Vaccination
Asia
Cambodia - Inmates to get AstraZeneca jabs
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/inmates-get-astrazeneca-jabs
India - States just transferring prisoners instead of efforts to decongest jails
Indonesia - Emerging prison virus clusters spur calls for change
Timely vaccinations for prison inmates in Japan uncertain
Singapore - Fewer offenders put on probation last year amid Covid-19
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/fewer-offenders-put-on-probation-last-year-amid-covid-19
Thailand - Covid-19 vaccinations begin at Pattaya prison
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/covid-19-vaccinations-begin-at-pattaya-prison-358608
Europe
England and Wales - Covid has offered a 'once in a lifetime' chance to improve the prisons says union official
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/covid-offered-once-lifetime-chance-20739477
Just 2% of prisoners in Ireland have been vaccinated against Covid-19
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/just-2-prisoners-ireland-been-24245993
News 3 June
Americas
US - Mass Incarceration Has Worsened the COVID-19 Pandemic for Everyone
Asia
India - Draw lessons from Covid to improve jail healthcare
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/comment/draw-lessons-from-covid-to-improve-jail-healthcare-262392
Malaysia - Parliamentary prison reform group: Locking up MCO offenders risks triggering another Covid-19 wave
How to reduce Covid-19 in Malaysian prisons
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50867314/how-to-reduce-covid-19-in-malaysian-prisons/
Thailand - 122 prisons free of Covid infections
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2125779/122-prisons-free-of-covid-infections
Europe
England and Wales - Covid: Prison officers take dogs to work to cut prisoners' stress
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-57317334
England and Wales - Prison educators plan further strikes in health and safety dispute
https://feweek.co.uk/2021/06/02/prison-educators-plan-further-strikes-in-health-and-safety-dispute/
England and Wales - Covid: Young offenders institution's response praised
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-57323337
News 2 June
Africa
Tunisia - Sept morts dans les prisons depuis le début de la pandémie
Asia
Cambodia - Kampong Speu inmates get Covid, one dies
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/kampong-speu-inmates-get-covid-one-dies
India - Over 2,000 inmates of Central Prison receive first dose of COVID-19 vaccine
India - In Maharashtra, Prison Quarantine Centres Are More Harrowing than Main Jail Barracks
https://thewire.in/rights/covid19-maharashtra-prison-decongest-quarantine
Thailand's daily COVID-19 cases drop on decline in prison infections
Europe
England and Wales - Prison inspectors find regime at HMP North Sea Camp near Boston "overly restrictive" during pandemic
https://www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk/news/local-news/prison-inspectors-find-regime-hmp-5481126
England and Wales - Pentonville says it will clear up 'mice and cockroach infestation' after damning report
https://www.mylondon.news/news/north-london-news/pentonville-says-clear-up-mice-20692497
2 wards under quarantine in Denizli Prison as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Turkish penal institutions
Oceania
Australia - Melbourne Assessment Prison plunged into lockdown amid Covid fears
News 22 May – 1 June
Africa
Morocco moves to vaccinate prison inmates 45 and up
South Africa - Covid-19: Why we need to vaccinate prisoners now
https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2021-05-25-covid-19-why-we-need-to-vaccinate-prisoners-now/
South Africa - Prisoners livid over delayed parole due to being ignored by dept
Americas
Canada - Nearly 75% of federal prisoners have been vaccinated against COVID-19
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/federal-prisoners-vaccinated-75-per-cent-1.6044896
‘Dehumanizing spaces’: How COVID-19 is affecting inmates in Canada
https://charlatan.ca/2021/05/dehumanizing-spaces-how-covid-19-is-affecting-inmates-in-canada/
Canada - Ottawa jail in lockdown as 19 inmates, one staffer test positive; no court appearance for Budlakoti
Trinidad & Tobago - Riot over 'COVID case' at Women’s Prison
https://guardian.co.tt/news/riot-over-covid-case-at-womens-prison-6.2.1332639.2b03309dda
US - Federal prisons forced to use cooks, nurses to guard inmates due to staff shortages
Vaccinations are lagging at many U.S. prisons, where major virus outbreaks have been common.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/22/us/covid-prison-vaccine.html
US - Jails shrunk during the pandemic — here's how to keep them small
US - “Essential” and exploitable: Prison factories stayed open during the pandemic. People got sick.
https://thecounter.org/essential-and-exploitable-prison-factories-stayed-open-during-pandemic/
US - Data: Half of Montana inmates reject COVID-19 vaccine
US - Arizona Department of Corrections administers 43,000+ COVID-19 vaccines to inmates
Asia
Bangladesh - Three isolation centres opened at prisons
https://www.thedailystar.net/city/news/three-isolation-centres-opened-prisons-2097717
Cambodia - Official sounds alarm as Covid spreads in prisons
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/official-sounds-alarm-covid-spreads-prisons
The pandemic has put the spotlight on inhumane conditions in Indian prisons
India - 542 prisoners released from jails in Maharashtra after HPC order; bail pleas of 12,751 pending
India - COVID-19 pandemic: Over 10,000 prisoners released to decongest UP jails
India - Karnataka vaccinates all jail inmates above 45 years
Malaysia - Covid: Prisons Dept postpones Kaamatan, Gawai visitations
https://www.thesundaily.my/local/covid-prisons-dept-postpones-kaamatan-gawai-visitations-YH7911111
Maldives - Huge cluster of COVID-19 infections at Asseyri Jail
Maldives - High risk prisoners transferred to home arrest
Philippines - Pandemic locks PDLs' families out of prisons
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/05/28/2101441/pandemic-locks-pdls-families-out-prisons
Thailand - 1,228 more inmates infected at 14 prisons
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2122647/1-228-more-inmates-infected-at-14-prisons
COVID-19 surge in Thai prisons is a warning to other countries in Asia
Europe
England and Wales - Severe restrictions on inmates' movements now lifted at most prisons
England and Wales - Prison governors' chief says lockdown freedoms need to be extended to inmates
England and Wales - Fewer criminals jailed due to Covid-19 - and the impact pandemic has had on prisons
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/fewer-criminals-jailed-due-covid-20701578
England and Wales - East Sutton Park Prison praised for rehabilitation work throughout Covid pandemic
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/maidstone/news/prisoners-still-able-to-leave-during-pandemic-248209/
Isle of Man - Low take-up of Covid-19 vaccine in prison says minister
Covid: Call for less remand prisoners in Scotland after spike during pandemic
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/19325430.call-less-remand-prisoners-spike/
50 have died of COVID-19 in Turkey’s jails since start of pandemic: prison authority
Oceania
Australia - Armed, angry and defiant: Reason why group of prisoners left trail of mayhem at Qld jail
News 21 May
Africa
Egypt - 645 prisoners released on occasion of Eid El Fitr celebrations
Americas
US (Connecticut) - Senate OKs free phone calls from prisons
https://ctmirror.org/2021/05/20/senate-oks-free-phone-calls-from-prisons/
Asia
Cambodia - Prey Sar tallies 18 Covid cases
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/prey-sar-tallies-18-covid-cases
India - Bombay HC seeks answers on provision of COVID-19 vaccine to prison inmates
India - 500 prisoners to be released to de-congest jail
Singapore - More inmates and staff at Changi Prison Complex to be tested for Covid-19 as a precaution
Thailand - Some inmates to be released on parole following Covid-19 outbreaks at prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Report slams 'unacceptable' living conditions at Ford Prison during Covid-19
England and Wales - Number of offenders escaping prosecution rises 18pc during pandemic
News 20 May
Africa
Gabon : Reprise des visites aux détenus sur présentation d’un test Covid
https://www.gabonreview.com/gabon-reprise-des-visites-aux-detenus-sur-presentation-dun-test-covid/
Americas
US - About Half of Incarcerated Remain Unvaccinated: Study
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/05/19/about-half-of-incarcerated-remain-unvaccinated-study/
US (Pennsylvania) - Pa. state prisons resume in-person visitation during COVID-19 pandemic
Asia
Cambodia - UN offers Covid assistance at Preah Sihanouk prison
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/un-offers-covid-assistance-preah-sihanouk-prison
India - 233 inmates in 16 Assam jails are Covid positive — IG (Prisons)
https://easternmirrornagaland.com/233-inmates-in-16-assam-jails-are-covid-positive-ig-prisons/
Singapore - 3 more inmates who worked at same kitchen at Changi Prison Complex test positive for Covid-19
Sri Lanka - AG issues fresh guidelines to reduce prison overcrowding
http://www.adaderana.lk/news/73998/ag-issues-fresh-guidelines-to-reduce-prison-overcrowding-
Over 12,000 Covid cases detected in Thai prisons
https://www.laprensalatina.com/over-12000-covid-cases-detected-in-thai-prisons/
Europe
England and Wales - 'There's nowhere to move': Life behind prison bars during the coronavirus pandemic
England and Wales - ‘Portable’ cells introduced in jails in response to COVID-19 to be ‘doubled up’ to deal with overcrowding
News 19 May
Africa
South Africa - Prison vaccine roll out begins amid Covid-19 safety concerns
Americas
US - Elderly, locked up, and at risk — the life and death of the incarcerated during Covid
https://www.rollingstone.com/covids-most-vulnerable-population-elderly-prisoners/
US - Half of Hawaii’s jail and prison guard recruits test positive for COVID
Asia
India - 52 Inmates At Assam Prison Test Positive For Covid, Isolated On Premises
Philippines - Kin of activist who died in jail of COVID-19 sues cops, officials
https://www.rappler.com/nation/family-activist-died-jail-joseph-canlas-sues-negligence
Sri Lanka - COVID clusters developing in prisons - MP
http://www.dailynews.lk/2021/05/19/local/249667/covid-clusters-developing-prisons-mp
Thailand - Prison infections keep rising
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2117791/prison-infections-keep-rising
Europe
Belgium - Coronavirus - Près de 50% du personnel pénitentiaire vacciné, tout comme 1.306 détenus
Georgia to start Covid-19 vaccination in prisons today
https://agenda.ge/en/news/2021/1324
Scotland - Covid-19 outbreak hits inmates at Edinburgh's Saughton Prison
News 18 May
Americas
US - News Inside: A COVID Lifesaver for America’s Incarcerated
https://www.voanews.com/press-freedom/news-inside-covid-lifesaver-americas-incarcerated
Asia
India - Panel decides to release jail inmates on parole who were freed last year
India - Expedite vaccination of Jail Inmates, staff as per Govt guidelines in prisons of J&K: Justice Magrey
Thailand Considers Releasing 50,000 Inmates As Covid Hits Prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Locked up in lockdown: the devastating effect of Covid on the prison population
Another inmate dies of COVID-19 as cases continue to surge in Turkey’s overcrowded prisons
News 15 – 17 May
Americas
Protecting prisoners from HIV and COVID-19 in Mexico
US - Two Out of Three California Prison Inmates Said Yes to COVID Vaccine
US (Arizona) - Department of Corrections administers over 44,000 vaccines
Asia
Bangladesh - Prisoners given additional three minutes to talk on phone
Cambodia - Preah Sihanouk inmates transferred to Kampot amid Covid scare
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/preah-sihanouk-inmates-transferred-kampot-amid-covid-scare
India - Decongesting prisons in pandemic
https://telanganatoday.com/decongesting-prisons-in-pandemic
India - Delhi: 900 inmates on 3-month parole to decongest Tihar Jail
Singapore - About 5,000 inmates, staff to be tested for COVID-19 after cook at Changi Prison tests positive
Sri Lanka - HRCSL meets Prisons Chief to discuss treatment of detainees during pandemic
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_21A/May16_1621189193CH.php
Sri Lanka - Protest commenced by Bogambara Prison inmates demanding PCR tests
Sri Lanka - Phone number introduced to get information on COVID infected prison inmates
Sri Lanka - Locked-Up During Pandemic: Video Calls for prisoners to connect with relatives
Thailand: Record number of Covid cases as prison clusters grow
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-57139690
Inmates in Thai prisons to get vaccinated against Covid-19 next month
Europe
Belgium - Coronavirus: une partie de la prison de Bruges placée en quarantaine
England and Wales - Torture victims kept in solitary by Home Office for up to a year
France - Prison de Perpignan : 16 personnels positifs au Covid, aucun détenu contaminé, des mesures assouplies
News 14 May
Africa
South Africa: Over 100 Offenders On Special Parole Return to Prison
https://allafrica.com/stories/202105130581.html
Americas
Bowden Institution inmate death is the 6th linked to COVID-19 across Canada
https://globalnews.ca/news/7859632/bowden-institution-inmate-death-covid-19/
US - COVID-19 and Vaccine Mistrust Behind Bars
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/05/14/covid-19-and-vaccine-mistrust-behind-bars
Asia
Hong Kong - Stanley Prison removes morning slots for visits to convicts
https://hk.appledaily.com/news/20210514/URCHBAJ2ABEFJKFEO6GSLZ2YWM/
Thailand steps up efforts to contain current outbreak in prisons
Europe
Ireland - Gardaí advised to stay away from Mountjoy Prison due to active Covid-19 outbreak
Oceania
Australia - COVID-19 vaccinations being rolled out in Queensland prisons, government confirms
News 13 May
Scoping review of mental health in prisons through the COVID-19 pandemic
https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/11/5/e046547
Africa
South Africa - COVID-19 parolees reoffend
https://www.enca.com/news/126-covid-19-parolees-reoffend
Americas
Canada - Ontario Human Rights Commission warns of prison overcrowding amid third wave of pandemic
Canada - Trials postponed as Alberta courts take precautions in face of pandemic third wave
US (Connecticut) - Senate votes to expand eligibility for compassionate parole from prison
Asia
India - Token Temporary Measures to Decongest Prisons Can't Save Inmates from COVID-19
India - Fill up vacant posts of medical officers in Maharashtra prisons, vaccinate inmates: HC to State
Philippines - Cruel Cages: How the Most Overcrowded Prison in the World Ignored a Pandemic
Thailand: Covid-19 Outbreaks in Prisons
https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/05/13/thailand-covid-19-outbreaks-prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Pandemic and court backlog sees Erlestoke population drop
England and Wales - Cramped cells, poor healthcare and 'weekly showers' for prisoners in isolation at HMP High Down
https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/cramped-cells-poor-healthcare-weekly-20580699
News 12 May
Almost 4,000 prisoners have died as a result of COVID-19 worldwide
https://www.thejusticegap.com/almost-4000-prisoners-have-died-as-a-result-of-covid-19-worldwide/
Americas
US - Most prison staff refuse COVID vaccine — should California let them?
https://calmatters.org/health/coronavirus/2021/05/prison-workers-refuse-covid-vaccine-california/
US - Visitors, Volunteers Return to Oklahoma Prisons as Cases Drop, Vaccine Access Widens
Asia
Cambodia - GDP arms Phnom Penh inmates with Covid jabs, Preah Sihanouk next
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/gdp-arms-phnom-penh-inmates-covid-jabs-preah-sihanouk-next
India - Plan to decongest jails being worked out
Malaysia - MCO 3.0: Special family visit for inmates during Aidilfitri cancelled, says Prisons Dept
2 political prisoners die in overcrowded Philippine prisons in 3 days
Thailand’s prisons have a COVID problem it doesn’t want to talk about
Thailand - Thousands of inmates at two prisons have Covid-19
Europe
England and Wales - Inmates serving life sentences at Yorkshire prison die after catching Covid-19
France - Covid : 41 détenus positifs, cluster à la prison de Salon de Provence
France - À l’heure du déconfinement, le Covid frappe toujours fort dans les prisons
News 11 May
Africa
Burundi is releasing thousands from jail, but many political prisoners remain behind bars
Morocco - Covid-19 : La DGAPR a pris une série de mesures pour prémunir les prisons
Americas
It’s been four years since the Senate began a study of conditions in Canada’s prisons. Where’s the final report?
