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 pubished a report on Health Remanded to Custody: The Future of the Prison Health Care System in Israel which can be found here
Note: This page will no longer be updated. To see news articles from 1 December onwards please click here
News 28 – 30 November
Africa
South Africa - Probe into inmates’ quarantine after contact with warders who died of Covid
Americas
Canada - Prison visits pose COVID-19 risk: Union
Canada - NDP, advocate call for province to release remanded offenders following COVID-19 jail outbreak
Canada - Nunavut judges disagree on how to sentence offenders during pandemic
US - Trying to Keep Covid-19 at Bay in Nation’s Prisons Presents a Challenge
US - COVID-19 continues to roil California prisons, jails as officials face new criticism
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-11-29/coronavirus-outbreaks-california-state-prisons
US - ‘It was hell’: Inside an Oklahoma prison coronavirus outbreak
US (Alabama) - Prisons to begin video visitation service
https://apnews.com/article/alabama-coronavirus-pandemic-prisons-134e179d12761741bc9f955a96334874
US (Connecticut) - CT hasn’t commuted a single prisoner’s sentence since before the pandemic. Advocates say it’s time to change.
Asia
Philippines - COVID-19 outbreak in Davao City Jail worsens; total cases at 76
Sri Lanka coronavirus prison riot leaves eight dead, over 50 wounded
https://news.yahoo.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-prison-riot-072320801.html
Sri Lanka- Prison coronavirus cluster crosses the 1000 mark
https://menafn.com/1101204307/Sri-Lanka-Prison-coronavirus-cluster-crosses-the-1000-mark
Sri Lanka to pardon 606 prisoners amid COVID-19
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-11/30/c_139553047.htm
Europe
England and Wales - Judge's decision to free teenager due to Covid backlog overruled
England and Wales - 100 positive Covid test results in a single day at Birmingham Prison, inmate claims
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/black-country/100-positive-covid-test-results-19364942
France - À la prison de Longuenesse, 182 personnes testées au Covid en un jour, 7 positives
News 27 November
Americas
Canada - 72 new coronavirus cases reported at Saskatoon Correctional Centre
https://globalnews.ca/news/7486563/coronavirus-saskatoon-correctional-centre-covid-19/
US - COVID-19 Infections On The Rise In Maryland’s Prisons
https://wtop.com/maryland/2020/11/covid-19-infections-on-the-rise-in-marylands-prisons/
US - Hundreds of Inmates Riot at Arizona Prison, Officers Respond With 'Rubber Bullets and Pepper Spray'
https://www.newsweek.com/riot-arizona-prison-rubber-bullets-pepper-spray-1550527
Asia
India - 2,256 prisoners released on parole in UP amid Covid-19 pandemic asked to return to jail
COVID-19 cases in Sri Lankan prisons continue to rise
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/11/27/covid-19-cases-in-sri-lankan-prisons-continue-to-rise/
Europe
France - Dans les prisons, ce qui est permis pendant le confinement... et ce qui ne l’est pas
France - Covid-19. Coulaines : un quartier de la prison à l’isolement
News 26 November
Africa
Algeria - Le Ministère De Le Justice Dévoile Le Bilen Coronavirus Dans Les Prisons
https://www.algerie360.com/20201125-coronavirus-covid19-algerie-prison-ministere-justice-dz/
Rwanda Announces ‘Out Of Court Mediation’ To Reduce Court Cases, Prison Congestion
Zimbabwe - Covid-19 Threatens Overpopulated Chikurubi Female Prison
https://www.zimdaily.com/covid-19-threatens-overpopulated-chikurubi-female-prison/
Americas
As Covid Roars Through U.S. Jails, Korea May Provide a Template
US - 3 North Carolina Prisons Close After State Reportedly Maxes Out Hospital Space For Inmates
US - NY correctional officers union urges state to prevent spread of COVID-19 in prisons
US - Coronavirus spreads inside more Delaware prisons
https://whyy.org/articles/coronavirus-spreads-inside-more-delaware-prisons/
US (Florida) - Prison visitation is back in time for Thanksgiving. But no young kids, no food, no contact
https://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/investigations/article247378029.html
Asia
India - COVID Third Wave Is Here. Why Are Delhi Jails Still Overcrowded?
Iran - Prison Officials’ Cover-up Leads To the Death of at Least Seven Prisoners in Evin Prison Due To COVID-19
Pakistan - COVID-19 spike: Isolation wards set up in Karachi Central Jail again
https://arynews.tv/en/karachi-central-jail-covid-19-isolation-wards/
Europe
Italy - COVID: 826 prison inmates, 1042 warders positive - Bonafede
News 25 November
Africa
Lesotho - Prisons to grow own food as hunger bites
https://menafn.com/1101179436/Lesotho-Prisons-to-grow-own-food-as-hunger-bites
Americas
Canada - Mass solitary confinement in prisons is illegal, even in a pandemic
Canada - Growing alarm among Saskatoon jail inmates as COVID-19 cases emerge, inmate says
US (Florida) - Prison population drops during pandemic
https://cbs12.com/news/local/prison-population-drops-during-pandemic
US (California) - Major Covid Outbreak Reported At Prison In Downtown Los Angeles
US - Eleven Wisconsin prisoners are dead from COVID-19. Protesters say Gov. Tony Evers should use clemency to reduce prison populations.
US (Iowa) - Union head demands freeze on prisoner transfers, admissions to stem coronavirus
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Durham taking 'precautionary measures' after number of positive Covid cases
England and Wales - HMP Bristol being 'closely monitored' after coronavirus cases
https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/hmp-bristol-being-closely-monitored-4733239
Turkey - Number of sick inmates considerably higher than revealed by Ministry of Justice: İHD
News 24 November
Africa
Zimbabwe - Inmate tells High Court of major health crisis at Chikurubi prison
Americas
Canada - Jail phone system appears to violate provincial privacy rights policy
Trinidad & Tobago - 'Every prison inmate should be tested'
US - Federal prisons to prioritize staff to receive virus vaccine
https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-prisons-85361fcf7cda33c7b6afb5ad8d2df8a2
US - Union calls for Iowa prisons to stop admissions amid COVID-19 outbreaks
https://kwwl.com/2020/11/23/union-calls-for-iowa-prisons-to-stop-admissions-amid-covid-19-outbreaks/
US (Illinois) - With COVID-19 surging anew, alarms sound again for Cook County’s incarcerated
US (California) - As virus spreads among federal inmates in downtown L.A., court hearings and visitations are halted
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-11-23/covid-outbreak-la-prison
US - Fourth Minnesota prisoner dies of COVID-19 complications
https://www.startribune.com/fourth-minnesota-prisoner-dies-of-covid-19-complications/573171061/
Asia
Sri Lanka - COVID-19 cases in prisons rises to 717; 35 new cases reported on Tuesday
Europe
Switzerland - Une prison entière en quarantaine
https://www.tdg.ch/une-prison-entiere-en-quarantaine-226407276656
News 21 – 23 November
Africa
South Africa - Life behind bars is about survival of the sharpest
Americas
Canada - Prison de New Carlisle : 75 % des détenus touchés par la COVID-19
https://ici.radio-canada.ca/nouvelle/1751109/prison-detention-new-carlisle-covid-coronavirus-detenus
Trinidad & Tobago - 126 new COVID-19 positive cases, most from prison system
US - America Is Letting the Coronavirus Rage Through Prisons
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/21/opinion/sunday/coronavirus-prisons-jails.html
US - Video visits rolling out at five California state prisons
US - New COVID-19 virus cases in Michigan's prisons hit all-time high
US - More than 17,000 Florida prison inmates have had COVID-19
US (Guam) - More than a third of prison population has tested positive for COVID-19
US - Handling of COVID-19 in Nevada prisons and jails ‘grossly inadequate’
https://lasvegassun.com/news/2020/nov/21/covid-19-in-nevadas-prisons-and-jails/
Asia
Bahrain says some detainees contracted COVID-19
Malaysia - Courts to impose more fines to reduce prison population
Pakistan - Prisoners in a pandemic
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/746626-prisoners-in-a-pandemic
COVID-19 cases from Sri Lankan prisons rise to 652
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/11/22/covid-19-cases-from-sri-lankan-prisons-rise-to-652/
Sri Lanka - Cases of inmates remanded over drug charges to be expedited
http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=69352
Europe
England and Wales - Dartmoor prison: Attacks on staff double since lockdown
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-55012705
England and Wales - How life in Norfolk’s prisons has changed during coronavirus crisis
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/health/life-in-norfolk-prisons-during-coronavirus-crisis-1-6938247
Covid case at Jersey prison forces 28 officers to isolate
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-jersey-55016787
Oceania
Australia - Tablet computers have kept prisoners in touch with family during COVID-19
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-11-21/tablet-computers-to-prisoners-during-covid-19/12895870
News 20 November
Africa
Covid-19: 178 Rwanda prisoners test positive in last seven months
Americas
Canada - New COVID-19 outbreak confirmed at B.C. prison hit hardest by virus in April
https://globalnews.ca/news/7472931/new-outbreak-mission-institution/
Canada - Two Saskatoon jail staff test positive for COVID-19; province working to supply masks to all inmates
US - COVID-19 spiking among Nevada's prison population, but are facilities taking precautions?
US (Louisiana) - DOC scraps plans to allow family visitation at prisons due to rising COVID-19 cases
US - Wisconsin’s Prisons Approaching 7,500 COVID-19 Cases
https://www.wortfm.org/wisconsins-prisons-approaching-7500-covid-19-cases/
US (Florida) - Attorney says he cannot see client due to severity of COVID-19 Citrus County jail
US - Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan Signs Order Allowing Early Release Of 1,200 Inmates
https://dcist.com/story/20/11/19/maryland-gov-order-early-release-inmates-pandemic/
Asia
India - Seven inmates at Mandoli women’s prison test positive for Covid-19
Coronavirus Is Rampant In Lebanon’s Most Crowded Prison
https://www.the961.com/coronavirus-in-lebanons-prison/
Philippines - Inmates face quarantine before prison transfer
https://www.panaynews.net/inmates-face-quarantine-before-prison-transfer/
Europe
England and Wales - Video calls to be set up for prisoners at HMP Forest Bank
Turkey - ‘49 prisoners lost their lives this year’
https://bianet.org/english/human-rights/234697-49-prisoners-lost-their-lives-this-year
News 19 November
Africa
Rwanda: New Measures to Tackle Covid-19 Spread in Jails
https://allafrica.com/stories/202011190118.html
Americas
Canada - Coronavirus: Outbreak of COVID-19 cases at Stony Mountain Institution growing
https://globalnews.ca/news/7470786/coronavirus-outbreak-stony-mountain-institution-growing/
Guyana - 65 prisoners released to reduce overcrowding as part of COVID measures
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison officers warn of explosive situation at MSP
US - Is coronavirus the new death penalty in America’s prisons?