US - Despite dangers of COVID-19 in jails and prisons, many Hawaii inmates not getting vaccine
Asia
India - Cases rise but over 87% inmates in Delhi’s prisons can’t get Covid shot. Age is the culprit
India - Around 400 Prisoners Set To Be Released As Per Directions Of High Powered Committee Of Chandigarh UT
Europe
England and Wales - Two-day strike at 49 prisons begins tomorrow by UCU members over Covid health and safety concerns
https://www.fenews.co.uk/press-releases/68181-two-day-strike-at-49-prisons-begins-tomorrow
England and Wales - Justice Committee to investigate prisoners’ mental health
https://insidetime.org/justice-committee-to-investigate-prisoners-mental-health/
Ireland - Mountjoy hit by largest prison coronavirus outbreak to date
News 8 – 10 May
Africa
Ghana - No COVID-19 infections recorded among prison inmates - Bawumia
Ghana - COVID-19 vaccination: 3,297 Prison officers, inmates vaccinated
Americas
Canada - 2 staff and 1 prisoner at Edmonton prison test positive for COVID-19
Over 2,700 incarcerated people in US dead due to Covid
US - 'Afraid of dying in here': How inmates fought for COVID vaccinations, protections after jails and prisons failed to protect them
https://news.yahoo.com/afraid-dying-inmates-fought-covid-090041733.html
US - Judge says ‘morons’ run New York’s federal jails, denounces ‘inhuman’ conditions
US - Vaccination Rate Among Arkansas Prison Staff Worries Experts
US - Weeks without a shower: Neglect defines Covid-19 containment in California jails
https://theintercept.com/2021/05/09/covid-california-jails-neglect/
US (Maryland) - COVID outbreak hits Baltimore jail even as state ramps up inmate vaccinations; advocates turn to court seeking information
Asia
Cambodia - Preah Sihanouk prison Covid-19 cases may be from asymptomatic detainees
India - COVID-19 surge | Supreme Court orders immediate de-congestion of prisons
India - 450 jail inmates test Covid positive in Haryana
India - Cases rising in Tihar jail, DCPCR seeks information on wellbeing of children
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/tihar-jail-coronavirus-outbreak-children-7306926/
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners at HMP Stocken in Stretton take part in the Hope Project
https://www.stamfordmercury.co.uk/news/prisoners-use-paintings-to-improve-mental-health-9198202/
France - Perpignan/ Nouveau cluster à la prison : «La situation est pire que lors de la première vague»
News 7 May
Americas
Canada - Two COVID-19 cases confirmed in Nova Scotia jails as ‘clunky’ justice system inhibits mass release
Jamaica - 10% of prisoners refuse COVID jab so far
https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/lead-stories/20210507/10-prisoners-refuse-covid-jab-so-far
US - Granted Parole or Awaiting Trial, Inmates Died of Covid-19 Behind Bars
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/06/us/coronavirus-inmates-parole.html
US - Vaccinations climb in Nevada prisons as visitation reopens
https://carsonnow.org/story/05/06/2021/vaccinations-climb-nevada-prisons-visitation-reopens
US - Michigan's infection rate in prisons is far above national average as inmates fear the worst
Asia
Cambodia - Over 10,000 detainees to get Covid-19 jabs
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/over-10000-detainees-get-covid-19-jabs
India - High power committee to meet on Friday over rising Covid-19 cases in Maharashtra’s prisons
Europe
Rise in number of inmates at Aylesbury prison during pandemic
Oceania
Australia (Tasmania) - Overcrowding, COVID restrictions to blame for unrest at Hobart's Risdon Prison, critics say
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-07/risdon-prison-unrest-not-surprising-critics-say/100121646
News 6 May
Africa
Malawi - Coronavirus: 12 prisoners test positive, two new cases imported from India
Asia
India - ‘Decongesting Prisons Is About Public Health, Not Crime’
https://www.thequint.com/news/law/decongesting-prisons-is-about-public-health-not-crime#read-more
India - Delhi: 249 inmates in isolation or hospitals after testing positive for coronavirus
India - Telangana vaccinates majority of its prisoners aged above 45
https://www.siasat.com/telangana-vaccinates-majority-of-its-prisoners-aged-above-45-2133568/
Iran - Inmates left unattended amid spread of Coronavirus in Behbahan prison
Malaysia - Aidilfitri: Prison visits allowed except in MCO, EMCO areas
https://www.theedgemarkets.com/article/aidilfitri-prison-visits-allowed-except-mco-emco-areas
Malaysia - Stricter SOP helps curb spread of Covid-19 in Penang’s prisons, says its dept director
Nepal - Siraha prison to quarantine new inmates for 15 days
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/siraha-prison-to-quarantine-new-inmates-for-15-days
Europe
Anti-torture committee warns against impact of austerity measures on prison conditions
England and Wales - Fewer prisoners but more on remand as Covid hits court system
https://www.countypress.co.uk/news/19281400.fewer-prisoners-remand-covid-hits-court-system/
England and Wales - Chelmsford Prison inmates are being vaccinated at the 'same rate as general public', confirms Ministry of Justice
News 5 May
Africa
Zimbabwe - Prisoners Released Early Due To Covid-19 Struggle To Fit In Society
https://www.tntribune.com/prisoners-released-early-due-to-covid-19-struggle-to-fit-in-society/
Americas
Bermuda - Westgate prisoner to take legal action over Covid-19 isolation
US (New York) - Vaccine Rates Among the Incarcerated Remain Low Amid Mistrust and Misinformation
https://therivernewsroom.com/inmate-vaccine-rates-mistrust-misinformation/
US (Oregon) - Lawyers for COVID-19 infected inmates, families of prisoners who have died seek class-action status
Asia
India - Covid-19 crisis in Delhi calls for immediate decongestion of jails, plea tells HC judge-led panel
India - 57 women prisoners lodged in Tihar jail test COVID-19 positive in one month
Thailand - Field hospitals at Klong Prem Prison for infected inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Concerns for mental health of prisoners kept inside with limited visits during pandemic
England and Wales - Drop in number of inmates at Doncaster, Moorland, Lindholme and Hatfield prisons during pandemic
France - Covid-19 : le cluster prend de l'ampleur dans la prison de Salon-de-Provence
Luxembourg - Situation in Schrassig Prison is improving
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1716680.html
News 1-4 May
Kenya: Covid-19 - 34 Remandees at Siaya GK Prison Test Positive
https://allafrica.com/stories/202105040245.html
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 confirmed at Iqaluit's jails, boarding home as cases rise
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison visits suspended following COVID-19 restrictions
https://www.looptt.com/content/prison-visits-suspended-following-covid-19-restrictions
US (Maine) - Two dozen inmates at women’s prison have COVID-19
https://www.pressherald.com/2021/04/30/two-dozen-inmates-at-womens-prison-have-covid-19/
Asia
India - Maharashtra prison authority sets up ‘two-tier protection’ to curb virus spread in jails
India - Maharashtra's Prisons Are Feeling the Brunt of a Crisis That Could Have Been Averted
https://thewire.in/rights/maharashtra-prisons-covid-19-crisis-vaccine-deaths-infection
India - Coronavirus: Allahabad HC orders release of prisoners to unclog jails in Uttar Pradesh
India - Prison Radio To Help Inmates Cope Stress During Covid-19
https://womansera.com/prison-radio-to-help-inmates-cope-stress-during-covid-19/
33 inmates test postive for Covid-19 in Kuwait prison
https://www.gdnonline.com/Details/943889/33-inmates-test-postive-for-Covid-19-in-Kuwait-prison
Maldives Correctional Services begins identifying high-risk prisoners
Nepal - Virus spreads among jailbirds in Bajura
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/virus-spreads-among-jailbirds-in-bajura
Sri Lanka - Prisons officers to receive AstraZeneca second dose
https://www.nation.lk/online/prisons-officers-to-receive-astrazeneca-second-dose-78333.html
Europe
Belgium - Certaines prisons en chaos sanitaire: la vaccination débute
England and Wales - Prisoners left without clean underwear and socks for up to 11 weeks at HMP Wandsworth, claim their lawyers
England and Wales - Norfolk sex offender jail praised for protecting inmates from Covid
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/norfolk-sex-offender-hmp-bure-praised-inspection-coronavirus-7940268
England and Wales - HMP Preston Covid outbreak results in stronger measures for inmates
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/hmp-preston-covid-outbreak-results-20503501
COVID-19 in Iceland: No Infections Spread in Prisons
https://www.icelandreview.com/society/covid-19-in-iceland-no-infections-spread-in-prisons/
Ireland - ICPO hopes vaccine rollout sees return of family visits for overseas prisoners
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40280498.html
Luxembourg - La situation se détend à la prison de Schrassig
https://5minutes.rtl.lu/actu/luxembourg/a/1716489.html
300 inmates contract COVID-19 in northwestern Turkey as cases soar nationwide
Left Behind to Die: COVID-19 in Turkish Prisons and Discrimination Against Political Prisoners
News 30 April
Africa
Uganda - Protect rights and safety of prisoners
https://www.newvision.co.ug/articledetails/331
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak at Donnacona prison
https://montrealgazette.com/news/quebec/covid-19-outbreak-at-donnacona-prison
US - Covid Was Supposed to Cut Jail Time. Not for Those Awaiting Trial.