https://www.legalexaminer.com/crime/is-coronavirus-the-new-death-penalty-in-americas-prisons/
US - (Washington State) - COVID-19 delays justice for King County inmates who need interpreters
https://crosscut.com/news/2020/11/covid-19-delays-justice-king-county-inmates-who-need-interpreters
US - Coronavirus outbreak at Alaska’s largest prison grows to 204
US - COVID-19 running wild in Minnesota prisons
https://spokesman-recorder.com/2020/11/18/covid-19-running-wild-in-minnesota-prisons/
US (South Carolina) - Dozens of National Guard soldiers step in to help SC prisons during COVID-19 pandemic
US (Vermont) - Virtual Visits In Prison: Incarcerated Parents Support Their Children From A Distance
US (Connecticut) - Eighth person in state prison dies from COVID as advocates demand releases
US (Arizona) - Federal prison 'hot spot' contributes to COVID-19 surge across Pima County
US - COVID-19 cases more than double in Michigan prisons in two weeks
https://www.michiganradio.org/post/covid-19-cases-more-double-michigan-prisons-two-weeks
Asia
India - Prison authorities urge Orissa high court to prevent crowding of jails
Indonesia - COVID-19: ICRC expanding its assistance to Papua
https://reliefweb.int/report/indonesia/covid-19-icrc-expanding-its-assistance-papua
Lebanon - 549 personnes contaminées pour la seule prison de Roumieh
https://libnanews.com/liban-coronavirus-549-personnes-contaminees-pour-la-seule-prison-de-roumieh/
Sri Lanka - Covid-related unrest in Prisons grow as escaping inmate in Kandy is shot dead
Committee to probe recent events reported from Sri Lankan prisons
Europe
Belgium - Pas de bol d’air pour les prisons: les congés pénitentiaires sont supprimés jusque fin mars 2021
Cyprus - Early release for 143 prison inmates
https://www.financialmirror.com/2020/11/18/early-release-for-143-prison-inmates/
England and Wales - More than 110 staff at Cardiff Prison are off work because of coronavirus
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/cardiff-prison-coronavirus-covid-rate-19303561
England and Wales - 'Stark digital divide' hampers young offenders' education and support
News 18 November
Africa
Rwanda's prisons hit hard by Covid-19
https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/covid-19-rwanda-prisons-3032238
Tunisia - Un troisième décès lié au Covid-19 au sein des prisons tunisiennes
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison Service addresses video allegedly showing sick prisoners
https://www.looptt.com/content/prison-service-addresses-video-allegedly-showing-sick-prisoners
U.S. Justice Dept watchdog: Louisiana prison officials botched COVID-19 pandemic
US - 1,200 Colorado Inmates Were Rarely Given Masks— And Then Most of Them Tested Positive for Coronavirus
US - About 20 COVID cases discovered at Delaware’s largest prison
https://wtop.com/national/2020/11/about-20-covid-cases-discovered-at-delawares-largest-prison/
Asia
India - Haryana Govt Extends Bail, Parole Time of Prisoners Released During Covid-19 Pandemic Till Dec 31
https://in.news.yahoo.com/haryana-govt-extends-bail-parole-162500783.html
Malaysia - Lockdown extended in prisons and quarters in Penang, Sabah
https://www.themalaysianinsight.com/s/285431
Europe
France - Covid-19 : la contrôleure générale inquiète sur les conditions sanitaires en prison
Northern Ireland - Dissident inmates may face court via video-link on jail landing
Right violations increase in Turkish prisons as inmates forced to quarantine for months in unsanitary cells
Oceania
Australia - An inmate told his mother he was locked his cell for 23 hours a day after riot
New Zealand - Emails kept from prison inmates due to 'arbitrary' character limit
News 17 November
Americas
Canada - Inmate letter raises concern about measures to prevent COVID-19 at Saskatoon jail
https://thestarphoenix.com/news/local-news/scc-letter
Trinidad & Tobago - Human rights group warns: Prison covid19 outbreak threat to inmates, public
US - Supreme Court denies request from geriatric prisoners seeking Covid relief
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/11/16/politics/supreme-court-texas-covid-19/index.html
US - Alabama prison system spends $10 million on decontamination equipment
US (Wisconsin) - Suicide Crisis In Prisons Compounded By Covid-19, Lack Of Health Care
US (Michigan) - Families protest outside prison as COVID-19 surges inside
US - As COVID-19 races through Kentucky’s prisons, one in five inmates has been infected
https://www.kentucky.com/news/coronavirus/article247223324.html
Asia
India - Kerala High Court seeks State response on preparedness to receive prisoners returning from parole amid COVID-19
https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/kerala-high-court-parole-of-prisoners-released-covid-19
1.5% of the total prison population in Sri Lanka exposed to COVID-19
Europe
England and Wales - Spice letters sent to Belmarsh prisoners rises in lockdown
https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/18875900.spice-letters-sent-belmarsh-prisoners-rises-lockdown/
Estonia prisons coronavirus cases now number over 70
https://news.err.ee/1159698/estonia-prisons-coronavirus-cases-now-number-over-70
France - Covid-19. La contrôleure des prisons demande des libérations anticipées de détenus en fin de peine
Ireland - Six officers in Limerick Prison test positive for Covid-19
News 14 – 16 November
Africa
COVID-19:One death recorded in Rwanda prisons
https://africa.cgtn.com/2020/11/14/covid-19one-death-recorded-in-rwanda-prisons/
Rwanda - Covid-19: 30 more infections in Muhanga Prison
https://www.newtimes.co.rw/covid-19/covid-19-30-more-infections-muhanga-prison
South Africa - Correctional Services Dept Eyes Master Plan To Deal With Prison Overcrowding
Tunisia-Jendouba: Three coronavirus infections at Bulla Regia prison
Americas
Canada - New cases linked to site of B.C.’s largest prison COVID-19 outbreak
Canada - Saskatoon Correctional Centre inmates say not enough being done to protect them against COVID-19
Crowded prisons in El Salvador raise Human Right Violation concerns
Trinidad & Tobago - 68 more prisoners test positive for COVID-19
http://www.looptt.com/content/68-prisoners-test-positive-covid-19-maximum-security-prison
US - Report finds over 100 rebellions in jails and prisons over COVID conditions
US (Illinois) - 4 IL federal prisons among nation's 20 most infected with COVID-19
https://abc7chicago.com/illinois-covid-federal-prisons-19-cases/7935674/
US - New COVID-19 cases in Iowa prisons among highest in the nation this week
US - Colorado prison system settles lawsuit over COVID-19 protections as 5th inmate dies from virus
https://www.denverpost.com/2020/11/13/colorado-prison-coronavirus-death-settlement/
US - Texas prisoners paid $3 an hour to load bodies into overflow coronavirus morgues
US - Virus cases rising in New Mexico prisons
Asia
Sri Lanka - COVID-19 cases in prisons top 300
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/11/14/covid-19-cases-in-prisons-top-300/
Sri Lanka - Separate facilities to treat COVID-19 infected prisoners
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/11/16/separate-facilities-to-treat-covid-19-infected-prisoners/
Tajikistan Lifts Ban On Prison Visits By Inmates' Relatives
https://www.rferl.org/a/tajikistan-lifts-ban-on-prison-visits-by-inmates-relatives/30952729.html
Europe
England and Wales - Covid: More prison cases in October than previous seven months
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-54935540
England and Wales - Dartmoor Prison confirms a number of Covid-19 cases
England and Wales - Covid-19: 'My pandemic work with dangerous prison leavers'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-54795465
England and Wales - Teens facing attempted murder charge locked up for three months without access to lawyers
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/teens-locked-up-months-without-lawyers-b71497.html
Greece - Inmate dies from Covid-19 as infections in Diavata prison climb to 108
Latvia - Quarantine declared in Riga Central Prison; strict restrictions imposed
https://bnn-news.com/quarantine-declared-in-riga-central-prison-strict-restrictions-imposed-218896
Portugal - Lisbon prison has at least 81 inmates, eight staff with coronavirus
Portugal - No new exceptional regime for the release of prisoners
Scotland - Covid spread fears as prison staff speak out on 'Dickensian' working conditions
Covid Scotland: Over 100 Barlinnie prisoners test positive for coronavirus
Prison bosses spend £2.7million on mobile phones for every inmate in Scotland
https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/scottish-news/6286332/scottish-prison-mobile-phones-covid/
Oceania
Australia - NSW prisons to resume in-person visits
https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/7014690/nsw-prisons-to-resume-in-person-visits/?cs=7
News 13 November
Americas
St Kitts & Nevis - HMP has strict measures to avoid COVID-19 outbreak
https://www.thestkittsnevisobserver.com/hmp-has-strict-measures-to-avoid-covid-19-outbreak/
Trinidad & Tobago - Dennis: Covid19 prison outbreak fast-tracked relocation
https://newsday.co.tt/2020/11/13/dennis-covid19-prison-outbreak-fast-tracked-relocation/
US - Four Steps to Halting COVID-19 Behind Bars: Report
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/11/12/four-steps-to-halting-covid-19-behind-bars-report/
US - Federal Prisons Keep Turning Into COVID Nightmares: 'Everyone Looks Like Death'
US - 80 percent of those who died of Covid-19 in Texas county jails were never convicted of a crime
US (New Jersey) - Another 1,200 inmates will be released next month. And reentry is still broken
US - In NYC Federal Jail, Medical Requests Go Unanswered for Months During Pandemic
https://filtermag.org/nyc-jail-medical-pandemic/
US (Guam) - DOC considers releasing eligible inmates due to COVID-19 cases
Asia
535 COVID-19 Cases Reported in Lebanon’s Prisons
Malaysia - Teresa Kok Demands Prison Reform To Curb Covid-19 Spread
Malaysia - Prisons Dept bars visitations during Deepavali; inmates allowed to Skype family
Sri Lanka - Colombo Prison officers’ leave canceled, three inmates at Boosa prison infected with COVID-19
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20B/Nov13_1605245522CH.php
Europe
Scotland - Barlinnie jail slammed as 'reservoir of infection' as inmates crammed into portakabin amid Covid19 outbreak
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/barlinnie-jail-slammed-reservoir-infection-22988267
News 12 November
Africa
Rwanda reports 27 new COVID-19 cases in capital city's prison
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-11/12/c_139510811.htm
Americas
Canada - Advocate calls prison conditions ‘atrocious’ as inmates face lockdowns amid second wave of COVID-19
Canada - Headingley inmate put in solitary confinement after positive COVID test being 'punished' for illness: mother
Trinidad & Tobago - COVID tests for 200 inmates stalled
https://guardian.co.tt/news/covid-tests-for-200-inmates-stalled-6.2.1249944.0686442a67
US - Prisons and jails have become a ‘public health threat’ during the pandemic, advocates say
US (North Carolina) - COVID-19 cases on the rise behind prison walls, leaving those on the outside frustrated
https://abc11.com/covid-19-prison-north-carolina-inmates/7872440/
US - Delaware to temporarily suspend visitation at some prisons
US - Pennsylvania prisons face a deadly ‘full-blown resurgence’ of COVID-19
US (Guam) - Department of Corrections sees COVID-19 cases rise sharply after 7 months with no cases
Asia
India - How Maharashtra’s jails stayed free of Covid-19
Covid Early Release Program Provides Unexpected Possibilities for Youthful Offenders in Indonesia
Malaysia - Covid-19 scare a good time to reform prison system, says Suhakam
Europe
England and Wales - Eleven prison staff at HMP Dartmoor test positive for Covid-19
https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/eleven-prison-staff-hmp-dartmoor-4690853
Greece - Special measures adopted for prisons
https://www.ekathimerini.com/259058/article/ekathimerini/news/special-measures-adopted-for-prisons
Iceland - Ban On Prison Visits Met With Frustration
https://grapevine.is/news/2020/11/11/ban-on-prison-visits-met-with-frustration/
Italy - COVID contagion in jails up 600% in 2 weeks - union
Scotland - Reducing prison populations stopped Covid-19 ‘explosion’
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/18865735.reducing-prison-populations-stopped-covid-19-explosion/
News 11 November
Africa