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-04-29/covid-is-making-pretrial-detention-even-longer
Asia
India - After 4 die of Covid-19, Tihar asks govt to allow release of inmates on parole
India - Spike in COVID-19 cases: Entry of visitors to meet inmates barred at Tiruchi Central Prison
Europe
France - Covid-19 à la prison d'Amiens : une dizaine de cas recensés, un syndicat de surveillants demande la vaccination
News 29 April
Africa
Burundi President Flags Off 5000 Pardoned Prisoners
https://taarifa.rw/burundi-president-flags-off-5000-pardoned-prisoners/
Americas
Jamaica - Prison inmates to start getting COVID-19 vaccines this week
US - One Year Into Pandemic, Several Prisons Resume in-Person Visits
US - Some L.A. County jail inmates seek vaccinations — to get early transfer to state prison
US (Nevada) - After 14-month suspension, Department of Corrections announces phased return of visitation at prisons
Asia
India - Two die of Covid-19 at Tihar jail; prison reports 261 active cases
India - Covid-19: Madurai jail bans prisoners from meeting kin
Europe
Belgium - Surpopulation carcérale: nos prisons à nouveau dans le rouge avec des contaminations Covid qui se multiplient
Belgium - Mesures strictes dans les prisons à cause de la pandémie: les détenus n'en peuvent plus et dénoncent leurs conditions de vie
England and Wales - Record number of deaths in prison amid Covid surge, figures show
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/prison-deaths-covid-england-wales-b1839492.html
England and Wales - Preston Prison hit by major Covid outbreak
https://www.lep.co.uk/health/coronavirus/preston-prison-hit-by-major-covid-outbreak-3217781
Hungary - Coronavirus: Vaccination of Inmates Begins
https://hungarytoday.hu/coronavirus-vaccination-inmates-prison-jail-begins-sinopharm/
New Scottish Government report prompts concern over use of remand in prisons
2 chronically ill inmates contract COVID-19 from prison personnel in northwestern Turkey
News 28 April
Africa
Egypt president pardons 2,674 prisoners
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20210427-egypt-president-pardons-2674-prisoners/
Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu pardons 5,001 prisoners
Americas
Barbados - Prison staffer positive
https://barbadostoday.bb/2021/04/27/prison-staffer-positive/
Trinidad & Tobago - Hinds: Eight detainees, 17 prison officers have COVID-19
http://www.looptt.com/content/hinds-eight-detainees-17-prison-officers-have-covid-19
US - Inside vaccine efforts in NY prisons: Eligibility expanded, concerns remain
http://dailyorange.com/2021/04/vaccine-efforts-new-york-prisons-eligibility-concerns/
US - The Illinois Juvenile Justice System Faces COVID-19
https://chicagomaroon.com/article/2021/4/27/illinois-juvenile-justice-system-faces-covid-19-e4ddcb/
Asia
India - Plea in HC for temporary release of prisoners to decongest jails during pandemic
India - COVID-19 surge: 60-day emergency leave for MP jail inmates
Lebanon - Vaccination campaign gets underway in Beirut prison
Europe
Belgium - La propagation du coronavirus dans les prisons nuit au respect des droits fondamentaux
Latvia opens up a new priority group for Covid-19 vaccination
https://bnn-news.com/latvia-opens-up-a-new-priority-group-for-covid-19-vaccination-224297
Oceania
Papua New Guinea – COVID-19 A Threat to Jail Security, Manpower
https://postcourier.com.pg/covid-19-a-threat-to-jail-security-manpower/
News 27 April
Americas
Antigua - Major Covid-19 testing exercise conducted at Her Majesty’s Prison
https://antiguaobserver.com/major-covid-19-testing-exercise-conducted-at-her-majestys-prison/
Canada - Nova Scotia urged to depopulate jails as prisoners and staff continue to wait for vaccine
Mexico - Relatives fear for the lives of inmates in Puebla prison
https://mexiconewsdaily.com/news/relatives-fear-for-the-lives-of-inmates-in-puebla-prison/
Compassionate release being considered for prisoners in St Vincent
US - Maine jails seek COVID-19 vaccines for inmates
Asia
COVID-19 is spreading among Bahrain’s prisoners of conscience
India - Positive cases rise to 175 at jail
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/positive-cases-rise-to-175-at-jail/article34417331.ece
Europe
People in prisons should not be left behind amid COVID-19 vaccination
England and Wales - Exeter prison disarray laid bare as staff slammed by urgent investigation
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/exeter-prison-disarray-laid-bare-5343752
France - Cluster à la prison de Montauban : une situation qui risque de vite devenir "ingérable"
Detainees in Swiss prisons at lowest level in a decade
https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/detainees-in-swiss-prisons-at-lowest-level-in-a-decade/46568852
News 24-26 April
Africa
Uganda - Prisons use up 99% of their Covid-19 vaccine doses
https://www.independent.co.ug/prisons-use-up-99-of-their-covid-19-vaccine-doses/
Americas
Bermuda - Westgate inmate 'punished' for asking for alternative Covid-19 test
Canada - Only half of the inmates at Hamilton’s jail have been vaccinated for COVID-19
US - The essential — and dangerous — work prisoners do
https://www.hcn.org/articles/south-labor-the-essential-and-dangerous-work-prisoners-do
US (Texas) - No visits and barely any calls – pandemic makes separation even scarier for people with a family member in prison
US (Illinois) - Prioritizing Incarcerated People for Vaccine Quickly Reduced COVID in IL Prisons
Asia
India - Maharashtra: From crowded jails, prisoners walk out to isolation and hunger
India - Almost all jails in Maharashtra overcrowded, prison officials struggle to enforce ‘equitable distribution’
India - Situation goes out of control as 83 more in Kannur jail turn COVID positive
Maldives - Male' Prison Annex I under lockdown due to discovery of Covid-19 cases
Pakistan - Over 1,000 prisoners get anti-Covid shots
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2296710/over-1000-prisoners-get-anti-covid-shots
Thailand - 144 inmates infected at Chiang Mai prison
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2105787/144-inmates-infected-at-chiang-mai-prison
Europe
Belgium - Alors qu'il y a 52 cas de covid-19 chez les détenus, un test massif de dépistage est réalisé à Jamioulx
England and Wales – Rising self-harm levels in women’s jails in UK are ‘worryingly high’, warns report
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/self-harm-womens-prisons-b1836636.html
England and Wales - Sage warns jails could unleash Covid variants into wider community
England and Wales - 'Heartbreaking:' Doncaster jail slammed for social distancing as family visits restart
France - Covid-19 : un cluster à la maison d'arrêt de Montauban, l'inquiétude des familles de détenus
Ireland - Mountjoy governor apologises to solicitors for difficulties meeting clients
Isle of Man - Weekend prison visiting suspended
https://www.three.fm/news/coronavirus/weekend-prison-visiting-suspended/
Oceania
New Zealand - Kiwi prisoners face longer stays behind bars without conviction
News 23 April
Africa
Kenya - Over 14,000 prisoners released in a bid to decongest prisons
https://www.kbc.co.ke/over-14000-inmates-released-in-a-bid-to-decongest-prisons/
Americas
US - How We Survived Covid-19 In Prison
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/04/23/how-we-survived-covid-19-in-prison
US - Federal Inmates On Home Confinement Face Uncertainty Of Returning To Prison
US - Iowa prisons resume COVID-19 vaccinations for inmates, but vaccine rate lags behind neighboring states
US - Illinois cuts prison call costs; Oklahoma inmates, families still struggle
US - Nevada prisons will allow visitors again starting in May
https://news3lv.com/news/coronavirus/nevada-prisons-will-allow-visitors-again-starting-in-may
Asia
Bangladesh - Chief Justice asks special judges' courts to deal with bail, urgent criminal applications virtually
India - PUDR urges Delhi HC to take urgent action on worsening situation in prisons amid rise in COVID cases
Death by Zoom: virus-hit Indonesia orders executions online
Sri Lanka - Visiting rights of prisoners temporarily suspended
https://colombogazette.com/2021/04/23/visiting-rights-of-prisoners-temporarily-suspended/
Thailand - 37 inmates at Chiang Mai prison test positive for Covid-19
https://thethaiger.com/news/national/37-inmates-at-chiang-mai-prison-test-positive-for-covid-19
Europe
Belgium - Covid-19 : la prison de Forest en confinement après la découverte d’un cluster
Belgium - Le personnel des prisons sera vacciné dès début mai
https://bx1.be/dossiers/coronavirus/le-personnel-des-prisons-sera-vaccine-des-debut-mai/
England and Wales - HMP Durham criticised by watchdog after prisoner died from Covid
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/hmp-durham-criticised-watchdog-after-20433691
Northern Ireland - In-person prison visits to resume in less than two weeks
https://www.irishlegal.com/article/in-person-prison-visits-to-resume-in-less-than-two-weeks
News 22 April
Africa
Zimbabwe - 6 prison officers, 4 inmates succumb to Covid-19
https://www.chronicle.co.zw/6-prison-officers-4-inmates-succumb-to-covid-19/
Americas
US - In Vermont, Isolating Inmates Kept Covid at Bay, but at a Price
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/21/us/vermont-prison-covid.html
US - NY Quietly Stopped Vaccinating People In State Prisons—But Promised To Resume After Questioning
Asia
India - Prisons on alert with rising COVID-19 cases, mulaqat stopped
Iran - Fourth wave of COVID-19 threatens the lives of inmates in Karaj Prison
Europe
Belgium - Situation de plus en plus tendue à la prison de Jamioulx: 52 détenus ont été testés positifs au Covid, deux ailes ont dû être mises en quarantaine!
England and Wales - Prisoners complain of toll on mental health of being locked in a cell for 23 hours a day
News 21 April
Americas
US - Bureau of Prisons Director Testimony To Senate Judiciary Leaves Unanswered Questions
US - Pandemic makes separation even scarier for people with a family member in prison
https://phys.org/news/2021-04-pandemic-scarier-people-family-member.html
US - NY Women’s Prison, Housing Mothers and Newborns, Hit By COVID-19 Outbreak
https://gothamist.com/news/ny-womens-prison-housing-mothers-and-newborns-hit-by-covid-19-outbreak
US - More and more Vermont prisoners are refusing vaccinations against Covid-19
US - North Carolina prisons reopen visits for children, extend time limits
US - Appeals court reverses ruling that would have provided more COVID protections at Texas geriatric prison
Asia
India - Covid guidelines for jail inmates
India - Courts refusing to release prisoners on bail: Maha govt tells HC on worsening Covid crisis in jails
Europe
England and Wales - Bedford Prison has Covid outbreaks under control but inspectors find cases of assaults and violence still high
France - Surpopulation carcérale: l'exécutif s'engage sur 15 000 places de prison supplémentaires
Ireland - Sentencing cases adjourned due to Prison Service action over Covid-19 vaccines
Oceania
Australia (Queensland) - Prisoners kept behind bars for months amid parole board backlog
News 20 April
Africa
Tunisia - Surpopulation carcérale, torture et risques de contamination par la Covid-19 | Jamel Msallem, président de la Ligue tunisienne des droits de l’Homme (LTDH), à La Presse : «Les conditions de détention dans les prisons tunisiennes sont illégales»
Americas
US - Oregon prison COVID-19 lawsuit ruling hailed as a landmark for prisoners’ rights
US - Alaska prisoners who are vaccinated can be visited by family and others starting Wednesday
Asia
Tensions rise in Bahrain prison as inmates, families protest conditions
https://whbl.com/2021/04/19/tensions-rise-in-bahrain-prison-as-inmates-families-protest-conditions/
India - COVID-19: Maharashtra govt open to decongesting prisons, seeks directions from Bombay High Court
India - 55 inmates, 4 staffers of Ahmedabad's Sabarmati jail test positive for Covid-19
Europe
Belgium - ‘Explosive situation in prisons’: Calls for all detainees to be given vaccination priority
England and Wales - Peterborough jail criticised as female inmates kept locked in cells for 23 hours a day during COVID lockdown
France - Covid-19. Cluster à la prison d’Alençon – Condé-sur-Sarthe : dix-neuf surveillants positifs
News 17-19 April
Africa
Tunisie – Covid-19 : Démarrage des vaccinations dans les prisons
Zimbabwe begins release of over 3,000 prisoners
https://www.enca.com/africa/africa-zim-begins-release-over-3000-prisoners
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 vaccinations of inmates begin at Regina jail
https://thestarphoenix.com/news/local-news/handful-of-inmates-vaccinated-through-community-sites
Canada - Hamilton public health vaccinating inmates but not jail guards is 'egregious,' union says
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/hwdc-jail-inmate-vaccine-1.5989544
US - Congress Weighs In On Federal Bureau of Prisons’ Handling Of COVID-19
US - Courts ends judicial oversight of COVID measures in Hawaii prisons
US (Kentucky) - How Many Coronavirus Cases In Ky. Jails? We Don’t Know, And State Won’t Say
https://kycir.org/2021/04/19/how-many-coronavirus-cases-in-ky-jails-we-dont-know-and-state-wont-say/
Asia
India - Maharashtra: Pandemic-hit ‘qaidi mulaqat’ goes online again
India - Plea in HC to release prisoners on interim bail to decongest jails due to spike in COVID-19 cases in Delhi
Philippines - Iwahig Prison in Palawan ends 21-day COVID quarantine April 21
https://mb.com.ph/2021/04/19/iwahig-prison-in-palawan-ends-21-day-covid-quarantine-april-21/
Europe
Belgium - Give prison staff priority vaccination, says Justice Minister
England and Wales - SAGE finding could speed up Covid jabs in jails
https://insidetime.org/sage-finding-could-speed-up-covid-jabs-in-jails/
Ireland - Prison officers defend withdrawal of 'goodwill' duties over concerns about when they'll be vaccinated
https://www.thejournal.ie/prison-officers-withdrawal-goodwill-covid-19-vaccine-5413872-Apr2021/
Justice Ministry admits to overcrowding in Turkey’s prisons during pandemic
https://stockholmcf.org/justice-ministry-admits-to-overcrowding-in-turkeys-prisons-during-pandemic/
News 16 April
Africa
Zimbabwe - Amnesty granted for female prisoners
https://www.herald.co.zw/amnesty-granted-for-female-prisoners/
Americas
Canada - More than 150 COVID-19 cases at Regina jail, 5 inmates in hospital: SGEU
U.S. has no plans to order inmates released in pandemic back to prison-official
Asia
India - Maharashtra: As cases among inmates rise, prison dept ramps up testing, plans to restart temporary jails
India - Vaccination of jail inmates hits technical hurdle
India - Karnataka High Court Seeks State Response On Prison Conditions
https://www.livelaw.in/news-updates/karnataka-high-court-conditions-of-prisons-karnataka-172645
Philippines - Group slams ‘conflicting’ statements on PDLs inclusion in COVID-19 vaccinations
Europe
England and Wales - Call to give every prisoner access to digital learning
https://www.tes.com/news/prison-education%3Dcalls-give-every-prisoner-access-digital-learning
England and Wales - Covid-19 outbreak at Stocken Prison declared over by Public Health England
https://www.stamfordmercury.co.uk/news/prisons-covid-19-outbreak-declared-over-9195641/
Ireland - Withdrawal of goodwill by prison officers over vaccine
https://www.rte.ie/news/2021/0416/1210255-prison-officers-covid-vaccines/
Luxembourg - Schrassig Prison Under Partial Lockdown
https://delano.lu/d/detail/news/schrassig-prison-under-partial-lockdown/214323
News 15 April
Africa
Behind the wall: Africa’s prison health crisis [podcast]
https://www.scidev.net/global/podcast/behind-the-wall-africas-prison-health-crisis/
Americas
Covid is ravaging American jails and prisons – and inmates are rightly rising up
US (California) - Will COVID-19 vaccinations mean more prison overcrowding deaths?
US (Virginia) - Video visits for prison inmates, families up more than forty-fold in past year
Asia
India - Overcrowded Delhi Prisons Witness Massive Spike in COVID-19 Cases
https://thewire.in/health/overcrowded-delhi-prisons-witness-massive-spike-in-covid-19-cases
India - Maharashtra has 284 prisoners and jail employees corona positive, 15 people killed
Iranian Government Responsible to Protect Prisoners against Fourth Wave of COVID
Europe
Belgium - La visio, une pointe d’humanité dans les prisons confinées
England and Wales - HMP Full Sutton ‘safe’ despite Covid pressures, say independent monitors
France - Covid-19 : important cluster à la prison d'Orléans-Saran
Oceania
Australia’s mega prison raises fears for prisoner and rural health
https://www.croakey.org/australias-mega-prison-raises-fears-for-prisoner-and-rural-health/
News 14 April
Africa
Zimbabwe: President Okays Amnesty Request
https://allafrica.com/stories/202104140374.html
Americas
US - Illinois ranks in top ten for COVID-19 cases, deaths in prisons
https://week.com/2021/04/13/illinois-ranks-in-top-ten-for-covid-19-cases-deaths-in-prisons/
US (Illinois) - COVID Shut Down Most Prison Education Programs. Here's How Incarcerated Students Have Kept Learning
US (Connecticut) - CT's prison population shrunk during the pandemic. Will it last?
https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/CT-s-prison-population-shrunk-during-the-16097878.php
US - As vaccines trickle into Alabama prisons, COVID-19 deaths continue
Asia
India - State prisons step up efforts to tackle second wave of COVID-19 in Assam
Philippines - CHR bats for inclusion of prisoners in COVID-19 vaccine priority list
Europe
England and Wales - Three days of strikes announced for prison education staff across England
News 13 April
Africa
Uganda - Byabasaija blames prison crowding on DPP, Judiciary
Americas
US - Illinois prisons resume in-person visits for inmates
https://www.kwqc.com/2021/04/13/illinois-prisons-resume-in-person-visits-for-inmates/
US - California prisons resume in-person visits with some changes
US - Nevada newspaper tallies at least 55 inmate COVID-19 deaths
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Nevada-newspaper-tallies-at-least-55-inmate-16094753.php
US - Lawsuit reveals deadly conditions for Washington D.C. jail inmates during the pandemic
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2021/04/13/dcja-a13.html
Asia
Bangladesh - Under-trial prisoners need not attend court
https://www.thedailystar.net/city/news/under-trial-prisoners-need-not-attend-court-2076869
India - Covid-19: Tihar jail on high alert, 52 inmates test Covid+Ve
https://pragnews.com/covid-19-tihar-jail-on-high-alert-52-inmates-test-covidve/
Philippines - DOJ proposes inmates’ inoculation
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136630
Europe
Belgium - Craintes à la prison de Jamioulx: 40 cas de Covid et les agents ne sont ni testés ni placés en quarantaine
France - Charente-Maritime : un nouveau cluster de Covid-19 à la prison de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Ireland - Prison schools to reopen next week
https://www.irishlegal.com/article/prison-schools-to-reopen-next-week
Turkey continues building new prisons to jail even more people
https://stockholmcf.org/turkey-continues-building-new-prisons-to-jail-even-more-people/
News 10-12 April
Americas
Plastic Sheets, Pencil Crayons, Cheese Strings: Inside One Canadian Prison’s Chaotic Effort to Stop a COVID-19 Outbreak
Incarcerated and Infected: How the Virus Tore Through the U.S. Prison System
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/04/10/us/covid-prison-outbreak.html
Covid-19: Infections Among U.S. Prisoners Have Been Triple Those of Other Americans
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/04/10/world/covid-vaccine-coronavirus-cases
Thousands of low-level U.S. inmates released in pandemic could be headed back to prison
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-usa-justice-idUSKBN2BY0AU
US - Just 7% of Wisconsin prisoners have received COVID-19 vaccine, despite outcry over inmates being prioritized
Asia
Bahraini authorities flouting prisoners’ rights to health amid rise in COVID-19 cases at Jaw prison
Bahrain releases dozens of prisoners after Covid cases
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/covid-bahrain-prisoners-detainees-release
India - Rising virus cases pose fresh trial for prisons
Europe
Families and children 'hardest hit' as prison visits in Northern Ireland were limited to 93 days in 2020
https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-news/families-children-hardest-hit-prison-20352860
Portugal - Prison population falling
https://www.theportugalnews.com/news/2021-04-11/prison-population-falling/59270
Oceania
Papua New Guinea - Suspect Cases in Jails Rise
https://postcourier.com.pg/suspect-cases-in-jails-rise/
News 9 April
Africa
Kenya - Improved prisoners to complete long sentences at home
https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2021-04-08-improved-prisoners-to-complete-long-sentences-at-home/
Réunion - Covid-19 en prison : une trentaine de détenus vaccinés à ce jour
Americas
US - 40% of incarcerated people have chronic conditions — how good is the healthcare they get behind bars?
https://whyy.org/segments/why-good-health-care-in-u-s-prisons-may-be-hard-to-come-by/
US (California) - COVID-19 Outbreak at Donovan Prison in Otay Mesa Left 18 Dead Over 5 Weeks
US - Florida plans to vaccinate more than 30,000 inmates
https://www.news4jax.com/i-team/2021/04/08/florida-plans-to-vaccinate-more-than-30000-inmates/
Asia
India - No Covid-19 infected inmates be kept inside: Odisha to prison authorities
Iran - 35 inmates in critical conditions in Karaj Central Prison from COVID-19 contamination
Malaysia - Prisons Dept creates 13 satellite prisons to ease congestion
Malaysia - Torn between compassion and safety on prison visits
https://www.thesundaily.my/local/torn-between-compassion-and-safety-on-prison-visits-GF7502239
Sri Lanka - Divulapitiya, Peliyagoda and Prison Covid-19 clusters -total cases today- 309
Europe
England and Wales - Covid outbreak reported at maximum security prison Long Lartin in Worcestershire
Italy - 46 Rebibbia inmates indicted for COVID riot
Conditions in Ankara’s Sincan Prison inhumane, says Turkish Parliament sub-committee
News 8 April
World Executions for Drug Charges Fell Sharply Amid COVID. It’s Likely Temporary.
https://filtermag.org/drug-executions-world/
Africa
Uganda - European Ambassador urges authorities pardon prisoners
https://capitalradio.co.ug/tag/byabashaija/
Americas
US - Georgia, Mississippi Prisons Offer Inmates Cookies, Commissary Credit as COVID Vaccine Incentive
US - Judge orders Alaska Corrections Dept. to allow attorneys in-person visits with incarcerated clients regardless of vaccine status
https://autos.yahoo.com/judge-orders-alaska-corrections-dept-134700619.html
US (Vermont) - Corrections chief ‘not happy’ with number of inmates declining Covid-19 vaccinations
US (Rhode Island) - Prison inmates to receive in-person visits after more than a year
https://turnto10.com/i-team/prison-inmates-to-receive-in-person-visits-after-more-than-a-year
US - Hawai‘i’s Top Court in Favor of Ending Emergency COVID Orders Related to Release of Certain Inmates
Asia
India - 19 Tihar prisoners hospitalised after testing Covid positive, jail on high alert
Pakistan - Vaccination of prisoners of 50 years and above starts in Sindh’s 22 jails
Europe
England and Wales - From lack of showers to isolation, women have faced distressing prison conditions during Covid
https://inews.co.uk/opinion/covid-conditions-women-in-prison-plans-more-prisoners-baffling-945430
News 7 April
Americas
US - N.Y. prison visitation to resume
https://suncommunitynews.com/news/88206/ny-prison-visitation-to-resume/
US - Florida Prisons Increase Inmate Intakes From County Jails As COVID-19 Restrictions Relax
Asia
COVID Outbreak in Prison Sparks New Protests in Bahrain
https://www.humanrightsfirst.org/blog/covid-outbreak-prison-sparks-new-protests-bahrain
India - Amid COVID surge, Rajasthan prisoners refrained from meeting kin till April 19
Malaysia - Prison visits now allowed through bookings, strict Covid-19 SOPs, says Prisons Dept
Philippines - BuCor facility in Zamboanga under 1-month lockdown amid COVID spike
Europe
"It's made the prisoners kinder to each other": How Jersey's prison has stayed Covid-free
Scotland - Prisoners on remand pleading guilty to avoid Covid custody
https://www.scottishlegal.com/article/prisoners-on-remand-pleading-guilty-to-avoid-covid-custody
News 2 – 6 April
Americas
'Public health crisis': Canada's prison conditions during pandemic being investigated
US - As States Expand Vaccine Eligibility, Many People in Prison Still Wait for Shots
US - Unless Biden Acts, Thousands Could Go Back to Federal Prison
https://theappeal.org/unless-biden-acts-thousands-could-go-back-to-federal-prison/
Studies detail large COVID outbreaks at US prisons, jails
US - Judge allows lawsuit over Minnesota prison vaccinations to proceed
https://www.twincities.com/2021/04/02/lawsuit-minnesota-prison-vaccinations-covid/
US (Missouri) - Inmates riot in American prison and shout ‘we want court dates’
US - Colorado prisons department approves $500 bonuses for vaccinated workers; active cases drop
Asia
Bahrain to release 126 prisoners amid protests over virus fears
https://www.macaubusiness.com/bahrain-to-release-126-prisoners-amid-protests-over-virus-fears/
India - Family meetings cancelled at Delhi’s three prisons in view of Covid-19 spread
Pakistan - COVID-19: Sindh govt to vaccinate prisoners above age 50 from April 7
Thailand - Prison visits halted nationwide after COVID cluster found
https://www.thephuketnews.com/prison-visits-halted-nationwide-after-covid-cluster-found-79566.php
Europe
The EU's under-reported pre-trial detention problem
https://euobserver.com/opinion/151434
England and Wales - Prison Service launches review of post-Covid regimes
https://insidetime.org/prison-service-launches-review-of-post-covid-regimes/
England and Wales - Bingo, prison telly and no time for fighting - how Covid-19 has transformed life for prisoners in Forest Bank
Scottish courts face crisis after number of people on remand in prison rises
News 1 April
Americas
US - Expanding Home Confinement During COVID-19
https://www.theregreview.org/2021/04/01/downey-expanding-home-confinement-during-covid-19/
US - Colorado is offering prison staff $500 to get COVID-19 vaccines in effort to boost low inoculation rates
https://coloradosun.com/2021/03/31/colorado-prisons-vaccine-distribution-incentive/
US - Kentucky’s Prison Coronavirus Defense Is Failing
https://news.wjct.org/post/kentucky-s-prison-coronavirus-defense-failing
US - Alabama begins vaccinating prisoners with surplus from rural clinics
Asia
Philippines - Overcrowding and harsh conditions led to COVID-19 spread among inmates
Philippines - BuCor urged to allow delivery of food, medicine to inmates in jail facilities
Europe
England and Wales - Prison lockdown has damaged inmates’ mental health, says report
https://www.channel4.com/news/prison-lockdown-has-damaged-inmates-mental-health-says-report
England and Wales - Ministry of Justice facing legal action over prisons
England and Wales - Chelmsford prisoners allowed visits for just 100 days throughout 2020 due to COVID-19
Ireland - Covid-19 infection rate at prisons Portlaoise and other Irish jails revealed in advice to NPHET
Oceania
Australia - Podcast series gives NSW prison officers a voice on life working in state's jails
News 31 March
Africa
Zimbabwe – 13 Prisoners Test Positive
http://www.newsdzezimbabwe.co.uk/2021/03/covid-19-13-prisoners-test-positive.html
Americas
Virus Outbreak In Chile Prison; Pinera On Jab Deal
US - Expert: 3 things could ease COVID-19 spread in prisons
https://www.futurity.org/covid-19-prisons-2537372/
US (Michigan) - How public health and prisons are intertwined
https://www.michiganradio.org/post/how-public-health-and-prisons-are-intertwined
US - Lawsuit demands immediate COVID-19 vaccinations for people incarcerated at Washington prisons
US (New York) - NY prisons to resume visitation in late April
Asia
India - Punjab: 44 inmates of women prison in Patiala test positive for COVID-19
India - Jail dept frees 1,349 prisoners
Europe
England and Wales - Covid outbreak at Dartmoor prison sees staff still recovering three months on
https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/covid-outbreak-dartmoor-prison-sees-5244344
Ireland - 1,206 Prisoners Waiting For Psychology Services
https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/1206-prisoners-waiting-for-psychology-services/
Call for action after Scotland's Covid prisoner death toll revealed
News 30 March
Americas
Bermuda - Westgate inmates hit with Covid-19 infections
Trinidad & Tobago - Concerns raised after prisoner tests positive for COVID-19
https://www.looptt.com/content/concerns-raised-after-prisoner-tests-positive-covid-19
US - Most States Fail to Track Critical COVID-19 Data for Prisons, Jails and Juvenile Facilities
US - Youth Justice System Worsened During Pandemic: Report
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/03/29/youth-justice-system-worsened-during-pandemic-report/
US - New York Must Offer Vaccine to All Prisoners Immediately, Judge Rules
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/29/nyregion/covid-vaccine-new-york-prisons.html
US - Judge orders Oregon prison to stop foot-dragging on mask mandates; doctor ‘at war’ with staff over COVID-19 misinformation
US - Missouri Department of Corrections to restart visitation based on COVID-19 vaccinations
Asia
Cambodia - Prison department appeals for online hearings amid overcrowding
Thailand - Corrections Department drawing standard procedures
Europe
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Prisoners' children 'forgotten' during pandemic
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-56420186
England and Wales - Government expert warns of “long tail” to Covid in jails
https://insidetime.org/government-expert-warns-of-long-tail-to-covid-in-jails/
England and Wales - Lewes Prison’s low Covid rate comes at ‘huge price’ for prisoners and families, charity says
Oceania
Australia - Prisoner quarantine based on ‘alarming absence’ of health advice
News 27-29 March
Africa
Cameroon Prisoners Blame Overcrowding, Poor Hygiene for COVID Spread
South Africa - Lockdown: More than 100 Covid-19 parolees rearrested for 'committing violent crimes'
Tunisia – Covid 19: Un programme de vaccination des détenus sera mis en place
https://lapresse.tn/92385/covid-19-un-programme-de-vaccination-des-detenus-sera-mis-en-place/
Americas
Canada - Alberta prisoner populations rise after 'unprecedented' drop during COVID's early months
St Vincent & the Grenadines - Prison visits to resume
http://www.searchlight.vc/searchlight/press-release/2021/03/26/prison-visits-to-resume/
US - COVID-19 Lockdowns Have Been Hard On Youth Locked Up
https://www.wclk.com/post/covid-19-lockdowns-have-been-hard-youth-locked
US - West Virginia Excels In Vaccine Rollout, But Still Overlooks Prison and Jail Inmates
US - Appeals Court Panel Rejects Texas Inmates’ COVID-19 Lawsuit
Asia
India - 4,204 prisoners released on bail, 41 on parole after COVID outbreak in J&K: DG Prisons
India - Over 2,000 jail inmates in Haryana get parole extension
Lebanon jails facing ‘hungry revolution’
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1833031/middle-east
Europe
England and Wales - Hundreds of Ranby Prison inmates contract virus since start of pandemic
England and Wales - Coronavirus outbreak at Wayland prison
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/health/another-covid-outbreak-at-wayland-prison-7854820
England and Wales - Home Office data shows almost 200 Covid cases reported at Chelmsford prison since last March
https://www.essexlive.news/news/essex-news/home-office-data-shows-almost-5236858
France - Argentan. Sept nouveaux cas de Covid-19 à la prison en une semaine
Oceania
Australia - Further restrictions at Queensland Corrective Services facilities
https://www.miragenews.com/further-restrictions-at-queensland-corrective-536113/
Tonga prison head optimistic of resolution to overcrowding
News 26 March
Africa
Morocco - Covid-19 en prison: 77% des détenus prioritaires vaccinés
https://www.yabiladi.com/articles/details/107704/covid-19-prison-detenus-prioritaires-vaccines.html
Americas
Canada - Correctional service response to COVID-19 violates rights of incarcerated persons, lawsuit alleges
U.S. prisons start to resume allowing visits to inmates, with added virus precautions.