Rwanda takes measures to control spread of COVID-19 in prisons
https://newsghana.com.gh/rwanda-takes-measures-to-control-spread-of-covid-19-in-prisons/
Uganda: Judges Task Govt to End Congestion in Prisons
https://allafrica.com/stories/202011110620.html
Americas
Canada - 2 inmates at Edmonton Institution for Women contract COVID-19
Jamaica - No Active COVID Cases In Prison
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20201110/no-active-covid-cases-prison
Nearly 400 inmates at Panamanian prison infected with COVID
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/nearly-400-inmates-panamanian-prison-185323608.html
Trinidad & Tobago - More COVID testing at Maximum Security Prison this week
US - Study Shows More Centralized, Uniform COVID-19 Response Needed in Prisons and Jails
US (New York) - Staffing, supply shortages hampered COVID-19 response at Brooklyn prison, DOJ watchdog says
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/nov/10/doj-ig-staffing-supply-shortages-hampered-covid-19/
US - COVID-19 among Wisconsin inmates reaches all-time high; New Lisbon Correctional tops outbreak list
Asia
Sri Lanka: ICRC continues to support prison authorities to combat COVID-19
Tensions rise in Sri Lankan prison after coronavirus outbreak
https://www.tamilguardian.com/content/tensions-rise-sri-lankan-prison-after-coronavirus-outbreak
Sri Lanka - Prison officials in crucial talks as virus spreads
https://colombogazette.com/2020/11/11/prison-officials-in-crucial-talks-as-virus-spreads/
Europe
Council of Europe - Mid-term impact of Covid-19 on European prison populations: new study
‘Frustrations rise’: Belgian prisons affected worse than in March
Bulgaria’s incarceration rate fell in June – September 2020, CoE study on Covid-19 impact shows
England and Wales - Dozens of inmates test positive for coronavirus at Featherstone Prison
Study: no Covid-19 cases detected among inmates, staff in Georgian prisons
https://agenda.ge/en/news/2020/3555
Greece - Prison worker's union laments lack of regular testing, says 16 out of 34 jails reported infections
Covid ‘spreading in Portuguese jails’ due to hopeless overcrowding, says syndicate
News 10 November
Africa
Morocco - Virus: Zoom sur la gestion de la pandémie dans les prisons marocaines
Rwanda: Covid-19 - Thirteen Test Positive in Rwamagana Prison
https://allafrica.com/stories/202011100094.html
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison On Lockdown
US - Texas prisons, jails worst COVID-19 hotspots of any in US
US (Missouri) - Coronavirus Pandemic Complicates How People Adjust To Life After Prison
US - Coronavirus outbreaks confirmed at three Iowa prisons
https://www.radioiowa.com/2020/11/10/coronavirus-outbreaks-confirmed-at-three-iowa-prisons/
Asia
India - Kin Not Allowed To Meet Prisoners Due To Covid-19: Maha Home Minister
Calls for Israel to protect prisoners against spread of COVID-19
Sri Lankan police asked to reduce prison congestion over COVID-19
Europe
England and Wales - Covid: Twelve Winchester Prison officers test positive
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-54873900
England and Wales - Locked up in lockdown - Life inside a Leicestershire prison during the Covid pandemic
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/locked-up-lockdown-life-inside-4684751
England and Wales - Covid-19 'dominating life' inside Belmarsh - annual report
France - Coronavirus près de Lyon : nouveaux clusters dans deux prisons de la Loire
France - Coronavirus à Strasbourg : Des surveillants positifs, cluster à la prison de l'Elsau
https://fr.news.yahoo.com/coronavirus-%C3%A0-strasbourg-surveillants-positifs-100849772.html
Suspected Covid-19 outbreaks in two Irish prisons
https://www.irishlegal.com/article/suspected-covid-19-outbreaks-in-two-irish-prisons
Northern Ireland - Covid outbreak rocks Magilligan Prison
Coronavirus Scotland: ‘Significant’ outbreak confirmed at HMP Barlinnie as staff and inmates test positive
https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/6260238/coronavirus-scotland-barlinnie-prison-outbreak-cases/
News 7 – 9 November
Americas
Prisons, Covid-19 and Mexico’s permanent war
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/democraciaabierta/carceles-covid-19-guerra-permanente-mexico-en/
US - More than 1,100 inmates at Iowa prisons have COVID-19, according to Department of Corrections
US - How COVID-19 overwhelmed South Dakota prisons and left inmates, families in the dark
US (Minnesota) - Prisoners’ union declares ‘state of emergency’ after more virus deaths in state prisons
US - Some Utah inmates get early homecoming, others fear the worst as virus spreads in prison
US - Alabama prison facilities introduce new video visitation services
https://www.waff.com/2020/11/06/alabama-prison-facilities-introduce-new-video-visitation-services/
US - More than 8% of Wisconsin prisoners infected with COVID-19
Asia
Indonesia - Over 300 inmates in Pekanbaru test positive for COVID-19
Sri Lanka - AG issues revised guidelines to address prison overcrowding
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/11/09/ag-issues-revised-guidelines-to-address-prison-overcrowding/
Europe
Council of Europe - Facing COVID-19 in prisons and probation
https://www.coe.int/en/web/portal/-/facing-covid-19-in-prisons-and-probation
England and Wales - Covid behind bars: what is lockdown like for Britain’s prisoners?
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/covid-prisons-lockdown-uk-38ltcmk9m
Gibraltar - Inside Windmill Hill, staff and inmates work together to keep prison virus free
Ireland - Prisoner tests positive for Covid-19 in Limerick Prison
Malta - Pandemic leaves prison at breaking point
https://newsbook.com.mt/en/pandemic-leaves-prison-at-breaking-point/
Spain - Nationwide ban on prison visits and inmate calls cut to curb the spread of Covid
News 6 November
Africa
Nigeria - COVID-19: Over 7000 Inmates Released In FG’s Prison Decongestion Efforts
https://tribuneonlineng.com/covid-19-over-7000-inmates-released-in-fgs-prison-decongestion-efforts/
Senegal - Dakar: Covid-19 En Prison, Un Ancien Détenu Raconte
https://galsen221.com/dakar-covid-19-en-prison-un-ancien-detenu-raconte/
Tunisia - Plus de 177 cas de coronavirus dans les prisons tunisiennes
Americas
US (Alaska) - Goose Creek prison reports dozens more COVID-19 cases
https://www.alaskapublic.org/2020/11/05/goose-creek-prison-reports-dozens-more-covid-19-cases/
US - Jails & Prisons Among Many Active COVID-19 Outbreak Sites In Colorado
https://denver.cbslocal.com/2020/11/05/colorado-jails-prisons-active-coronavirus-outbreaks/
US - ACLU Of Utah Wants More Transparency From Department Of Corrections After Inmate Dies From COVID-19
Asia
China - Shandong Prison Officials Charged With Negligence Over COVID-19 Cluster
India - HC extends interim bail to over 3,000 undertrial prisoners by 30 more days
Philippines - Supreme Court must 'get real' about prison conditions
https://www.rappler.com/nation/supreme-court-must-get-real-conditions-prisons-philippines
Philippines - 53 more high-profile inmates in Bilibid test positive for COVID-19
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1357388/high-profile-inmates-covid
Europe
England and Wales - Coronavirus preparedness in prisons
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-preparedness-in-prisons
News 5 November
Americas
Canada - Inmate describes conditions at Calgary Remand Centre during COVID-19 outbreak
US - Federal Prison Agency Says It’s Protecting Staff and Inmates From COVID-19 During Social Visits, Amid Concerns
US - More Than 2,000 Inmates Released Early From New Jersey State Prisons In Effort To Prevent COVID Spread
https://newyork.cbslocal.com/2020/11/04/new-jersey-prison-early-release/
US (New York) - Families Fear for Inmates as COVID Spike Puts State Prisons on Lockdown
US - New coronavirus outbreak reported at Alaska’s largest prison
https://www.660citynews.com/2020/11/04/new-coronavirus-outbreak-reported-at-alaskas-largest-prison/
US - Alabama's prison system sees 700+ cases of COVID-19 among inmate population
Asia
Sri Lanka - Six inmates, prison officer contract coronavirus
https://menafn.com/1101076993/Sri-Lanka-Six-inmates-prison-officer-contract-coronavirus
Sri Lanka - ICRC to set up online interactions between prisoners and families
https://economynext.com/icrc-to-set-up-online-interactions-between-prisoners-and-families-75601/
Europe
England and Wales - Serco prison officers 'forced to clean cells without PPE'
https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/18846547.serco-prison-officers-forced-clean-cells-without-ppe/
England and Wales - Prisoner died from COVID after moving into previous victim’s cell
https://insidetime.org/prisoner-died-from-covid-after-moving-into-previous-victims-cell/
France - Covid-19 : à la prison de Gradignan, le difficile reconfinement
Coronavirus pandemic threatens imprisoned people in Turkey
https://www.dw.com/en/coronavirus-pandemic-threatens-imprisoned-people-in-turkey/a-55503600
News 4 November
Africa
Kenya - GK Prison on lockdown after 26 inmates tested positive for Covid-19
Americas
US - COVID-19 outbreak at Maine Correctional Center grows to 81 confirmed cases
US - North Alabama prison facility reports 69 new COVID-19 cases
https://www.waff.com/2020/11/03/north-alabama-prison-facility-reports-new-covid-cases/
US - N.J. expected today to release thousands of prisoners early statewide
US (Colorado) - El Paso County jail sets state record for largest COVID-19 outbreak among inmates, with 690 sickened
Asia
Israeli jail shut as virus surge among Palestinian inmates
Malaysia - Covid-19 spread among prisons under control as lower daily cases recorded — Prison Department
Europe
England and Wales - 'Dozens' of inmates test positive for coronavirus at Preston prison
https://www.lep.co.uk/health/dozens-inmates-test-positive-coronavirus-preston-prison-3023711
France - Covid-19: the epidemic intensifies in prisons, among guards and inmates
https://pledgetimes.com/covid-19-the-epidemic-intensifies-in-prisons-among-guards-and-inmates/
Ireland - More than 40 Midlands Prison staff isolating due to Covid-19 outbreak
News 3 November
Africa
Algeria - coronavirus à le prison d’el harrach : d’anciens ministres incarcérés conaminés
Americas
Canada - Prison justice society urges 'drastic action' as COVID-19 spreads in Calgary jail
Canada - Judge reduces assault sentence for 'deplorable' and 'unduly harsh' conditions at Innes jail
Canada - Outbreak at Edmonton Remand Centre infects 6
https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/outbreak-at-edmonton-remand-centre-infects-6-1.5171972
America’s Brutally Packed Prisons Are Slowly Emptying
https://foreignpolicy.com/2020/11/02/americas-brutally-packed-prisons-are-slowly-emptying/
US (California) - Drop in Jail Population Due to COVID Failed to Cut Number of Black or Mentally Ill Inmates
US - New COVID-19 outbreak reported at Goose Creek Correctional Center, Alaska’s largest prison
US - More than 300 Hawaii inmates at Arizona prison test positive for COVID-19
Asia
India - Parole of aged Kerala prisoners extended by 1 month due to COVID-19
Disastrous Prison Conditions in Northeast Iran During the Pandemic
Israel virus cases up, positive test rate falls; jail says 65 prisoners infected
Malaysia - Prisons nationwide have an excess of 20,000 inmates, Dewan Rakyat told
Malaysia - Ministry, Prisons Dept have adopted long-term measures to reduce overcrowding in prisons, says Dep Home Minister
Europe
Ireland - Mass testing at Midlands Prison finds virus cases among staff, not inmates
https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1102/1175555-midlands-prison-covid/
Inmate letter reveals abysmal conditions in Turkey’s Silivri Prison including overcrowding and mistreatment
News 30 October – 2 November
Africa
Botswana: Prison Services Covid-19 Strategy Successful
https://allafrica.com/stories/202010300305.html
Americas
COVID-19 spreading at Belize Central Prison
https://amandala.com.bz/news/covid-19-spreading-at-belize-central-prison/
Canada - 'Everybody is sick': Those inside the massive Calgary prison outbreak look to the province for help
Canada - Infected inmates allowed to mingle, spreading virus throughout Calgary jail: union
https://calgaryherald.com/news/local-news/inmates-with-covid-19-symptoms-in-calgary-jail-allowed
Canada - Maskwacis minimum security prison locked down after positive COVID-19 tests
US - Should Prisoners Have to Pay For Medical Care During a Pandemic?