US - Inmate Distrust Of Prison Healthcare Fuels Distrust Of Covid Vaccines
US - Hundreds of Texas prisoners are getting vaccinated — months after many became eligible
https://www.texastribune.org/2021/03/25/texas-prisons-coronavirus-vaccines/
US - COVID in custody — one year into the failed pandemic response in Michigan’s prisons
Asia
Bahrain: Covid cases in prison under control
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20210325-bahrain-covid-cases-in-prison-under-control/
Europe
Russian Justice Ministry drafts order on telephone talks of female prisoners with children
http://rapsinews.com/legislation_news/20210325/306894122.html
Oceania
Australia - Goulburn prison officers strike over 'nonchalant attitude' to safety
News 25 March
Africa
Togo-Interview/Idrissou Akibou : « La prison de Tsévié a été transformée en prison-hôpital »
Americas
US - Oregon’s Prison Guards Called COVID-19 the “Plandemic” and Spread Vaccine Myths to Inmates, Lawyers Say
US - Wisconsin prisoner population dropped in 2020 amid pandemic
https://www.startribune.com/wisconsin-prisoner-population-dropped-in-2020-amid-pandemic/600038356/
US - In About-Face, Missouri Places Prison Inmates In Final COVID-19 Vaccination Group
US - Denied Vaccines, People Incarcerated in Alabama Prisons Are Dying of Covid
https://eji.org/news/denied-vaccines-people-in-alabama-prisons-are-dying-of-covid/
US - Vaccines key to resuming Pennsylvania prison reforms, secretary tells lawmakers
Europe
Ireland's prisons are now 'Covid-free' after 100 cases recorded during pandemic
Luxembourg - Association of Prison Officers criticises decision to only prioritise prisoners
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1694226.html
Covid: Scottish prison chiefs ‘pilot’ mass testing for staff but not inmates
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/politics/scottish-politics/3001372/covid-prison-test/
News 24 March
Africa
Gambia - Ministry Of Interior To Launch Prisons Rapid Assessment
https://www.voicegambia.com/2021/03/23/ministry-of-interior-to-launch-prisons-rapid-assessment/
Kenya - Covid-19: Prisons boss launches vaccination of 28,000 officers
https://nairobinews.nation.co.ke/news/covid-19-prisons-boss-launches-vaccination-of-28000-officers
Uganda prisons staff get COVID-19 vaccine jabs
https://www.independent.co.ug/uganda-prisons-staff-get-covid-19-vaccine-jabs/
Americas
Canada - Doctors and activists get together to denounce conditions in prisons
US - Fighting COVID Behind Bars
https://www.nyu.edu/about/news-publications/news/2021/march/covid-behind-bars-venters.html
US - California Prisons Restarting Visitations 1 Year Into Pandemic
US - Alaska prisons remain closed to visitors as mistrust undermines vaccination effort
US - About 1,000 Illinois prisoners to be released under COVID-19 lawsuit settlement
Europe
Britain sleepwalking into reoffending crisis
https://planetradio.co.uk/viking/local/news/britain-sleepwalking-into-reoffending-crisis/
England and Wales - Deaths in custody at HMP Durham rise during Covid pandemic while assaults fall, report reveals
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/deaths-custody-hmp-durham-rise-20239869
England and Wales - Prisoners at Nottinghamshire prison help make PPE for NHS staff
Malta - Methadone use in prison has almost halved in one year
https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/methadone-use-in-prison-has-almost-halved-in-one-year.859885
News 23 March
Africa
Botswana - Three Inmates Die From Covid-19
https://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?aid=89235&dir=2021/march/22
Ghana - Decongest prisons to curb COVID-19 - Joe Ghartey
https://www.pulse.com.gh/news/local/decongest-prisons-to-curb-covid-19-joe-ghartey/e71193c
Americas
Prison officers in Antigua and Barbuda protest over concerns made worse by COVID-19
Canada - Advocates critique rising jail figures in some provinces after initial COVID-19 fall
US - Inmates On Hunger Strike Protesting Arizona Prison Conditions
https://kjzz.org/content/1668692/inmates-hunger-strike-protesting-arizona-prison-conditions
US - The Unending Covid-19 Disaster In Maryland Prisons
https://therealnews.com/the-unending-covid-19-disaster-in-maryland-prisons
US - More Ohio prisons reopening for in-person visits as coronavirus infection rates drop
US - 63rd Alabama inmate dies after positive COVID test, still no vaccinations
Asia
Cambodia - Coronavirus increases crime causing packed prisons
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50828714/coronavirus-increases-crime-causing-packed-prisons/
Europe
Overcrowding in Belgian prisons leaves 148 inmates sleeping on the floor
England and Wales - Hull prison's turbulent year of being locked up in lockdown
News 20-22 March
Americas
Canada - ‘Folks are dying’: Community rallies for depopulation of Ontario jails after COVID-19 outbreaks
https://globalnews.ca/news/7709392/coronavirus-ontario-prison-depopulation/
US - How COVID Has Affected Policing And Incarceration
US - A Year Into The Pandemic, Illinois Prisons Still Have No Plan For In-Person Visits
US (Hawaii) - Questions Raised Over COVID Outbreak At Maui Jail
https://patch.com/hawaii/honolulu/questions-raised-over-covid-outbreak-maui-jail
US (Hawaii) - Swelling inmate populations prompt new fears about COVID outbreaks
Asia
India - Soft target: prisoners and pandemic
https://www.telegraphindia.com/opinion/soft-target-prisoners-and-pandemic/cid/1810270
India - Delhi Prisons steps up efforts to tackle COVID-19 as inmates return
Pakistan - Fourteen inmates of Lahore jail test Covid positive
https://nation.com.pk/19-Mar-2021/fourteen-inmates-of-lahore-jail-test-covid-positive
Philippines - A public health issue behind bars
https://www.rappler.com/voices/new-school/new-school-public-health-issue-behind-bars
Europe
Albania – St Kolli prison, Over 20 Inmates Affected by Covid-19
https://albaniandailynews.com/news/st-kolli-prison-more-than-20-inmates-affected-by-covid-19-1
England and Wales - A view from inside Gartree prison: How prisoners and staff near Harborough have dealt with Covid
Irish prison inspections cancelled for rest of the year
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/irish-prison-inspections-cancelled-for-rest-of-the-year-qb7mcnfdx
Luxembourg - First reported coronavirus case at Schrassig Prison, all other tests negative
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1692299.html
Scotland - Continued prison lockdowns are ‘de facto solitary confinement’
https://theferret.scot/prison-lockdowns-de-facto-solitary-confinement/
Oceania
Australia - ACT prison staff to receive extra training to defuse explosive situations
News 19 March
Africa
Cameroon - Coronavirus : flambée de la maladie à la prison principale de Nkongsamba
Americas
Bahamas - Prison officers demonstrate for 4 hours, demanding “give us our due”
https://ewnews.com/fed-up-prison-officers-demonstrate-for-4-hours-demanding-give-us-our-due
Jamaica - St Catherine prison inmate dies from COVID-19
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20210318/st-catherine-prison-inmate-dies-covid-19
Mexico - Inoculating prison inmates against Covid sparks debate in Quintana Roo
US - Less Than Half of Federal Bureau of Prisons Staff Have Accepted COVID Vaccines From the Agency
US - Family of man who died from Covid while incarcerated sues California prison system
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/mar/18/california-coronavirus-prison-system-lawsuit
US - Utah State Prison announces five more deaths tied to COVID-19
US - 'It takes a toll on your heart': Prison visitations resume for South Dakota inmates after a year of separation
US (Florida) - Gov. DeSantis defends omission of inmates in vaccine rollout
Asia
India - Uttar Pradesh: Over 1.16 lakh jail inmates to get COVID-19 vaccines on priority
Malaysia - Cabinet approves measures to overcome prison overcrowding
https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/567298
Europe
England and Wales - Covid: Prison outbreaks thought to skew stats
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-56405523
Strike ballot to open at prisons across England and Wales
France - Covid-19. La contagion s'étend à la prison d'Argentan
Ireland - Covid-19 has ‘compounded’ mental health issues for prisoners – charity
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40247195.html
Isle of Man - Two prison officers test positive for virus
News 18 March
COVID-19: Prisoners 'forgotten victims' of the pandemic - New Report
https://www.amnesty.org.uk/press-releases/covid-19-prisoners-forgotten-victims-pandemic-new-report
Americas
Constitutional challenge argues Parole Board of Canada is systematically violating prisoners’ right to timely post-suspension hearings
Inmates in Uruguay’s toughest prison volunteer for Covid-19 shot
https://www.laprensalatina.com/inmates-in-uruguays-toughest-prison-volunteer-for-covid-19-shot/
US - Prisoners Keep Dying of COVID While ‘Compassionate Releases’ Stall in Court
US - Covid Outbreaks Devastated Prisons, but State Inmates’ Access to the Vaccine Varies Widely
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/17/us/covid-prisoners-vaccine.html
US - MDOC and Maine CDC investigating COVID-19 outbreak at Maine State Prison
US Virgin Islands - V.I. Inmates Getting Vaccinated Against COVID
https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/03/17/v-i-inmates-getting-vaccinated-against-covid/
Asia
Malaysia - Covid-19: Over 11% of cases on Thursday (March 18) linked to prison, detention clusters
Nepal among countries that failed to provide fair treatment to prisoners during pandemic, Amnesty International says
Europe
Belgium - Over one in five inmates in Hasselt prison has coronavirus
Belgium - Coronavirus: l'Observatoire des prisons dénonce une situation "cauchemardesque" à Saint-Gilles
Third of remand prisoners in England being held beyond legal time limit for trials
England and Wales - Leeds council boss blames city's rising Covid rates on outbreaks in prisons
https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/leeds-news/leeds-council-boss-blames-citys-20191885
News 17 March
Africa
South Africa - Covid-19: Outbreaks at Western Cape school, prison reignite third wave fears
COVID-19: Zimbabwe grants pardons to ease crowded jails
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/covid-19-zimbabwe-grants-pardons-to-ease-crowded-jails/2178593
Americas
Canada - Toronto South jail faces outbreak of 70 COVID-19 cases, more than half linked to variant of concern
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/toronto-south-jail-faces-outbreak-234932818.html
US - The Struggle to Vaccinate People in Jails and Prisons
https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-prisons-vaccines/
US (Pennsylvania) - Two Pa. prisons have vaccinated more than 70% of inmates. An incentive program may be the difference
US - Inmate lawsuits blame California for prison COVID spread
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Inmate-lawsuits-blame-California-for-spreading-16031194.php
US - Oklahoma prisons reopen to visitors as vaccine access grows
https://www.kten.com/story/43507629/oklahoma-prisons-reopen-to-visitors-as-vaccine-access-grows
US - Alaska Department of Corrections loosens pandemic visitation policy, allowing lawyers to meet with vaccinated inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Covid death rate in prisons three times higher than outside
England and Wales - Prisoners and jail staff should get Covid vaccine priority, report states
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/prisoners-jail-staff-should-covid-20192102
England and Wales - Thousands of children have not seen parents for a year: Hidden impact of COVID on prisoners' families
https://phys.org/news/2021-03-thousands-children-parents-year-hidden.html
England and Wales - Scale of Covid outbreaks in Norfolk prisons far bigger than reported
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/crime/norfolk-coronavirus-prison-cases-much-bigger-7829400
France - COVID : Dans Les Prisons Françaises, Des Clusters De Contamination Apparaissent
News 16 March
Americas
US (California) - What It’s Like To Be Trapped In A Women’s Prison During A Pandemic
https://www.elle.com/culture/career-politics/a35766530/prison-pandemic-story-michele-scott/
US - Florida prison staff, inmates wait on word for vaccine eligibility
US - Wisconsin Inmates Say Prisons Didn't Protect Them From COVID-19 As Infection Rates Skyrocketed
US - Delaware bill would cut jail time during health crisis
https://whyy.org/articles/delaware-bill-would-cut-jail-time-during-health-crisis/
Europe
England and Wales - More than half of prisoners at under-staffed Long Lartin live in cells with no sink, toilet or running water, inspectors find
England and Wales - HMP Lowdham Grange's coronavirus outbreak in September was 'one of the biggest' in a prison at that time, according to HM Inspectorate of Prisons report
France - Covid-19 : les conditions de vie dans les prisons se dégradent
Turkish prison conditions worsen amid pandemic
https://www.dw.com/en/turkish-prison-conditions-worsen-amid-pandemic/a-56883451
News 13 – 15 March
Americas
Antigua - Work to complete isolation quarters continues amid Covid outbreak at prison
US prison guards refusing vaccine despite COVID-19 outbreaks
US - Covid Is Hitting Correctional Officers. Prisoners Are Paying the Price | Opinion
US - In-person prison visits to resume in Michigan, but through plexiglass shields
US (Iowa) - Expanded COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Won't Apply To State Prisons, DOC Says
US - North Dakota prison system reopens for in-person visitation
US - Kansas prisons report 16th COVID death
https://www.iolaregister.com/news/kansas-prisons-report-16th-covid-death
US (South Carolina) - Virtual visits to roll out in SC prisons after a year of no in-person visits
Asia
India - A Crisis in the Making: From De-congestion to Re-Congestion in Prisons
https://www.barandbench.com/columns/crisis-making-from-decongestion-to-recongestion-in-prisons
Sri Lanka - Twenty-seven more COVID-19 cases reported from prisons
http://www.adaderana.lk/news/72283/twenty-seven-more-covid-19-cases-reported-from-prisons
Europe
Europe’s prisoners left in limbo on coronavirus vaccinations
https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-prisoners-limbo-coronavirus-vaccinations/
England and Wales - One in five prisoners will refuse jab, survey finds
https://insidetime.org/one-in-five-prisoners-will-refuse-jab-survey-finds/
England and Wales - HMP Hull coronavirus outbreak infects '119 prisoners and staff'
France - Covid-19 : un cluster s'est déclaré à la prison de Muret
France - Des détenus positifs au Covid-19 à la prison d'Argentan
News 12 March
Americas
Canada - Red Cross called in to assist COVID-19 outbreak at Drumheller prison
US (California) - ACLU files lawsuit seeking release or vaccination of more San Diego County inmates after latest Covid-19 outbreak
https://edition.cnn.com/2021/03/12/us/san-diego-lawsuit-prison-coronavirus/index.html
US - DOC reinstates visitation at Louisiana’s state-run prisons
https://www.ksla.com/2021/03/11/doc-reinstates-visitation-louisianas-state-run-prisons/
US (Vermont) - Newport prison outbreak continues; 127 active cases
https://www.wcax.com/2021/03/11/newport-prison-outbreak-continues-127-active-cases/
US - Response To COVID-19 In Michigan Prisons Is Cruel And Unusual Punishment, Say Advocates
US - Oregon’s prisons have offered a vaccine to every inmate in custody
https://www.opb.org/article/2021/03/11/coronavirus-vaccine-oregon-prisons-covid-19-doses-inmates/
Europe
Belgium - Coronavirus: grève émotionnelle à la prison de Saint-Gilles
England and Wales - Prison officers to be given early access to spare vaccines
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/03/11/prison-officers-given-early-access-spare-vaccines/
England and Wales - Prison staff boosting mental wellbeing and rehabilitation during pandemic
England and Wales - Crime expert issues warning after prisoners 'forgotten' during pandemic
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/crime-expert-issues-warning-after-20067524
England and Wales - Second Covid outbreak confirmed at Hull Prison
Guernsey - Prison restarts visits as part of stage two
https://guernseypress.com/news/2021/03/12/prison-restarts-visits-as-part-of-stage-two/
Italy jail population down 12% in last yr - Antigone
News 11 March
Africa
COVID-19: Morocco Launches Vaccination Campaign in Prison Near Rabat
Americas
Canada - Prisoners refuse meals amid COVID-19 outbreak at Hamilton jail, 72 people infected
US - U.S. jail population plunged as COVID-19 spread, Justice Department says
https://news.trust.org/item/20210310135701-d257y/
US (New York) - ‘A Ticking Time Bomb’: City Jails Are Crowded Again, Stoking Covid Fears
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/nyregion/nyc-jail-covid.html
US - As COVID-19 spreads fast in Florida prisons, no vaccines have been given to its inmates
US - Coronavirus Plummets In Massachusetts Prisons And Jails, But Experts Urge Caution
US - Oklahoma: People who are incarcerated not yet eligible for COVID vaccine
Asia
India - Prisons and the pandemic
https://www.telegraphindia.com/opinion/prisons-and-the-pandemic/cid/1809124
Europe
England and Wales - Two die after Covid outbreak at HMP Erlestoke
https://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/news/19152251.two-die-prison-covid-outbreak/
England and Wales - Covid: Derbyshire Dales spike 'linked to outbreak at HMP Sudbury'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-56357730
Scotland - Covid: Outbreak of virus at Porterfield Prison in Inverness
News 10 March
Impact of COVID-19 ‘heavily felt’ by prisoners globally: UN expert
https://news.un.org/en/story/2021/03/1086802
Africa
Rwanda - Inmates grateful as Covid-19 vaccination exercise is taken to prisons
https://www.newtimes.co.rw/news/inmates-grateful-covid-19-vaccination-exercise-taken-prisons
South Africa - Prison visits allowed again under lockdown Level 1. Here are the rules
Americas
Canada - Legal groups object to isolation order for freed prisoners in Thunder Bay
US - Unseen and Unheard: Art and Writing from Inside Prison Walls during COVID-19
https://www.vera.org/unseen-and-unheard
US - Texas lifts yearlong ban on prison visitation beginning March 15
https://www.texastribune.org/2021/03/09/texas-prisons-visitation/
US - 1 in 4 California prison employees got COVID-19. Inmates have herd immunity at 7 sites
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article249734353.html
US - South Dakota correctional staff, inmates offered COVID-19 vaccine — but the state won't say how many are taking it
US - North Carolina is releasing thousands of prisoners early. It’s the sensible thing to do.
https://www.newsobserver.com/opinion/article249809233.html
US (Massachusetts) - 'I Don’t Want To Die In Here': One Woman's Experience With COVID While Incarcerated
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Unacceptable failure’ at youth jail, minister says
https://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/national/19147772.unacceptable-failure-youth-jail-minister-says/
England and Wales - South Cave coronavirus cases plummet after prison curbs Covid outbreak
News 9 March
COVID-19 pandemic exposes how little we know about prison conditions globally
Africa
Burundi's president grants amnesty to 5,000 prisoners
https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/burundi-president-amnesty-prisoners-3316706
Americas
Canada - An inside look at how the pandemic is being managed at Grand Valley Institution
US - White youths released far faster than Black youths during COVID-19 pandemic, new study finds
US (New York) – Report Finds Three Rikers Detainees Who Died of COVID-19 Were Held in Packed Dorms
US - California prisons order employees to wear masks in pandemic
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article249790438.html
US - Delaware prisons resuming in-person visits, but virtual sessions remain popular option
Asia
Inmates in Bahrain prison given COVID-19 jabs
https://www.zawya.com/mena/en/life/story/Inmates_in_Bahrain_prison_given_COVID19_jabs-SNG_203242146/
Europe
England and Wales - Covid-19 outbreak reported at Whatton prison near Grantham
https://www.granthamjournal.co.uk/news/covid-19-outbreak-reported-at-whatton-prison-9159175/
England and Wales - Covid cases at Sudbury prison leads to measures
https://www.staffordshire-live.co.uk/news/covid-cases-sudbury-prison-leads-5086325
England and Wales - Governor of HMP Liverpool sends letter to family of every inmate over mass testing
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/governor-hmp-liverpool-sends-letter-19997784
France - Covid-19 : "Il devient impossible d'appliquer les mesures minimales de prévention", alerte la contrôleuse générale des prisons
Ireland - Prisoners to be vaccinated as one cohort in group 9 of rollout
News 6-8 March
Africa
Ghana - Prisons Officers, VRA Staff Vaccinate Against COVID-19
https://www.peacefmonline.com/pages/local/health/202103/440344.php
Americas
Canada - 'They're still human beings': Drumheller prison lockdown causing mental health crisis, inmates' families say
Canada - One month after major COVID-19 outbreak, workers call for prison inmates to get vaccine
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/union-calls-for-inmates-covid-19-vaccine-bordeaux-1.5940014
Canada’s prison inmates receiving substandard health care, lawsuit alleges
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/canada-prison-inmates-receiving-substandard-030106296.html
Experts say mass incarceration crippled U.S. response to COVID-19
https://nbcmontana.com/news/local/experts-say-mass-incarceration-crippled-covid-19-response
US - Tennessee panel: Vaccinating inmates a 'PR nightmare,' despite high-risk status
US - Three cases of South African coronavirus variant found in Colorado prison
https://coloradosun.com/2021/03/07/colorado-coronavirus-south-african-variant/
US - Delaware inmates will soon be allowed to have in-person visitors
US (New York) - How the City Failed Three Men Who Died of COVID-19 in Jail: Watchdog
https://www.thecity.nyc/2021/3/8/22318504/nyc-failed-inmates-died-covid-rikers-jails
US (Hawaii) - Growing COVID-19 Outbreak At Maui Jail Has Inmates, Families Worried
Asia
India - ‘85% staff of Delhi prisons received Covid vaccine shots’
India - Jail inmates to get vax soon, says official in Maharashtra
India - Odisha prisoners to get Covid vaccine inside jails
Malaysia - SDMC says 42 detainees in Sibu prison tested positive for Covid-19
Maldives - Covid-19 inoculation drive to begin in prisons
Philippines - Prisoners in priority list of vaccine recipients—DoH
https://www.bworldonline.com/prisoners-in-priority-list-of-vaccine-recipients-doh/
Philippines - Livelihood programs give former inmates ‘second chance’ at life during pandemic
https://www.rappler.com/moveph/former-inmates-second-chance-livelihood-programs-coronavirus-pandemic
Europe
Belgium - La prison de Namur toujours en quarantaine
https://www.rtbf.be/info/regions/detail_la-prison-de-namur-toujours-en-quarantaine?id=10714106
Belgium - La flambée des cas de Covid-19 se poursuit à la prison de Hasselt : 45 nouvelles contaminations
England and Wales - 24 prison inmates died with coronavirus in two weeks
https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/19142737.24-prison-inmates-died-coronavirus-two-weeks/
France - Covid-19 : « Chaque jour, les directeurs de prison redoutent la transformation de leur établissement en cluster »
France - 14 personnels de la prison de Draguignan positifs à la Covid-19
Drop of 8% in Irish prison population since Covid pandemic hit
Less than 100 Covid cases among Irish prisoners since pandemic began, new figures reveal
https://www.thesun.ie/news/6669926/irish-prisons-covid-19-prison-officers/
Inmates in Turkish prisons to be allowed to send, receive e-mails
News 5 March
Americas
Canada - Opinion: COVID-19 intensifies already inhumane conditions in prisons
US - The Ever-Growing Challenges of Getting Books Into Prisons
https://bookriot.com/books-in-prisons/
US - Education in Prison: Remote Learning During COVID-19 Has Failed Students
https://www.teenvogue.com/story/education-prison-coronavirus
US (Maine) - State says people in jails and prisons will have to keep waiting for vaccines
US - Alaska Black Caucus pushes for pandemic-induced prison visitation restrictions to be loosened
US - Corrections commissioner calls Vermont prison outbreak a ‘crisis’
https://www.wcax.com/2021/03/04/corrections-commissioner-calls-vermont-prison-outbreak-a-crisis/
US - Nevada prisoners begin receiving COVID-19 vaccine
https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/nevada-prisoners-begin-receiving-covid-19-vaccine-2294807/
Asia
Prisoners Put to Work in Thai Factories Desperate for Labor
Europe
England and Wales - The impact of lockdown when you're already locked up
https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-03/su-tio030421.php
England and Wales - Covid-19: HMP Lowdham Grange praised for handling of outbreak
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-56286498
England and Wales - Prison outbreak gives Liverpool area highest Covid rate in England
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/prison-outbreak-gives-liverpool-area-19965980
France - Clusters en prison : "Une des solutions" pour les réduire, "c'est de faire chuter la population carcérale", défend l’Observatoire international des prisons
News 4 March
Americas
US - Vaccination plus Decarceration — Stopping Covid-19 in Jails and Prisons
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2100609
US - Report: Arizona To Begin Vaccinating Inmates In State Prisons
https://kjzz.org/content/1663760/report-arizona-begin-vaccinating-inmates-state-prisons
US (New Jersey) - Prison was devastated by COVID, but didn’t receive money to combat pandemic. N.J. lawmakers ask why.