US - 5 deaths at Wisconsin prisons as virus rages across state
https://www.weau.com/2020/11/01/5-deaths-at-wisconsin-prisons-as-virus-rages-across-state/
US - Reported coronavirus cases nearly triple overnight at N.J. federal prison as outbreak continues
US - 79th California prison inmate dies of COVID-19 complications
US - New COVID-19 outbreaks hit Colorado's jails, prisons
US (Massachusetts) - Lawsuit Asks DOC To Release More Prisoners Amid COVID Spikes
https://www.wbur.org/news/2020/10/30/lawsuit-doc-home-confinement-release-covid
Asia
India - Push for repopulation of prisons during a pandemic is reckless
https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/coronavirus-jail-inmates-parole-6912890/
Malaysia - Tackling the deadly nexus between overcrowded prisons and Covid-19
Myanmar - COVID-19 cases in Maubin prison reaches 106
https://elevenmyanmar.com/news/covid-19-cases-in-maubin-prison-reaches-106
Philippines - Pampanga prov’l jail on total lockdown after inmate dies of COVID-19
https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/30/pampanga-provl-jail-on-total-lockdown-after-inmate-dies-of-covid-19/
Europe
England and Wales - Number of prisoners held without trial up by almost a third because of coronavirus court delays
England and Wales - Self-harming in women’s prisons increases to 10-year high
England and Wales - Criminal justice – Prison visits in the pandemic
https://www.economist.com/britain/2020/10/29/prison-visits-in-the-pandemic
England and Wales - More than a dozen prison staff at HMP Parc in Bridgend are self-isolating with Covid-19
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/parc-prison-bridgend-coronavirus-isolating-19192589
England and Wales - Covid: HMP Leeds outbreak hits staff and inmates
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-54769104
England and Wales - Covid-19 outbreak at Hull Prison with inmates forced to isolate
https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/covid-19-outbreak-hull-prison-4651284
England and Wales – Prison 'didn't act quick enough' before convicted murderer died from Covid-19, report says
England and Wales - HMP Styal in lockdown and visits suspended after outbreak of Covid-19
Ireland - Staff and prisoners to be tested at Midlands Prison following Covid-19 outbreak
Malta - Random COVID-19 Tests Replace Daily Temperature Checks In Prison
https://lovinmalta.com/news/random-covid-19-tests-replace-daily-temperature-checks-in-prison/
News 29 October
Africa
Nigeria - Mass arrest of looters threatens prison decongestion policy
https://guardian.ng/news/mass-arrest-of-looters-threatens-prison-decongestion-policy/
Americas
Canada - Report raises 'serious concerns' about progress on prison isolation units: minister
U.S. Prison, Jail Populations Fall By 170,000 In Pandemic
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/10/28/u-s-prison-jail-populations-fall-by-170000-in-pandemic/
US - Special Report: As jails free thousands amid COVID-19, reform push takes root
US - For first time, more COVID-19 cases among NY prison inmates than staff
US - Freed, then locked in: leaving a California prison amid a pandemic
US (Illinois) - 4 inmates have died from COVID-19 at East Moline Correctional Center, out of 29 in state prisons
Asia
India - Meghalaya: 1,176 prisoners released till date due to COVID-19
Iran - Wave of Arrests Makes Overcrowding Worse at Qezal Hesar Prison
Malaysia - Covid-19 outbreak in Alor Setar Prison under control, says prison director
COVID-19 Rips Through Myanmar’s Prisons
https://www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/covid-19-rips-myanmars-prisons.html
Europe
Belgium - Coronavirus: plus de 80 détenus actuellement infectés dans les prisons belges
England and Wales - Coronavirus outbreak hits Staffordshire prison as staff test positive - leaving Stokies worried for locked-up loved ones
https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/coronavirus-outbreak-hits-staffordshire-prison-4640662
Ireland - Mountjoy prisoners gain access to third-level education during pandemic
Italy - COVID: 150 jail inmates positive, 200 staff
News 28 October
Africa
Tunisia - Encombrement dans les prisons: le ministère de la Justice annonce des mesures pour améliorer les conditions de détention
Zimbabwe - Govt sued over deplorable prison conditions
https://www.newzimbabwe.com/govt-sued-over-deplorable-prison-conditions/
Americas
US - Declining Jail Population Endangered by Court Delays During Pandemic
US - Nebraska’s prisons continue to struggle with new virus cases
US (New York) - Protest over COVID-19 outbreak at Elmira Correctional Facility
US - How should California support prisoners released amid COVID-19?
https://www.sbsun.com/2020/10/27/how-should-california-support-prisoners-released-amid-covid-19/
US - 2 more Wisconsin prisons report COVID-19 outbreaks
https://wtmj.com/news/2020/10/27/2-more-wisconsin-prisons-report-covid-19-outbreaks/
Asia
India - Big task ahead for DG (Prisons) as paroled inmates set to return
India - Panel recommends final extension in interim bail of 3,337 undertrial prisoners in Delhi
Malaysia - Selangor and KL Prisons Dept says adhering to Covid-19 SOP to prevent infection in prisons
Europe
Belgium - Covid-19 : la prison de Marche-en-Famenne est en quarantaine
England and Wales - 59 inmates are in Covid self isolation at this London prison
https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/london-covid-59-inmates-covid-19178256
France - Coronavirus : En prison aussi, l’épidémie s’accélère et les personnels s’inquiètent
Malta - Prison’s solitary confinement division will be retained throughout pandemic
News 27 October
Americas
Canada - Covid-19 Outbreak Declared At Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre
Prisons are a public health crisis, the American Public Health Association says
US - Montana National Guard to help with COVID-19 outbreak at state prison
US - COVID-19 Amplifies Dire Staffing Shortages At Tennessee Prisons
https://www.wkyufm.org/post/covid-19-amplifies-dire-staffing-shortages-tennessee-prisons-0#stream/0
US - Almost half of South Dakota's inmates have tested positive for COVID-19
Asia
India - Almost 85% inmates tested for Covid, over 100 active cases in Maharashtra prisons
Indonesia - Jakarta warden reveals risks of working in overcrowded jail
https://borneobulletin.com.bn/2020/10/jakarta-warden-reveals-risks-of-working-in-overcrowded-jail/
Europe
England and Wales - UK Covid policy for children in detention 'cruel and inhumane', says UN expert
England and Wales - Report reveals overcrowding, weapons and drugs at Bullingdon prison
England and Wales - Two wings locked down at HMP Northumberland due to coronavirus outbreak
England and Wales - Inmate caught with mobile phone at Leeds prison said he needed it to check on his relatives' health during Covid-19 pandemic
News 24-26 October
Africa
Anxious wait for non-South African prisoners as Home Affairs take first step to ease parolee backlog
Zimbabwe - Mthuli Ncube Sued to Release Funds For Construction of New Prisons
Americas
Canada - More than a quarter of inmates at Calgary jail infected as Alberta again sets COVID-19 records
https://calgaryherald.com/news/local-news/calgary-covid-case-counts-keep-climbing
Canada - Infected Calgary inmates say they have been crammed into disgusting, inhumane solitary confinement
Canada - Tension à la hausse dans les prisons
https://www.tvanouvelles.ca/2020/10/25/tension-a-la-hausse-dans-les-prisons
Martinique - Vingtaine de cas Covid-19 à la prison : les syndicats très inquiets
US - For Prisoners, Pandemic Hits with Greater Force
https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2020/10/418876/prisoners-pandemic-hits-greater-force
US - COVID-19 Outbreaks At NY Prisons Lead To Renewed Calls For Clemency
https://wskg.org/news/covid-19-outbreaks-at-ny-prisons-lead-to-renewed-calls-for-clemency/
US - In California's Prison With the Worst COVID-19 Outbreak, Men Say Their Mental Health Is Suffering
US - Early releases, safety measures help reduce COVID-19 infections in California prisons
US (California) - Newsom has been ordered to halve San Quentin’s population, but he may not release inmates
US - COVID-19 sickens hundreds of prisoners, staff in northern Michigan
US - North Dakota prison system sees spike in COVID-19 cases
Asia
India - After Delhi HC ends blanket extension of bail, prison authorities fear rise in Covid cases
India - From resuming ‘mulaqat’ to making diyas and sweets, Delhi jails inch closer to normalcy
India - Madhya Pradesh govt allows prison visits from Nov 1
https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/madhya-pradesh-govt-allows-prison-visits-from-nov-1/1961335
India - Lower courts need to grant bails to reduce pendency in courts, avoid overcrowding in prisons, say experts
Indonesia - More than 100 inmates in Bali prison test positive for COVID-19
Overcrowded prisons are Malaysia’s real Covid-19 weak point, former deputy minister says
Myanmar prisons plan measures to prevent virus
https://www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-prisons-plan-measures-prevent-virus.html
Europe
England and Wales - First Covid case in Isle of Wight prison confirmed — in a staff member
England and Wales - Jail bosses respond after fears raised over Covid-19 isolation pay
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/jail-bosses-respond-after-fears-19164691
France - Prisons: le garde des Sceaux anticipe la seconde vague de coronavirus
Malta - 12 Covid cases among prison inmates
Scotland - Prisons ‘fit to burst’ as activity levels plummet
https://www.scottishlegal.com/article/prisons-fit-to-burst-as-activity-levels-plummet
Oceania
Australia - 'Virtual' visits to inmates, streamlined court hearings: how Covid could change Victorian justice
Australia (Victoria) - Intellectually disabled prisoners punished without oversight
News 23 October
Africa
Kenya - 1,700 inmates have tested positive for COVID-19 so far- MoH
https://citizentv.co.ke/news/1700-inmates-have-tested-positive-for-covid-19-so-far-moh-348810/
Madagascar: President Rajoelina must deliver on his promise to decongest prisons
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 cases at Edmonton Remand Centre continue to climb, though no spread in jail itself
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak declared at Calgary Correctional Centre as 24 inmates test positive
Canada - Anxiety builds for family members of Headingley inmates as outbreak grows
Canada - La COVID-19 gagne du terrain à la prison de Gatineau
US - Science Group Urges COVID-19 Incarceration Slowdown
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/10/22/science-group-urges-covid-19-incarceration-slowdown/
US (South Carolina) - New coronavirus prevention efforts underway in prisons; inmates remain concerned
US (Wisconsin) - Inmates speak up after COVID-19 outbreaks in prisons, jails
https://wtmj.com/news/2020/10/22/inmates-speak-up-after-covid-19-outbreaks-in-prisons-jails/
US - ACLU: Minnesota failing to protect inmates from COVID-19
http://ktoe.com/2020/10/23/aclu-minnesota-failing-to-protect-inmates-from-covid-19/
US (South Dakota) - 1 in 4 state penitentiary inmates has COVID-19, hundreds more cases reported statewide
US Virgin Islands - Health Department Lifts St. Thomas Jail Quarantine
https://stthomassource.com/content/2020/10/22/health-department-lifts-st-thomas-jail-quarantine/
Asia
Why China’s Prison Officers Are Trying to Escape, Too
http://www.sixthtone.com/news/1006316/why-chinas-prison-officers-are-trying-to-escape%2C-too
Malaysia - Penang Remand Prison inmates test positive for Covid-19 in 2nd screening
Over 81,000 detainees freed in Philippines to decongest jails amid COVID-19
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-10/23/c_139462218.htm
Europe
England and Wales - At least 32 Covid-19 cases at HMP Swaleside on the Isle of Sheppey
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/sheerness/news/covid-outbreak-at-prison-236067/
France - Covid-19 : "Il y avait 33 clusters en prison au 15 octobre" contre "trois en juin", s’inquiète la nouvelle Contrôleuse générale des prisons
https://fr.news.yahoo.com/covid-19-33-clusters-prison-082447162.html
Ireland - Four Prisoners Test Positive During Pandemic – Minister States None Acquired Virus In Prison
News 22 October
Africa
South Africa - Student inmates claim right to study, access to materials being infringed
Americas
Martinique - Un cluster Covid-19 confirmé à la prison de Ducos
US - The Trump Administration Is Getting Sued Over COVID Exploding in Prisons
US - CDC updates its guidelines for close Covid-19 contact after prison guard gets infected
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/10/21/health/cdc-covid-close-contact-guidelines-cumulative/index.html
US - Prisoners won the right to stimulus checks. Some prisons are standing in the way.