Europe
England and Wales - Calls for mass prisoners’ vaccination rejected despite JCVI recommendation
Malta Plans To Electronically Tag Prisoners So They Can Serve Their Sentences From Home
Scotland - HMP and YOI Grampian healthcare staff 'tired and over-stretched'
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-56270374
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - ‘Inhuman’: Mandatory quarantine for prisoners to be extended into next year
News 3 March
Africa
Ghana - Officials push for relocation of ‘congested’ Kumasi Central Prison
Zimbabwe - Six Prison Guards Die From COVID-19
https://www.zimeye.net/2021/03/02/six-prison-guards-die-from-covid-19/
Zimbabwe - How Safe Are Prisoners When Prison Guards Are Dying From COVID-19?
https://www.zimeye.net/2021/03/02/how-safe-are-prisoners-when-prison-guards-are-dying-from-covid-19/
Americas
St Lucia - BCF Director says COVID outbreak caused by unrest at prison
http://www.loopslu.com/content/bcf-director-says-covid-outbreak-caused-unrest-prison
US - Reps. Kim and Trahan Lead Bipartisan Call for Department of Justice to Limit Spread of COVID-19 in Federal Prisons
US (North Carolina) - Waters muddied on early release after lawmakers told only non-violent offenders included
US (California) - In LA County Jails, Coronavirus Chaos Keeps People Locked Up Longer
https://theintercept.com/2021/03/02/covid-jails-los-angeles-court-dates/
US - COVID-19 Is Racing Through Vermont's Largest Prison
US - Public visits will soon resume at South Dakota prisons
Asia
Philippines - Elderly inmates included in vaccine priority list
https://www.rappler.com/nation/elderly-inmates-part-covid-19-vaccine-priority-list
Europe
Belgium - Covid-19 : l'armée appelée en appui à la prison de Namur
England and Wales - Covid outbreak at prison - as health chief says it is 'difficult setting' to reduce transmission
England and Wales - Hundreds of prisoners and staff revealed to have had coronavirus
https://www.eadt.co.uk/news/suffolk-prison-coronavirus-outbreaks-confirmed-7797578
France - Un nouveau cluster à Fleury-Mérogis souligne la situation sanitaire alarmante des prisons
News 2 March
Africa
South Africa - Prisoners give management an ultimatum
https://www.groundup.org.za/article/st-albans-prisoners-end-hunger-strike/
Zimbabwe - Vaccination goes to prisons
https://www.herald.co.zw/vaccination-goes-to-prisons/
Americas
US - California prison agency failed to notify employees exposed to COVID-19, regulator says
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article249550873.html
US - Alabama prisons rank eighth-deadliest due to COVID, yet no inmate vaccinations
Asia
Cambodia - Prisons have COVID-19 under control
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50819550/prisons-have-covid-19-under-control/
India - SC refuses to extend bail of prisoners freed due to Covid
Philippines - Group wants prisoners included in gov’t Covid-19 mass vaccination plan
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners’ COVID deaths ‘failings’: PPO report
https://insidetime.org/prisoners-covid-deaths-failings-ppo-report/
England and Wales - Two inmates dead and four in hospital after coronavirus outbreak at prison
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/coronavirus-prison-deaths-hmp-risley-b1810189.html
England and Wales - Walton inmate 'hasn't showered in days' as jail remains in lockdown after covid outbreak
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/walton-inmate-hasnt-showered-days-19939481
Italy - COVID: Jail guard cases up 26 to 557
News 27 February – 1 March
Africa
South Africa - Concern over prison Covid-19 stats
Americas
Canada - B.C. prisoners asked for masks for months, didn't receive PPE until they tested positive for COVID-19, mom says
US - How Prisoners Feel About Getting Vaccinated
https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2021/03/prison-vaccines-survey.html
US - Most states aren't prioritizing prisons for COVID vaccines
US - Vulnerable Inmates Left in Prison as Covid Rages
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/27/health/coronavirus-prisons-danbury.html
US - Michigan prison system's coronavirus variant cases more than triple
US (Michigan) - State fines prison $6,300 for failing COVID-19 safety rules
https://www.wxyz.com/news/state-fines-prison-6-300-for-failing-covid-19-safety-rules
Asia
Cambodia - Prison project on hold due to Covid
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/prison-project-hold-due-covid
India - How Covid pandemic hit the justice system
Sri Lanka - Health authorities raise concerns of COVID cluster in Jaffna prison
Europe
Covid-19: Belgium prisoners quarantined after virus outbreak
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-56222996
England and Wales - Prison outbreak 'difficult' to contain as Covid spreads through inmates in Birmingham
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/prison-outbreak-difficult-contain-covid-19926089
England and Wales - Huge Covid outbreak in prison as more than 120 inmates test positive
England and Wales - Lockdown at Walton jail after staff and prisoners test positive for covid
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/lockdown-walton-jail-after-staff-19921280
England and Wales - Covid outbreak at Leeds jail HMP Wealstun means prisoners kept in 'ridiculous' conditions
France - Prison. La surpopulation carcérale augmente encore avec 63 802 personnes détenues au 1er février
In a Greek Detention Center, an Official Uses TV to Teach Prisoners
Irish prisons face 'unprecedented' Covid-19 challenged after virus detected in Dublin and Laois jails
News 26 February
Americas
Canada - U of S researchers to look at effects of COVID-19 on Sask. jail inmate population
US (North Carolina) - NC to release 3,500 state prison inmates early in COVID lawsuit agreement
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article249516810.html
US - Why is COVID Spreading in Connecticut Prisons?
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/02/25/why-is-covid-spreading-in-connecticut-prisons/
Venezuela cell block overcrowding hits triple capacity, rights group warns
Asia
Bangladesh - Plan to vaccinate 15k convicts in jail in first phase
https://www.thedailystar.net/frontpage/news/plan-vaccinate-15k-convicts-jail-first-phase-2051185
Europe
England and Wales - Call for prison officers to get vaccine as two local prisons suspend taking new inmates
England and Wales - 'Significant' Covid outbreak at HMP Birmingham after 'large number' of cases reported
England and Wales - Covid: Rutland's infection spike 'due to HMP Stocken testing'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-56190666
England and Wales - Covid outbreak at Dorset prison affects more than 120 inmates
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-56199201
Ireland - 10% Of Inmates At Arbour Hill Prison Have Tested Positive For Covid 19.
https://kfmradio.com/news/26022021-1101/10-inmates-arbour-hill-prison-have-tested-positive-covid-19
Scotland - Special team sent in as jail staff fear ‘powder-keg’ Addiewell Prison is ‘about to blow’
Spain - Soaring scabies and Covid cases set off alarms in Catalan prisons
News 25 February
Africa
Uganda - Seven inmates at Busesa prison test positive for Covid-19
https://www.independent.co.ug/seven-inmates-at-busesa-prison-test-positive-for-covid-19/
Americas
Inmate COVID-19 cases at Sask. Pen account for nearly 30% of all cases in Canada's prisons during 2nd wave
Guyana - Inmates lodged 437 complaints of mistreatment in prison over the last 6 months
Jamaica - Female prisoner dies from COVID-19
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/female-prisoner-dies-from-covid-19_215674?profile=1373
US (California) - Lessons From a Prison Where COVID-19 ‘Spread Like Wildfire'
US (Oklahoma) - Tablets, video calls coming with costs for inmates, families
https://journalrecord.com/2021/02/24/tablets-video-calls-coming-with-costs-for-inmates-families/
US (Kentucky) - Families Push for In-Person Prison Visits To Be Restored
https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/la-east/news/2021/02/24/prison-visitation
Asia
Cambodia - Prisons bar visits as courts adjourn trials amid Covid
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/prisons-bar-visits-courts-adjourn-trials-amid-covid
Europe
England and Wales - Covid and prisons: ‘A tragic lost opportunity’
https://www.politics.co.uk/comment/2021/02/24/covid-and-prisons-a-tragic-lost-opportunity/
England and Wales - More than 100 prisoners have died of COVID-19
https://www.thejusticegap.com/prisoners-with-covid-symptoms-must-be-isolated-says-watchdog/
England and Wales - Vaccinate prisoners en masse, not police or teachers, JCVI tells ministers
England and Wales - Mass testing stepped up after huge coronavirus outbreak at Doncaster jail
News 24 February
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 hit federal prisons twice as hard in 2nd wave of pandemic, report says
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/csc-prisoners-covid19-second-wave-1.5923707
US - Virtual Art Classes, Outdoor Vocational Programs: How Jails and Prisons Are Evolving Amid the Pandemic
US - 40% of inmates in California’s corrections system have been vaccinated for COVID-19
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-02-23/la-me-california-prison-system-vaccination
US - Iowa DOC Reports 19th Prison Inmate Death From COVID-19
US (Connecticut) - Three weeks into COVID-19 vaccinations, DOC has vaccinated 10% of inmates, 40% of staff
Asia
Why India must include prisoners in its immunisation drive
Europe
England and Wales - Three Greater Manchester prisons are now dealing with Covid-19 outbreaks
England and Wales - The special measures being deployed to curb huge spike in coronavirus cases at East Yorkshire prison
News 23 February
Americas
Authorities in Barbados say prison now COVID-19 free
New studies to track prevalence of coronavirus antibodies in Canada's prison system amid surge in cases
Canada - Occupancy at B.C. jails down about 30 per cent compared to pre-pandemic times
US - Maryland Prison Allowed COVID-19 To Spread Rapidly, Lawsuit Alleges
https://dcist.com/story/21/02/22/md-lawsuit-prison-coronavirus-spread-chesapeake-detention-facility/
US (Hawaii) - Prison Oversight Commission Requests Analysis of Inmate Deaths
US - Ohio Prisons Start To Welcome Visitors Again
https://radio.wosu.org/post/ohio-prisons-start-welcome-visitors-again#stream/0
US - New Jersey Supreme Court Opens Door for Release of Pre-Trial Detainees
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=89e85f26-5a4f-49d2-9ed1-f7ea240be00a
US (California) - Judge Considers Pandemic Isolation Strategy of Denying Jail Inmates Exercise
Asia
India - What Covid-19 taught us about state of our prisons
India - Increase number of weekly video conference of prisoners with lawyers: plea in HC
Europe
England and Wales - It’s not too late to prevent more COVID deaths say prison campaigners
Strangeways prison hit by coronavirus outbreak, as UK inmate death toll tops 100
England and Wales - Covid outbreak at Peterborough prison with ‘up to 100 cases’
England and Wales - New system at HMP Lowdham Grange after 177 inmates affected by Covid outbreak
https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/nottingham-news/new-system-hmp-lowdham-grange-5030537
Ireland - Two prisoners and several staff test positive for COVID-19 at Arbour Hill Prison
https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/two-prisoners-several-staff-test-19893262
News 20 – 22 February
Africa
Nigeria - NAS tells FG to implement health protection regulations in prisons, military detention cells
Americas
Canada - HMP officials knew about COVID-19 exposure last week, NAPE president says
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/travis-pottle-hmp-covid-19-1.5919823
Canada - Former Saskatchewan Penitentiary inmate calls COVID-19 outbreak ‘inevitable’
https://globalnews.ca/news/7650451/saskatchewan-penitentiary-inmate-covid-19-outbreak-coronavirus/
US - Compassionate Release During COVID-19
https://www.theregreview.org/2021/02/22/downey-compassionate-release-during-covid-19/
US - Michigan prisons near ‘herd immunity,’ but coronavirus variant poses new threat
US (Pennsylvania) - COVID lays bare our treatment of inmates
US (Missouri) - St. Louis NAACP files complaint on lack of prisoner vaccines
Asia
India - Delhi: High Powered Committee recommends no more extension in interim bails
36 Israeli prisoners test positive for COVID-19
https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/36-israeli-prisoners-test-positive-for-covid-19-659729
Nepal - Inmates undergo suffering in crowded jail
https://english.khabarhub.com/2021/21/165078/
Sri Lanka - Prison COVID-19 cluster shrinks to 99 inmates
https://www.nation.lk/online/prison-covid-19-cluster-shrinks-to-99-inmates-58061.html
Europe
Belgium - Confinement strict à la prison de Namur après plus de 50 cas de Covid-19: "C’est du jamais vu"
England and Wales - Court delays allow violent offenders to avoid prison
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/feb/20/court-delays-allow-violent-offenders-to-avoid-prison
England and Wales - Suspects awaiting trial pleading guilty to escape 22-hour Covid prison lockdowns
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/suspects-awaiting-trial-pleading-guilty-23536529
England and Wales - Five wings of Forest Bank prison in lockdown due to COVID outbreak
Ireland - Covid-19 tests for prisoners and officers at Midlands Prison
Covid Scotland: Outbreaks in Scottish prisons as cases nearly double in a week
News 19 February
Americas
Canada - No books, visits, or showers: Pandemic prison conditions in Quebec spark human rights debate
https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/quebec-jails-covid-19-pandemic-human-rights/
Canada - 30 inmates infected in COVID-19 outbreak at Quebec minimum-security prison
Canada - Ontario confirms Indigenous jail inmates are a priority for Phase 1 of vaccine rollout
US - More than half of Virginia's prison population gets COVID-19 vaccination
US (Massachusetts) - Judge rejects latest request to release prisoners due to COVID-19
US (Illinois) - Ten People Died After Chicago Refused To Stop Jailing People During COVID-19 Pandemic
US - Despite a raging pandemic and bail reform efforts, thousands of West Virginians remain jailed, awaiting their day in court
Asia
Bangladesh - ‘Virtual courts have significantly reduced overcrowding in jails’
Philippines - Red Cross supports BJMP’s visiting program
https://manilastandard.net/mobile/article/347386
Europe
Belgium - La prison de Namur placée en confinement strict
England and Wales - New figures highlight scale of Exeter Prison Covid outbreak
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/new-figures-highlight-scale-exeter-5018032
England and Wales - Covid social distancing sensors given to Dovegate prison staff after outbreak
https://www.staffordshire-live.co.uk/news/covid-social-distancing-sensors-given-5017258
Scotland - Coronavirus outbreak confirmed at West Lothian jail as prisoners locked down
Turkey begins vaccinating prisoners following criticism
https://ahvalnews.com/covid-19/turkey-begins-vaccinating-prisoners-following-criticism
News 18 February
Americas
Canada - ‘I couldn’t really breathe’: Former inmate on COVID-19 at federal prison
US - ACLU: Ohio Legislature Not Addressing COVID-19 'Human Rights Crisis' in Prisons