US - Covid-19 Surge Strikes Two New York Prisons
https://www.wsj.com/articles/covid-19-surge-strikes-two-new-york-prisons-11603315628
US (New Mexico) - COVID-19 outbreak inside Las Cruces prison infects 43 inmates, 28 staff
US (Pennsylvania) - Commonwealth Reviews Safe Inmate Population Reduction During COVID-19
Asia
India - 2,340 Prisoners Test Positive For COVID-19 In Maharashtra
Malaysia - Prison, lock-up SOP to be reviewed
https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/10/634273/prison-lock-sop-be-reviewed
Europe
England and Wales - Keeping Hope Alive is Vital for Prisoners Facing a ‘Double Lockdown’ During COVID-19
France - Drôme. Sept cas Covid-19 à la prison de Valence
News 21 October
Americas
Canada - Voting behind bars: Informing inmates a challenge for Saskatchewan advocates during pandemic
https://globalnews.ca/news/7409399/saskatchewan-election-prisoners-voting-from-jail/
Canada - Mini-émeute à la prison de Hull en raison du confinement
US - COVID-19 in Prisons Is Far Worse Than Previously Thought, Data Trackers Say
US - To Adhere to Public Health Guidelines and Mitigate COVID-19, Officials Should Use Their Discretion to Minimize Incarceration, Says New Report
US - COVID-19 has infected more than 2,900 people in Wisconsin’s prisons. Should certain inmates be released to stop the spread?
US (New Jersey) - Murphy: Releasing 2,800 Inmates Has Allowed for Safe Social Distancing in State Prison System
US - Human Rights Group Alleges ‘Deplorable Conditions’ At Several Georgia Prisons Amid Pandemic
https://www.wabe.org/1877037-2/
US (North Carolina) - ‘Somebody dropped the ball:’ Deaths in prisons continued, even as NC COVID cases stabilized
US (California) - Court Orders Immediate Release Or Transfer 1,700 San Quentin Prison Inmates Over COVID Outbreak
Asia
Malaysia - MPs call for prison reforms to prevent virus spread
Europe
England and Wales - 'They're going grey in the face': how Covid-19 restrictions are affecting UK inmates
England and Wales - Almost 150 inmates at Greater Manchester prison currently locked up for 24-hours-a-day because of Covid-19
England and Wales - Prisoners in isolation after coronavirus outbreak at Wormwood Scrubs
https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/prisoners-in-isolation-after-coronavirus-outbreak-at-wormwood-scrubs/
News 20 October
Americas
Canada - Six cas de COVID-19 à la prison de Gatineau
US - Hard time and health care: Challenges in caring for the prison population
US (Connecticut) - COVID Presents Fresh Challenges For Prisoners Reentering Society, But Also New Opportunities
Asia
India - Govt to obtain 1500 additional video conferencing licences for courts
India - No more extension of bails, paroles for Covid-19 reasons: Delhi High Court observes
India - Covid cases at Nahan jail, little space for isolation
Malaysia - New SOP for remand application via video conferencing, says minister
Malaysia - With supplies running low, Penang Prison pleads for more PPEs
Nepal - NHRC recommends govt to ensure health protocols in prisons
https://english.khabarhub.com/2020/19/136537/
Europe
England and Wales - Prisons to virtually connect to NHS hospitals
https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252490716/Prisons-to-virtually-connect-to-NHS-hospitals
England and Wales - Prisoners locked up for 23 hours due to Covid rules is 'dangerous'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-54607813
England and Wales - Prisoners suspected to have coronavirus kept locked in cells
France - Covid-19 en prison : «On se prend la seconde vague de plein fouet»
Oceania
Australia - ‘The Depression Increased’: The Families Who Can’t See Their Loved Ones In Prison
News 3 – 19 October
Africa
Kenya - Industrial Area Remand Closed To New Prisoners After COVID-19 Cases
South Africa - It’s been a rough year for prisoners, prison staff and JICS, says Justice Edwin Cameron
South Africa - Foreigners languishing in SA prisons, despite overdue parole dates
Uganda - COVID-19: Infections in prisons rise
https://www.newvision.co.ug/news/1529145/covid-19-infections-prisons-rise
Americas
Belize Prison to be Shut Down Amid COVID-19 Concerns
Canada - Worsening conditions in prisons during COVID-19 further marginalize criminalized women
Canada - Headingley Correctional Centre in lockdown as COVID-19 outbreak declared at jail
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/headingly-correctional-centre-covid-19-outbreak-1.5761192
Jamaica - More than 60 COVID-19 cases in the island's prison system - Samuda
https://www.loopjamaica.com/content/more-60-covid-19-cases-islands-prison-system-samuda
COVID-19 outbreak at jail pushes Tobago cases to 102
https://www.looptt.com/content/covid-19-outbreak-jail-pushes-tobago-cases-102
US - COVID-19 and mass incarceration: a call for urgent action
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(20)30231-0/fulltext
US - I left my friends in prison in a pandemic. Here's what it's like for them
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/oct/09/texas-prison-coronavirus-pandemic
US - Thousands of sick federal prisoners sought release as Covid-19 spread. Nearly all were denied.
A Super-Spreader Jail Keeps Sparking COVID Outbreaks Across the U.S.
US - NJ will grant early release for 20% of prison inmates — but even supporters have concerns
US - California kept prison factories open. Inmates worked for pennies an hour as COVID-19 spread
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-10-11/california-prison-factories-inmates-covid-19
US - 28th Alabama inmate dies after testing positive for COVID-19
https://www.alreporter.com/2020/10/13/28th-alabama-inmate-dies-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19/
Asia
Prisons: COVID-19 Tinderboxes?
https://theaseanpost.com/article/prisons-covid-19-tinderboxes
India - NHRC asks states to expand category of prisoners who can be released
India - In Delhi’s prisons, coronavirus hit the staff harder than the inmates
https://scroll.in/article/974625/in-delhis-prisons-coronavirus-hit-staff-harder-than-prisoners
124 detainees, prisoners infected with COVID-19 in Indonesia
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-10/05/c_139420174.htm
Korea, Red Cross help curb spread of COVID-19 in Indonesian prisons
Malaysian prisons report 1,126 COVID-19 cases
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/malaysian-prisons-report-1-126-covid-19-cases/1998624
Malaysia - Prisons Department to free some prisoners to curb spread of Covid-19
Malaysia - Government must urgently address dire Covid-19 spread in prisons — Lawyers for Liberty
Nepal - Overcrowded prisons pose challenge for keeping inmates safe
Philippines - 46 inmates, 12 guards in Northern Samar jail catch Covid-19
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118567
Europe
Belgium - Covid-19: Prison staff strikes to suspend unsupervised visits
Belgium - Covid-19: Nivelles prison under quarantine after 8 inmates test positive
England and Wales - Inmates at seven prisons still waiting on video call technology
England and Wales - Criminals 'handed coronavirus discounts as sentences shortened because of harsh new prison conditions'
https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/criminals-coronavirus-discounts-sentences-prison-113758442.html
England and Wales - Covid rules in prisons blocking rehabilitation, say UK campaigners
England and Wales - Special report: Just 80 Covid cases in 80,000 prisoners — but still they endure 23-hour lock-up misery
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/prisons-lockdown-investigation-a4571096.html
England and Wales - Covid: Lowdham Grange inmates confined to cells as cases rise
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-54388915
England and Wales - Coronavirus: HMP Northumberland inmates kept in cells for eight days awaiting tests
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tyne-54557744
Coronavirus: Visiting suspended at Isle of Man Prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-54393882
Four Northern Ireland prison officers test positive for Covid-19
Northern Ireland - Covid-19: Visits to Magilligan Prison temporarily suspended
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-54463331
Northern Ireland - Prison mums using Zoom to read bedtime stories to their kids
Coronavirus: More than 250 inmates self-isolating in Scotland's largest prison
News 2 October
Africa
Rwandan prison official apprehended for calling for humanitarian assistance
Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono speaks out over brutal Zimbabwe prison conditions
Americas
Canada - Employee case of COVID-19, staff shortages in maximum security at Sask. Penitentiary
US - Federal Prisons Will Let Inmates Have Visitors During Pandemic
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/01/us/federal-prisons-visits-coronavirus.html
US (South Dakota) - Third mass testing at women's prison finds more cases of COVID-19
US (Minnesota) - 70% of inmates at Waseca prison have contracted COVID-19, FMC outbreak reaches new high
US - Elderly inmates push New York state to show mercy during pandemic
https://www.pix11.com/news/local-news/elderly-inmates-push-new-york-state-to-show-mercy
Asia
COVID-19: Timely support to prisons continues across Bangladesh
https://reliefweb.int/report/bangladesh/covid-19-timely-support-prisons-continues-across-bangladesh
Indonesia - Pekanbaru Women's Prison 'Overwhelmed' as 28 Inmates Contracted Covid-19
Philippines - Gov’t to release more eligible inmates to decongest jails
https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/02/govt-to-release-more-eligible-inmates-to-decongest-jails/
Philippines - Groups call for proper inmate treatment in pandemic
Thailand - Justice Minister proposes releasing chronically ill inmates to reduce prison overcrowding
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Preston is 'severely overcrowded' and distancing is virtually impossible according to recent report
Prison conditions in Turkey amid pandemic: ‘No ventilation, disinfectants, masks…’
News 1 October
Africa
Libya - Ministry of Justice opens new facilities at Ain Zara prison
https://www.libyaobserver.ly/news/ministry-justice-opens-new-facilities-ain-zara-prison
South Africa - Leeuwkop prison shares their experience with Covid-19
https://fourwaysreview.co.za/359145/leeuwkop-shares-their-experience-with-covid-19/
Americas
Mexico is unable to tackle the prison crisis
https://pledgetimes.com/mexico-is-unable-to-tackle-the-prison-crisis/
US (California) - Screening shortcomings, lack of timely care identified in federal report on Lompoc prison response to COVID-19
US - Oklahoma prisons suspend visitation due to COVID-19 outbreaks
https://oklahoman.com/article/5672864/okahoma-prisons-suspend-visitation-due-to-covid-19-outbreaks
Inmates return to prison cells after street protest in Venezuela
Asia
Condemned Without Trial: India’s undertrials problem is spurring the COVID-19 outbreak in prisons
https://caravanmagazine.in/law/india-undertrials-problem-spurring-covid-19-outbreak-prisons
India - How COVID-19 Spread Faster Among Delhi Prison Staff Than Prisoners
https://www.indiaspend.com/how-covid-19-spread-faster-among-delhi-prison-staff-than-prisoners/
India - In-person visits at Delhi’s prisons to restart on Oct 1
India - 668 inmates in 47 jails across Karnataka tested positive for COVID-19
Iran - COVID19 Positive Sunni Prisoners Denied Medical Treatment
https://iran-hrm.com/index.php/2020/09/30/covid19-positive-sunni-prisoners-denied-medical-treatment/
Prisoners threaten suicide to pressure Lebanese parliament over amnesty law
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1742461/middle-east
Europe
England and Wales - Update issued as more coronavirus cases are confirmed at Nottinghamshire prison
https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/local-news/update-issued-more-coronavirus-cases-4564571
France: Pre-Trial Detention: The Health Crisis Does Not In Itself Justify The Release From Prison
Scotland - HMP Glenochil lockdown restrictions lead to reduction in violent incidents
Oceania
Australia - Grave fears for safety of children and other prisoners during pandemic
https://www.croakey.org/grave-fears-for-safety-of-children-and-other-prisoners-during-pandemic/
News 30 September
Africa
Kenya: Thousands of Petty Offenders Released During Covid-19 Pandemic
https://allafrica.com/stories/202009300433.html
Nigeria - COVID-19: FG Decongests Prisons, Releases 3,751 Inmates
https://tribuneonlineng.com/covid-19-fg-decongests-prisons-releases-3751-inmates/
Nigeria - FG to decongest juvenile inmates in prisons – Malami
https://punchng.com/fg-to-decongest-juvenile-inmates-in-prisons-malami/
Tunisia - Covid-19 : contamination de 34 détenus et cinq agents pénitentiaires à la prison de Mornaguia
Americas
US - Federal court orders Texas prison system to provide hand sanitizer for some geriatric inmates during pandemic
https://www.texastribune.org/2020/09/29/texas-prisons-coronavirus-protections/
US - 31 prison inmates with coronavirus have died in Virginia
https://wtop.com/virginia/2020/09/31-prison-inmates-with-coronavirus-have-died-in-virginia/
US - 65 people incarcerated in California prisons have now died of coronavirus
US - COVID Races Through Some Georgia Prisons, Sickening Staff And Inmates
US - In Wisconsin's largest-yet prison outbreak, 2 in 5 inmates at Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution have COVID-19
Asia
India – UP jail authorities issue guidelines for Covid treatment of prisoners
Over 600 Coronavirus Infections Detected In Lebanon’s Prisons
https://www.the961.com/600-corona-cases-lebanon-prisons/
Europe
Deaths from natural causes in English and Welsh prisons 'unacceptably high'
England and Wales - HMP Lowdham Grange in lockdown after Covid-19 outbreak https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/local-news/hmp-lowdham-grange-lockdown-after-4558976
News 29 September
Africa
South Africa - Many Covid-19 recoveries for Leeuwkop prison
https://midrandreporter.co.za/273929/many-covid-19-recoveries-for-leeuwkop-prison/
Americas
US - Efforts to keep COVID-19 out of Montana prisons fuels outbreaks at county jails
US - Over 3,100 Florida prison workers have tested positive for COVID-19
US - More Hawaii jail virus cases a day after containment report
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/More-Hawaii-jail-virus-cases-a-day-after-15602782.php
US (California) - Docs, Witnesses Say Lax Procedures Fueled Virus Spread in Federal Jail
US (Alaska) - Juneau inmates frustrated as state ban on classes, family visits, religious services continues
Asia
India - Coronavirus spreading in jails
https://www.dailypioneer.com/2020/state-editions/coronavirus-spreading-in-jails.html
India - UP Govt Orders Aggressive COVID-19 Testing In Prisons Amid Rise In Cases
Lebanon - Le bilan quotidien toujours au-dessus des 1.000 cas, 614 contaminations dans les prisons
Nepal - Baitadi jail facing challenges due to overcrowding
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/baitadi-jail-facing-challenges-due-to-overcrowding/
Europe
England and Wales - More prisoners self-harming at HMP Whatton following lockdown
France - Coronavirus - Covid-19 : "La pandémie a dégradé les conditions de vie des détenus" selon Prison Insider, à Lyon
Ireland - High Court challenge brought over reduction of prisoner visits due to Covid-19
Northern Ireland - Hidden heroes: prison officers are hailed for their initiatives during crisis
News 26-28 September
The untold plight of imprisoned women in Africa, the Americas, and Asia under the pandemic
Africa
Gambia - Mile 2 Prison hit by covid-19
https://thepoint.gm/africa/gambia/headlines/mile-2-prison-hit-by-covid-19
Americas
Bahamas - Days After Commissioner Says Prison Has No Cases, Minister Says Officers Have Covid-19
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2020/sep/25/days-after-commissioner-says-prison-has-no-cases-m/
Canada - Visits suspended at federal prisons in Quebec to curb COVID-19 second wave
Canada - Prisoner at North Fraser Pretrial Centre tests positive for COVID-19
https://vancouversun.com/news/prisoner-at-north-fraser-pretrial-centre-tests-positive-for-covid-19
Guyana - No investigation ongoing into how Lusignan prisoners were infected with COVID-19
Mexico - Prison coronavirus outbreak in La Paz; 21 inmates infected
https://mexiconewsdaily.com/news/prison-coronavirus-outbreak-in-la-paz/
US - Amid massive covid-19 outbreak, Virginia prisons accused of failing inmates again
US (California) - Men’s prison in Chino records 22nd coronavirus-related death
US (California) - 27th San Quentin prisoner dies of coronavirus complications https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/09/27/san-quentin-prison-inmate-dies-of-covid-19-complications/
US - Prisoners Describe Official Missteps At The Center Of Michigan’s Worst Coronavirus Outbreak
https://theintercept.com/2020/09/28/covid-prison-outbreak-michigan-coronavirus/
US - Dozens more contract COVID-19 in South Dakota women's prison
Asia
India - As Covid-19 cases breach the 2,000-mark in prisons across Maharashtra, lawyers to press for changes in high-power panel’s guidelines
India - Nearly 1,200 inmates infected in 71 jails in UP, says DG Prison
India - COVID-19: Parole extended for 3900 MP jail inmates
https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/covid19-parole-extended-for-3900-mp-jail-inmates/1942880
Indonesia - 47 inmates n East Java prison hospitalized due to covid-19
https://en.antaranews.com/news/157525/47-inmates-n-east-java-prison-hospitalized-due-to-covid-19
Alarming Rise of Inmates contracting Coronavirus in Southwest Iran
https://iran-hrm.com/index.php/2020/09/26/rise-of-inmates-contracting-coronavirus-in-sheyban-prison/
Malaysia - EMCO at Tawau Prison extended
http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/159010/emco-at-tawau-prison-extended-/
Philippines - COA chides BuCor for delay in procurement of much-needed medicines for PDLs
Europe
England and Wales - MoJ may extend use of prison video calls
https://www.ukauthority.com/articles/moj-may-extend-use-of-prison-video-calls/
Northern Ireland - Defendants with `winnable cases' pleading guilty to get out of jail due to Covid-91 court delays
Scottish Prisons: Visits to restart in Scotland’s prisons with limits in place
Oceania
Australia - Victorian prisoners get COVID sentence cuts
French Polynesia - Tahiti’s Nuutania prison detects covid-19 outbreak with 20 cases
News 25 September
Africa
South Africa - Families encouraged to visit Kgosi Mampuru prison inmates
In Zimbabwe’s overcrowded prisons, fear of COVID-19 spreads
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/9/25/gg
Americas
Jamaica - Tower Street prisoners 'shaken up' after COVID cases confirmed
https://www.loopjamaica.com/content/tower-street-prisoners-shaken-after-confirmed-covid-cases
Trinidad & Tobago - No COVID death in prison says acting commissioner
https://www.nationnews.com/nationnews/news/247812/covid-death-prison-acting-commissioner
Stanford researchers find COVID-19 spreads faster in American jails than on cruise ships
https://news.stanford.edu/2020/09/24/covid-19-spread-american-prisons/
US - For Inmates With COVID-19, Anxiety and Isolation Make Prison 'Like A Torture Chamber'
US (Virginia) - Prison holding geriatric prisoners reports 11th virus death
https://www.cbs19news.com/story/42677010/prison-holding-geriatric-prisoners-reports-11th-virus-death
US - Massachusetts DOC Will Resume In-Person Visits At Prisons Next Week
https://boston.cbslocal.com/2020/09/24/massachusetts-doc-in-person-prison-visits/
Europe
Coronavirus Scotland: Prisons ban family visits again over new restrictions
News 24 September
Africa
Nigeria - COVID-19 causes delay in prison reform implementation - CG
https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/covid-19-causes-delay-in-prison-reform-implementation-cg/d2042bk
Americas
US - Ten inmate deaths reported at Virginia prison from COVID-19
https://wtop.com/virginia/2020/09/ten-inmate-deaths-reported-at-virginia-prison-from-covid-19/
US (Minnesota) - Significant COVID-19 outbreak at Waseca federal prison
https://kttc.com/2020/09/23/significant-covid-19-outbreak-at-waseca-federal-prison/
US - NJ bill allows some inmates to be released early because of pandemic
US Virgin Islands - Tim Duncan Donates Over 10,000 Masks to V.I. Prison System
https://stjohnsource.com/2020/09/23/tim-duncan-donates-over-10000-masks-to-v-i-prison-system/
Asia
Lebanon - Virus Cases Soar Past 350 in Roumieh Prison
http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/275201
Nepal - 507 inmates contract COVID-19 at Siraha Prison
https://english.khabarhub.com/2020/23/129796/
Europe
Covid stops family visits for children in youth prisons in England and Wales
England and Wales - Lockdown sees rise in Belmarsh prisoners receiving drug contaminated letters
Hungary - COVID-19 Rapidly Spreading in Szeged Prison
https://hungarytoday.hu/covid-19-rapidly-spreading-in-szeged-prison-nagyfa-inmates-coronavirus/
Ireland - Dublin visitors to Portlaoise jails to be refused entry due to Covid-19 as physical visits resume
Dozens of Scots prison escort staff self-isolating after coronavirus outbreak
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/dozens-scots-prison-escort-staff-22733895
News 23 September
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 shouldn’t be a get-out-of-jail-free card, Nunavut’s top judge rules
Canada - Being held in ‘awful’ Thompson RCMP cells during trial reason to reduce prison sentence, says judge
Jamaica - Two COVID-19 cases at Tower Street prison
http://www.loopjamaica.com/content/video-two-covid-19-cases-tower-street-prison
Trinidad & Tobago - 139 foreign prisoners demand talks with Embassy officials
US - NY Urged to Make Fixes To Avoid Another COVID Surge in Prisons and Jails
US (Florida) - Federal Prison System's COVID-19 Response Now Under Review
US (Texas) - County jails faced with overcrowding problem due to effects of pandemic
https://www.kltv.com/2020/09/22/county-jails-faced-with-overcrowding-problem-due-effects-pandemic/
US (California) - COVID-19 cases surpass 1000 in Folsom State Prison
https://goldcountrymedia.com/news/176271/covid-19-cases-surpass-1000-in-folsom-state-prison/
US - Federal lawmakers demand answers on COVID-19 conditions in Virginia prisons