US (Pennsylvania) - Fighting COVID-19 called top Pa. prisons priority
US - Delaware DOC Using New Technology to Prevent Spread of COVID-19 in State Prisons
US (Hawaii) - Proposal Would Make Information on Inmate Deaths Public
https://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/post/proposal-would-make-information-inmate-deaths-public#stream/0
Asia
Malaysia - Prison Inmate Caught Covid-19 After Waiting Six Months For Bail: Lawyer
Europe
England and Wales - Mass Covid vaccination plan for all prisoners and staff
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/mass-covid-vaccination-plan-for-all-prisoners-and-staff-dnsqvt70z
England and Wales - Covid-19 outbreak confirmed at 700-inmate prison, officials confirm
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/covid-19-outbreak-confirmed-700-5013699
England and Wales - Staff at Doncaster prison use new devices to help with social distancing during pandemic
England and Wales - Medi-tech firm helps ease pressure on NHS by keeping prisoners out of hospital
https://www.business-live.co.uk/technology/medi-tech-firm-helps-ease-19857776
Ireland - Three prisoners test positive for Covid-19 at Midlands Prison
https://www.thejournal.ie/covid-prisoners-midlands-prison-5357739-Feb2021/
Northern Ireland - Governor among six staff at young offenders’ centre to test positive for Covid
News 17 February
Africa
Lesotho: Prisons' Covid-19 Nightmare
https://allafrica.com/stories/202102170472.html
Americas
Canada - Bordeaux and three other Quebec jails hit with COVID-19 wave
Jamaica - COVID concern in prisons
US - A brief guide to who gets to decide which prisoners are released early
US - Illinois' prison population the lowest it's been in 3 decades
https://newschannel20.com/news/local/illinois-prison-population-the-lowest-its-been-in-3-decades
US (North Carolina) - Prison vaccination data leaves unanswered questions
https://carolinapublicpress.org/42493/prison-vaccination-data-leaves-unanswered-questions/
US (Massachusetts) - Lawsuit On COVID Prison Releases Shows Many DOC Workers Refusing Vaccine
https://www.wbur.org/news/2021/02/17/lawsuit-covid-prison-releases-shows-doc-workers-vaccine
Asia
India - Haryana: Prisoners released on parole in wake of COVID-19 to be sent back to jail
India - Delhi HC Sends Plea Seeking COVID-19 Vaccine For Jail Staff, Prisoners To Division Bench
Malaysia - Prisons’ Covid-19 SOPs aren’t working, Putrajaya told
Europe
England and Wales - Inmates' families blast 'inhumane conditions' at Exeter Prison
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/inmates-families-blast-inhumane-conditions-5006877
Italy - COVID: Lazio jails to get jab in mid-March
Coronavirus Scotland: Over 1,200 cons self-isolating after surge in prison cases
News 16 February
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 underscores the many failures of imprisonment
https://www.halifaxexaminer.ca/featured/covid-19-underscores-the-many-failures-of-imprisonment/
Canada - Bordeaux prison inmates hold hunger strike over confinement measures
US - Solitary Confinement May Worsen Covid-19 Transmission in Prisons
https://undark.org/2021/02/15/solitary-confinement-covid-19/
US - Falling inmate numbers inspire push for more NYS prison closures
Asia
Malaysia - Hold online appeal hearings for prisoners, says Bar
Europe
England and Wales - Prison officers 'lambs to slaughter' as prison Covid infections quadruple
https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/prison-officers-lambs-to-slaughter-as-prison-covid-infections-quadruple/
England and Wales - Covid-19 outbreak confirmed at HMP Moorlands as 80 prisoners and staff test positive
France - Quand Le Covid-19 Perturbe La Distribution De Vêtements En Prison
Northern Ireland - Non-vulnerable jail staff and prisoners 'must also get jabs'
Exclusive: Scottish inmates not coronavirus tested before prison transfers
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/politics/scottish-politics/2903350/coronavirus-inmates/
Coronavirus Scotland: Almost 260 people infected at Kilmarnock jail
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/ayrshire/coronavirus-scotland-more-270-people-23505109
News 13-15 February
Africa
South Africa - Prisoners call on watchdog to exercise stronger oversight of their treatment by warders
Americas
Canada - Port Coquitlam jail outbreak leads to 26 cases of COVID-19
US - Arizona’s prison population declines by 11% during pandemic
https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/arizonas-prison-population-declines-by-11-during-pandemic1
US (Illinois) - Despite federal and state guidance to reduce jail populations, few inmates convicted of nonviolent crimes have been released early
US (Hawaii) - Relatives of Halawa inmates who died of COVID criticize prison officials
US - ‘He shouldn’t have had to die’: COVID-19 infects half of Wisconsin inmates, five times the overall state rate
Asia
India - Prisoners on parole due to Covid-19 to surrender from Feb 17
India - Haryana High Powered Committee Orders Re-admission Of 2,580 Convicts Released Earlier
Malaysia - Citing prison overcrowding, group urges reform to rehabilitate minor drug users
Pakistan - Prisoners and the pandemic
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2284106/prisoners-the-pandemic
Saudi Arabia - COVID-19: Safety of prisoners, detainees stressed
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1808846/saudi-arabia
Sri Lanka - Vaccination of over 5,000 prison officers to begin tomorrow
https://www.nation.lk/online/vaccination-of-over-5-000-prison-officers-to-begin-tomorrow-55698.html
Europe
England and Wales - One in eight prisoners in England and Wales have had Covid
England and Wales - Locked up for 22 hours a day: Women’s prisons during the pandemic
England and Wales - Authorities tackle Covid outbreak at HMP Erlestoke
https://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/news/19087807.authorities-tackle-covid-outbreak-hmp-erlestoke/
England and Wales - How Covid spread through Norwich prison
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/crime/how-coronavirus-spread-through-norwich-prison-7321400
England and Wales - Covid-19: HMP Littlehey 'missed opportunities' in first reported inmate virus death
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-56027105
Scotland - Covid-19 outbreak confirmed at Dumfries prison
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/covid-19-outbreak-confirmed-dumfries-23489501
Scotland - Covid outbreak in Addiewell prison leads to spike in cases
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - Crime decline raises question mark over state’s prison plans
News 12 February
Africa
Benin - Covid-19 Et Interdiction D’accès Aux Prisons: Le Sort Des Détenus Mineurs Inquiète Les Osc
Zambia - Prisons record 100 Covid positive cases among inmates, officers
Americas
Canada - Broken telephone: How Ontario’s prison-phone system leaves inmates disconnected
Canada - Manitoba Justice stops planned vaccinations for Brandon Correctional Centre inmates
Canada - COVID-19 dans les prisons : une situation très préoccupante
US - Study: Jail Populations Dropped During Pandemic Without Rise In Violent Crime
US - Parolees Fill New York Prisons to Pre-COVID Numbers
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/02/11/parolees-fill-new-york-prisons-to-pre-covid-numbers/
US - Mental health crisis feared in Colorado jails and prisons due to COVID-19 lockdowns
US (Connecticut) - Blame for coronavirus spread in prisons belongs to guards who don’t wear masks
US (North Carolina) - Prisons contribute to racial imbalance in COVID-19 impact in NC
US (California) - At San Quentin, the Response to COVID-19 Brings More Isolation and Suffering to People with Mental Illness
US (Maryland) - Excess Covid Cases Just Latest Of Major Systemic Problems In Md. Prisons
Asia
ICRC supports Cambodia’s prison reform
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50813354/icrc-supports-cambodias-prison-reform/
India - SC refuses to entertain plea raising issue of overcrowding in jails
Japan - Yokohama prison inmate's letter exposes flaws that led to large coronavirus cluster
https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20210212/p2a/00m/0na/044000c
Myanmar remits sentences of over 23,000 prisoners amid protests
Europe
England and Wales - Covid: HMP Bullingdon inmate dies following virus outbreak
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-56027169
England and Wales - Life in HMP Huntercombe for prisoners in lockdown
https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/19084452.life-hmp-huntercombe-prisoners-lockdown/
England and Wales - Pentonville Prison virus rules ‘are damaging inmates’
http://islingtontribune.com/article/pentonville-prison-virus-rules-are-damaging-inmates
Ireland - Cluster Of Covid-19 Cases Confirmed At Midlands Prison
News 11 February
Africa
Botswana: Covid-19 Cases At Molepolole Prison Impact On Trial
https://allafrica.com/stories/202102110199.html
Zimbabwe - ZPCS seeks decongesting prisons
https://www.herald.co.zw/zpcs-seeks-decongesting-prisons/
Americas
Barbados - Only two positive cases at the prison
https://www.nationnews.com/2021/02/10/two-positive-cases-prison/
Canada - Correctional authorities falling short on transparency in reporting COVID-19 data
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak at youth correctional facility highlights challenges for kids
https://globalnews.ca/news/7632981/drumming-hill-youth-correctional-centre-coronavirus-outbreak/
Canada - Lockdowns over at 2 federal prisons in Fraser Valley
https://bc.ctvnews.ca/lockdowns-over-at-2-federal-prisons-in-fraser-valley-1.5303648
Canada - Thunder Bay health unit takes 'aggressive' action to control inmate discharges. But some ask why not sooner?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/tbay-inmate-class-order-1.5909487
US (Connecticut) - State to close three prisons as advocates call for reinvestment in marginalized communities
US - New York City Has People On Parole In Jails At Rates Not Seen Since The Early Pandemic
https://theappeal.org/new-york-city-jails-highest-number-technical-parole-violations-pandemic/
US -- Highly contagious COVID-19 strain found at Michigan prison
US - More deaths hit NY State prisons, sparking a push for a vaccination distribution plan
Asia
India - Visitation for lawyers and family members to resume in Maharashtra prisons
India - PIL in Delhi High Court seeks vaccination of all prisoners out on bail for COVID-19
India - COVID-19: Plea in HC to extend emergency parole of aged and ailing prisoners
Europe
England and Wales - What happens to prisoners in a pandemic?
England and Wales - Number of prisoners in England and Wales on suicide watch rises steeply
England and Wales - 'I dread the phone call’: families' fears for loved ones in prison
England and Wales - Covid: 100 Winchester Prison inmates and staff test positive
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-56009248
England and Wales - Prison officer dies amid huge coronavirus outbreak at Doncaster jail
England and Wales - Staff test positive for Coronavirus at Bullingdon Prison
https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/19080585.staff-test-positive-coronavirus-bullingdon-prison/
Irish Prison Service insists it is effectively dealing with potential crowding issues
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/irish-prison-service-insists-effectively-23482085
News 10 February
Americas
A Covid Uprising in America’s Jails
https://newrepublic.com/article/161315/covid-incarceration-st-louis-prison-protest
US - 'No quick fix' for Kentucky's prisons and jails hit hard by the coronavirus
US - North Carolina Claims Prisoners Who Died of COVID Didn't Die of COVID
US - Half of California prison employees are reluctant to get COVID vaccine, officials say
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article249123895.html
US (California) - Los Angeles voters support releasing people as jail population rises amid COVID surge
https://theappeal.org/the-lab/polling-memos/la-voters-support-release-jails-covid-surge/
US (Colorado) - Advocates Call For Reform As ‘People Are Needlessly Dying In Prison’ During The Pandemic
https://www.cpr.org/2021/02/09/colorado-dept-of-corrections-special-needs-parole-reforms/
US (Arizona) - Bill Would Allow Prison Releases During Public Health Emergencies
https://kjzz.org/content/1657784/bill-would-allow-prison-releases-during-public-health-emergencies
US - Oregon prisons get 5,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine
https://www.opb.org/article/2021/02/09/oregon-inmates-prisons-covid-19-vaccines/
US - Alabama moving ahead with first execution in COVID-19 pandemic
Asia
Malaysia - Bintulu MP: 700 under quarantine after prison warden contracts Covid-19
Malaysia - CNY: Face-to-face meetings with prison inmates not allowed, according to Prisons Dept
Europe
England and Wales - Virus outbreak at prison as 'staff and inmates' test positive
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/virus-outbreak-prison-staff-inmates-19802710
England and Wales - Winchester Prison is cause of coronavirus hotspot
https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/19076914.winchester-prison-cause-coronavirus-hotspot/
England and Wales - Bedford Prison inmates self-harmed hundreds of times in a year
Scotland - Kilmarnock prison wing locked down after major Covid outbreak sees 38 people test positive for deadly virus
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/ayrshire/kilmarnock-prison-wing-locked-down-23474633
News 9 February
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak declared at Sarnia Jail after 2 inmates test positive
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/covid-19-outbreak-declared-sarnia-224010129.html
'A death sentence': US prisons could receive Covid vaccines last despite being hotspots
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/feb/09/us-jails-prisons-covid-vaccines
US (Pennsylvania) - PA lawmakers urge Gov. Wolf to reprieve at-risk inmates as COVID-19 prison deaths spike
US - Iowa parole board releases fewer offenders in fiscal 2020, despite COVID-19
US (California) - “They Want to Do Me In”: The Prisoner Who Fought COVID Overcrowding
https://filtermag.org/prisoner-covid-overcrowding-california/
Asia
Afghanistan: Refurbished prison clinic smoothens patient flow
Europe
England and Wales - Covid: HMP Stocken outbreak 'behind Rutland's surge'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-55988076
Styal Prison sees most self-harm among inmates in England and Wales
England and Wales - Aylesbury Prison inmates self-harmed more than 100 times in a year
News 6 – 8 February
Africa
Ghana - Prisons Service calls for increment in prisoners’ feeding allowance
Southern Africa - ‘Free lockdown violators, decongest prisons’
https://southerntimesafrica.com/site/news/free-lockdown-violators-decongest-prisons
Americas
Canada - Inmates in lockdown as COVID-19 cases surge at Bordeaux Jail in Montreal
Canada - Maximum-security prison in Fraser Valley on partial lockdown
https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/324301/Maximum-security-prison-in-Fraser-Valley-on-partial-lockdown
US - A Last-Minute Trump Move Threatens to Send Released Prisoners Back to Prison After the Pandemic
https://www.motherjones.com/crime-justice/2021/02/federal-prison-early-release-pandemic-trump/
US - Letting People Out o