US - Man dies of COVID-19 in Oregon prison, 7th since pandemic began
https://katu.com/news/local/man-dies-of-covid-19-in-oregon-prison-7th-since-pandemic-began
US - Some Oklahoma prison workers receive COVID-19 pay
Asia
India - Five Luksar jail inmates donate plasma for Covid treatment
Inmates’ families rally outside Lebanon’s largest prison amid reports of COVID-19 outbreak
Europe
England and Wales - Wandsworth Prison living conditions deemed unacceptable
https://www.swlondoner.co.uk/news/23092020-wandsworth-prison-living-conditions-unacceptable/
Scotland - Coronavirus case at West Lothian Prison with close contacts told to self-isolate for 14 days
UN recommends Ukraine grant amnesty to certain convicts amid COVID-19 pandemic
News 22 September
Africa
ICRC Donates PPE To Gambia Prison Services
https://www.voicegambia.com/2020/09/21/icrc-donates-ppe-to-gambia-prison-services/
Americas
Bahamas - Prison Boss Warns Staff – Don't Take Issues Public
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2020/sep/21/prison-boss-warns-staff-dont-take-issues-public/
Guyana - 120 Lusignan inmates test positive for COVID-19 – Anthony
Coronavirus en Martinique : un cas avéré au sein du personnel de la prison
US - Locked up during COVID-19: Costly phone calls strain families
https://news.trust.org/item/20200921141506-njd70/
US (South Dakota) - COVID-19 cases increase at women's prison, DOC discontinues community service projects
https://eu.argusleader.com/story/news/2020/09/21/covid-19-cases-increase-womens-prison/5855418002/
US (Florida) - Prison visits have been suspended for six months. Here’s what it’s been like for families
US (Nebraska) - Lack of staff at NDCS could slow down parole process amid overcrowding emergency
https://nebraska.tv/news/local/prison-overcrowding-09-21-2020
US - Coronavirus in Tennessee: Department of Correction reports 609 active cases in prison
US (California) - Court Filing: COVID-19 Outbreak At San Diego Jail Due To Careless Handling Of Infected Inmate
https://www.kpbs.org/news/2020/sep/21/court-filing-outbreak-federal-jail-san-diego-cause/
US - Oklahoma prisons see jump in COVID-related death toll
https://oklahoman.com/article/5672147/oklahoma-prisons-see-jump-in-covid-related-death-toll
Asia
India - Maharashtra Jails Report 2,012 COVID-19 Cases, 6 Deaths
https://www.mid-day.com/articles/maharashtra-jails-report-2012-covid-19-cases-6-deaths/23003229
India - Assam: 350 detention camp inmates released on bail during Covid-19 pandemic, says Centre
Japan - Convict to sue Osaka Prison for stricter COVID-19 measures
http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/13750199
Nepal - NHRC Urges Even And Judicious Implementation Of Remittance Of Prison Term
https://nepal24hours.com/nhrc-urges-even-and-judicious-implementation-of-remittance-of-prison-term/
Sri Lanka - Reforms for rehabilitation
http://www.ft.lk/ft_view__editorial/Reforms-for-rehabilitation/58-706395
Europe
England and Wales - Erlestoke Prison 'less safe' following Covid-19 restrictions
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-54234812
News 19 - 21 September
Americas
University education program still on hold for inmates across Canada
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/walls-to-bridges-on-hold-pandemic-1.5727590
Guyana police probe shooting deaths of two prisoners
https://www.nationnews.com/nationnews/news/247754/guyana-police-probe-shooting-deaths-prisoners
Trinidad & Tobago - Over 250 Prisons Officers In Quarantine
US - Limited N.C. prison, juvenile justice facility visitation resumes for COVID-19 precautions
US (Massachusetts) - As prison visits prohibited amid pandemic, families push for free calls
US - Facing an indefinite ban on in-person visits, families of Alaska prisoners question paid phone calls
US - San Francisco announces all phone calls from county jails are now free
US (Washington) - WA Official Proposes 30% Cut in Prison Population
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/09/18/wa-official-proposes-30-cut-in-prison-population/
US (Washington) - I’m Living in Fear of COVID as New People Get Transferred Into the Prison I’m In
Asia
India - Covid-19 cases among prisoners in Maharashtra jails breaches 2,000 mark; no fatalities since six weeks
India - Banquet hall in Uttarakhand’s Rudrapur turned into Covid care centre for prisoners
India - Bihar: Jails getting overcrowded amid pandemic
Nepal - President Bhandari remits jail term of 290 inmates
https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/president-bhandari-remits-jail-term-of-290-inmates/
Europe
England and Wales - Solicitors ‘face 10-week wait’ to talk to their clients in prison via video link
England and Wales - Innocent people being held in prison for months without trial because of ‘underfunded justice system’, campaigners say
France - Les cas de covid-19 se multiplient dans les prisons de Bourg-en-Bresse (Ain) et le centre pour mineurs à Meyzieu (Rhône)
News 18 September
Africa
Nigeria - Bauchi governor requests FG to extend COVID-19 support to prisons
https://www.sunnewsonline.com/bauchi-governor-requests-fg-to-extend-covid-19-support-to-prisons/
South Africa - More than 100 die as Covid-19 storm rips through SA's prisons
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Caribbean rights group wants more done to protect prisoners from COVID-19
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison hunger strike fizzles
https://www.guardian.co.tt/news/prison-hunger-strike-fizzles-6.2.1212997.546bd22322
US - Nearly 1,000 inmates, more than 200 staff in Wisconsin prisons have tested positive for coronavirus
US - Collapsing inmates, cold hot dogs and one nurse: quarantine in a Virginia prison
US - COVID-19 outbreak reported at South Dakota women's prison
US - W.Va. reports 2nd inmate death related to COVID-19
https://www.dominionpost.com/2020/09/17/w-va-reports-2nd-inmate-death-related-to-covid-19/
Asia
India - 105 inmates test COVID positive in UP jail
https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/national/105-inmates-test-covid-positive-in-up-jail
Nepal - Most Siraha prison inmates infected with COVID-19
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/most-siraha-prison-inmates-infected-with-covid-19/
Europe
Belgium - Prisons: vers une grève mardi, le personnel ne veut plus de visites hors surveillance en période Covid
Northern Ireland - Maghaberry Prison: Republican prisoners refusing meals
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-54202281
Hundreds of prisoners forced to go into self-isolation at a jail on Spain’s Costa Blanca
Switzerland - Premier cas de Covid-19 en prison
https://www.24heures.ch/premier-cas-de-covid-19-en-prison-942950190660
News 17 September
Africa
Gambia - Coronavirus Outbreak At Mile Two Prison; Prisoners Contract The Deadly Virus!
Ghana - Coronavirus: Masks4all supports Prison Service with 4000 masks
219 inmates escape from Uganda prison, some with guns, ammunition
Zimbabwe - Kurauone Speaks On Conditions At Masvingo Remand Prison
https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/09/16/kurauone-speaks-on-conditions-at-masvingo-remand-prison/
Americas
Podcast: How Belize Central Prison has Mitigated the Spread of COVID-19
Guyana - Unrest erupts at Lusignan prison after two positive COVID tests
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons Commissioner on inmates’ hunger strike: They want sympathy
https://www.looptt.com/content/prisons-commissioner-inmates-hunger-strike-they-want-sympathy
US - Health Officials Blame Prison For COVID Outbreak In Rural Southeast Georgia
US - Shoddy masks — some made from socks — leave Central Florida jail inmates exposed to COVID-19, attorneys say
https://news.yahoo.com/shoddy-masks-made-socks-leave-095200030.html
Asia
UN rights experts call for Iran prisoner furlough
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1735491/middle-east
Lebanon - Coronavirus outbreak in Roumieh Prison, over 250 cases detected
Europe
Belgium - Coronavirus en prison : 33 détenus et 77 membres du personnel contaminés
France - Covid-19 en prison dans l’Ain et le Rhône. Le directeur régional annonce un dépistage élargi
England and Wales - Government admits to not knowing extent of excessive pre-trial detention post Lockdown
Oceania
Australia - Children should never be subjected to solitary confinement
Australia - New prisoners decreased by 17% for June Quarter 2020
https://www.miragenews.com/new-prisoners-decreased-by-17-for-june-quarter-2020/
News 16 September
Africa
More than 50 in overcrowded DRC prison starve to death
Senegal - Les Plats Provenant De L’extérieur Encore Admis Dans Les Prisons, Les Week-Ends
How South African prisons are managing Covid-19
https://www.newframe.com/how-south-african-prisons-are-managing-covid-19/
Americas
Guyana - Coronavirus at Lusignan Prison; containment efforts intensify
https://demerarawaves.com/2020/09/15/coronavirus-at-lusignan-prison-containment-efforts-intensify/
US - Leavenworth tops all federal prisons in COVID-19 cases
https://hayspost.com/posts/f19706a9-5748-4150-9388-ca503bceca05
US (Florida) - 24% of local COVID-19 cases reported in long-term care and correctional facilities
US (Oklahoma) - Another Prison COVID Outbreak; Hundreds Of Inmates Test Positive At Vinita Facility
US - Two More Oklahoma Prisoners Dead After COVID Infection
https://www.kosu.org/post/two-more-oklahoma-prisoners-dead-after-covid-infection
US (Hawaii) - Mass COVID Testing to Take Place at Jails, Prisons Statewide
https://bigislandnow.com/2020/09/15/mass-covid-testing-to-take-place-at-jails-prisons-statewide/
Asia
India - 351 jails infected with COVID-19, infections in prisons rising fast: National Campaign Against Torture
India - Proactive approach can ease congestion in jails
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/comment/proactive-approach-can-ease-congestion-in-jails-141796
India - Emergency parole of prisoners in Maharashtra will be automatically extended: Bombay HC
Maharashtra: Families of Prison Inmates with Co-morbidities and Age Issues Worried, Only Those Without Serious Offences Released
Philippines - 38 inmates, 2 jail personnel contract COVID
https://www.panaynews.net/38-inmates-2-jail-personnel-contract-covid/
Europe
England and Wales - Severe overcrowding at HMP Preston making social distancing 'all but impossible'
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/severe-overcrowding-hmp-preston-making-18938080
France - Covid-19. 24 cas en zone pénitentiaire dans le Rhône et l’Ain
Oceania
Australia - Tasmanian Custodial Inspector releases report on rehabilitation in state's prison system
https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/6928484/prison-failures-identified/
Australia - Some prisoners spending 22 hours a day in solitary confinement due to Queensland Covid lockdown
News 15 September
Africa
DRC - Butembo : 2 détenus atteints de Covid-19 à la prison de Kakwangura refusent le traitement “suite au manque de nourriture”
Uganda: Ministry of Health and WHO Respond to a Spike of Covid-19 Infection in Amuru Prison
https://allafrica.com/stories/202009150061.html
Americas
US - Ethical or exploitative—should prisoners participate in COVID-19 vaccine trials?
US - Protesters Chant 'Orange Lives Matter' at Oklahoma Prison Facing Coronavirus Outbreak
https://www.theroot.com/protesters-chant-orange-lives-matter-at-oklahoma-prison-1845054089
US - Iowa prison population falls from 22% to 7% over capacity
https://www.radioiowa.com/2020/09/14/iowa-prison-population-falls-from-22-to-7-over-capacity/
US - Hundreds Of Colorado Inmates Have Been Released Early Because Of Coronavirus. This Is One Man’s Story
https://www.cpr.org/2020/09/14/colorado-coronavirus-update-prison-inmate-early-releases/
Asia
Kazakh Prisoners Packed In Cells, Endure 'Degrading' Conditions In Coronavirus Lockdown
Lebanon lawyer warns coronavirus-hit prison 'humanitarian time bomb'
Lebanon - Riots in Roumieh prison after COVID-19 cases detected
Europe
Belgium - Préavis de grève dans les prisons: une réunion mercredi entre syndicats et autorités
England and Wales - HMP Hewell 'cannot be considered safe', inspectors say in damning report
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/local-news/hmp-hewell-cannot-considered-safe-18931299
France - Lyon : La prison pour mineurs sérieusement touchée par le Covid-19. Des mesures fortes viennent d’être prises
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid-19: Two Auckland Prison inmates and 20 Corrections staff in isolation
News 4 – 14 September
The pandemic is boosting efforts to get the old out of prison
Africa
Morocco Suspends All Family Visits to Prisons as COVID-19 Threat Grows
‘Staggering’ Number of Women in Sierra Leone’s Overcrowded Prisons Yet to Be Convicted
https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/n7wybg/sierra-leone-women-prison-report-sept-2020
South Africa - Covid-19: SA prisons report 93% recovery rate, with 299 active cases left out of 6 944 infections
Uganda - Kitgum taskforce to regulate movement of prison staff due to Covid-19
https://www.independent.co.ug/kitgum-taskforce-to-regulate-movement-of-prison-staff-due-to-covid-19/
Uganda - Moroto prison sealed off as 30 inmates test positive to Covid-19
https://www.independent.co.ug/moroto-prison-sealed-off-as-30-inmates-test-positive-to-covid-19/
Zimbabwe - Zim Covid-19+ prisoners given ‘hot water’ as treatment, says Chin’ono
https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zim-covid-19-prisoners-given-hot-water-as-treatment-says-chinono/
Americas
COVID-19 spreads in Brazil’s prisons, reformatories
https://www.macaubusiness.com/covid-19-spreads-in-brazils-prisons-reformatories/
Tattooed gangsters in coronavirus masks crammed into packed cells amid pandemic in hellhole El Salvador prison
Abuse and fear: Trans women speak out about life in Nicaragua’s prisons during COVID-19
US - Act now or coronavirus will sentence more prisoners to death, say experts
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/sep/08/coronavirus-prisons-jails-us
US - Prison inmates are twice as likely to die of Covid-19 than those on the outside, new report finds
US - Report: Only 7% of Inmates' Loved Ones Say Prisoners Have Soap and Other Basic Necessities to Stop the Spread of Covid-19
US - ‘Don’t let me die’: Inside the Alabama prison system’s COVID-19 quarantine ward
https://www.al.com/news/2020/09/dont-let-me-die-inside-the-alabama-prison-systems-covid-19-ward.html
US - COVID-19 Inmate Death Toll Tops 100 In Florida
https://miami.cbslocal.com/2020/09/05/covid-19-inmate-death-toll-tops-100/
US - Cumulative number of infected Missouri prisoners nears 1,000
https://apnews.com/40430ac440c766a8c37c033df4fff0b1
US - California’s federal prisons to lift COVID-19 visitor restriction — and workers are worried
https://www.sacbee.com/news/california/article245408120.html
US - Oregon fires: evacuated prisoners sleep on floor in packed Covid-19 hotspot
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/sep/10/oregon-fires-prisoners-evacuated-covid-19
Deaths Inside Venezuelan Prisons Doubled During Pandemic
https://www.insightcrime.org/news/analysis/deaths-inside-venezuelan-prisons-doubled-during-pandemic/
Asia
Hong Kong inmates who refused COVID-19 test locked in solitary confinement, denied water: Report
India - Maharashtra: High caseload among jail inmates, prison dept ramps up testing
India - Aware Covid spreading in prisons, take immediate steps, Bombay HC tells govt
Iran - Women in Sepidar Prison Held in Unbearable Conditions Amid the Pandemic
Twelve Detainees In Ofer Israeli Prison Are Covid-19 Positive
https://imemc.org/article/twelve-detainees-in-ofer-israeli-prison-are-covid-19-positive/
Lebanon’s overcrowded prison may be courting COVID-19 health disaster
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1734006/middle-east
Malaysia - Six New Covid-19 Cases Detected At Tawau Prison From Benteng LD Cluster
Nepal - Supreme Court once again orders authorities to release or reduce jail terms of inmates in view of Covid-19 pandemic
Nepal - 231 inmates across country infected with COVID-19
https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/231-inmates-across-country-infected-by-covid-19/
Fighting the Pandemic in Pakistan’s Prisons
https://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/voices/fighting-the-pandemic-in-pakistans-prisons
Pakistan Prepares to Free Female Prisoners Amid Calls for Jail Reforms
How Singapore’s prisons are taking precautions against COVID-19
Thailand - Jail In Lockdown After Prisoner Found With Coronavirus
Europe
England and Wales - People can now be held in prison for eight months while awaiting trial as Government extends time limit
https://inews.co.uk/news/court-cases-backlog-coronavirus-uk-lockdown-crime-nightingale-633814
England and Wales - Use of segregation post-lockdown at HMP Whitemoor ‘excessive’
https://www.thejusticegap.com/use-of-segregation-post-lockdown-at-hmp-whitemoor-excessive/
Coronavirus Ireland: Covid-19 outbreak fear at Dublin Prison as new prisoner struck with virus
https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/coronavirus-ireland-dublin-prison-case-18924231
Northern Ireland - First inmate tests positive for Covid-19 at Maghaberry Prison
https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/man-tests-positive-covid-19-18887682
Scotland - More than one in four prisoners now on remand due to covid-19 court backlog
https://theferret.scot/more-than-one-in-four-prisoners-now-on-remand/
Oceania
Australia - Drug use drops sharply in Victorian prisons during COVID-19 visitor ban
News 29 August – 3 September
Africa
Ghana - We’re building robust health systems in prisons against Covid-19 outbreaks – Bawumia
South Africa - Prisoner with chronic illnesses loses bid to be released on 'Covid-19 parole'
South Africa - Kgosi Mampuru prison allegedly flouting Covid-19 rules
Americas
COVID-19 spreads in Brazil's prisons, reformatories
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-09/03/c_139339354.htm
Canada - “Worse than lockdown”: prisoners at the Burnside Jail are being held in solitary confinement conditions for COVID lockdowns
Guyana - Prison service gets IMPACS boost to keep COVID-19 out
In Mexico women inmates find education chance amid pandemic
US - Bureau of Prisons resumes in-person visits as inmates, staff continue to die from COVID-19
The U.S. Prison System Has Reached 1,000 COVID-19 Deaths
https://reason.com/2020/08/28/the-u-s-prison-system-has-reached-1000-covid-19-deaths/
US - Prison inmates are twice as likely to die of Covid-19 than those on the outside, new report finds
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/09/02/us/prison-coronavirus-clusters-report/index.html
US - Massive Coronavirus Outbreak At CoreCivic Prison In Middle Tennessee Raises Questions
US - Latest coronavirus outbreak behind bars is at Louisiana prison that holds dialysis patients
Asia
India - Inmates Released From Overcrowded Prisons Due to COVID-19 Are Struggling
India - Stretched beyond capacity, coronavirus fears lurk in Andhra Pradesh’s central prisons
India - 1,400 released in bid to decongest Amritsar Central Jail
Iran failing to control coronavirus spread in prisons: rights group
https://www.macaubusiness.com/iran-failing-to-control-coronavirus-spread-in-prisons-rights-group/
Malaysia - Covid-19: 14 new cases, outbreak spreads from lockup to prison
https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/541207
Maldives - Covid-19: five more convicts test positive from Hulhumalé jail
Officials fear things for the worse in Nepal’s overcrowded prisons as four inmates die in central jail
Pakistan’s PM orders release of sick, older female prisoners
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1728631/world
Europe
19 prisoners, 5 workers infected with coronavirus in Azerbaijani prison
https://jam-news.net/gobustan-prison-coronavirus-hotspot-life-imprisonment-azerbaijan-news/
England and Wales - Homelessness among prison leavers ‘will rise as Covid support ends’
England and Wales - Prisoners being released into rough sleeping in a pandemic is a clear marker of institutional failure
England and Wales - Inmates ‘unable to shower’ due to prison staffing crisis
http://islingtontribune.com/article/inmates-unable-to-shower-due-to-prison-staffing-crisis
England and Wales - Mother sues MoJ over child's lack of access to father in jails lockdown
Second Covid-19 case confirmed in Irish prison system
Over 600 Swabs Carried Out In Malta’s Prison With No Inmates Testing Positive For COVID-19
Northern Ireland - Prisons to resume offender management programmes and face-to-face learning
Scotland - Barlinnie prison visits suspended following new Glasgow coronavirus restrictions
Oceania
Australia prisoners set fire in cells as virus lockdown sparks unrest
Australia (Queensland) - Advocates demand an end to solitary confinement for at-risk prisoners
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-08-31/solitary-confinement-queensland-human-rights/12598334
News 28 August
Africa
Ethiopia - COVID-19 State Of Emergency Inquiry Board Recommends Releasing Prisoners Who Qualify For Pardon, Probation To Reduce Virus Spread
Kenya - Panic as 27 Embu prisoners test Covid-19 positive
Madagascar’s justice ministry blames deadly prison breakout on coronavirus
COVID-19: Several Moroccan Prisons Suspend Family Visits
Americas
In Brazil’s prisons, inequality isn’t just a condition. It’s the law.
Covid-19 : 20 cas de contaminations détectés à la prison de Baie-Mahault en Guadeloupe
Maldives - Six detainees in Hulhumalé test positive for Covid-19
US - COVID Prison Disaster Prompts Reform Bills: Legislative Watch
https://www.governing.com/next/COVID-Prison-Disaster-Prompts-Reform-Bills-Legislative-Watch.html
US (Wyoming) - WDOC: Containment efforts slowing COVID-19 transmission in prison
US (Alaska) - Anchorage juvenile justice facility reports 16 cases of COVID-19
US - 14th S. Carolina inmate dies after contracting COVID-19
US - Two Oregon inmates died on the same day after contracting COVID-19 at eastern Oregon prison
Asia
India - Covid prisoners in Barmer jail upload videos of pathetic conditions inside
India - 42 prisoners, Deputy jailer of Jabalpur jail test positive for coronavirus
India - Over 1300 prisoners in AP jails have contracted COVID-19 so far:Director General of Prisons
Oceania
Australia - Calls for reduced sentences, early releases due to Qld prison lockdown
News 27 August
Africa
Zimbabwe - Chikurubi Maximum Prisoner Dies From COVID-19
https://www.zimeye.net/2020/08/27/chikurubi-maximum-prisoner-dies-from-covid-19/
Americas
Canada - Panel overseeing prison segregation says they were blocked from doing their work
Canada - Lack of jail space is creating backlog in courts, says judge
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-covid-19-orr-jail-1.5699435
Trinidad & Tobago - 231 prison officers in COVID quarantine, recruits fill void
US - Federal Bureau of Prisons guilty of deliberate indifference in failing to protect healthy prisoners from COVID-19
US - 4th Oregon prison inmate dies of COVID-19
https://www.opb.org/article/2020/08/27/4th-oregon-prison-inmate-dies-of-covid-19/
US (North Carolina) - Outbreak rages at NC women’s prison ahead of new court hearing
https://carolinapublicpress.org/37400/covid-outbreak-nc-women-prison-raeligh/
US (Hawaii) - 30 HCCC Pretrial Misdemeanor Inmates to be Released
https://bigislandnow.com/2020/08/26/30-hccc-pretrial-misdemeanor-inmates-to-be-released/
US - AG Won’t Release Information On COVID-19 Outbreak At Hawaii Jail
https://www.civilbeat.org/2020/08/ag-wont-release-information-on-covid-19-outbreak-at-hawaii-jail/
Asia
India - COVID-19: NHRC Writes To States, UTs Seeking Information On Medical Infrastructure, Practices
Prisoners infected with coronavirus in Israeli prison
http://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/119000
Nepal - National rights watchdog asks government to ensure health and safety in prisons
Europe
England and Wales - The other prison pandemic
https://www.thelondoneconomic.com/news/the-other-prison-pandemic/26/08/
Northern Ireland - Long welcomes next phase of prisons’ Covid recovery plan
Oceania
Australia - Queensland prisons in lockdown after officer tests positive to coronavirus
Australia (Queensland) - Prison lockdowns cannot be solution to preventing COVID-19 outbreak
https://www.miragenews.com/prison-lockdowns-cannot-be-solution-to-preventing-covid-19-outbreak/
News 26 August
Africa
South Africa - Fears monthly prison visits could increase likelihood of inmates getting Covid-19
Zimbabwe - Bulawayo prisons write major success story. . . record 100 percent Covid-19 recoveries, eliminate new infections
Zimbabwe - Magistrate orders for the immidiate sanitisation of Chikurubi Maximum Prison Cells
https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-191018.html
Americas
US - The Growing Litigation Battle Over COVID-19 in the Nation’s Prisons and Jails
US (Washington State) - Voices from Solitary: Fighting the Coronavirus in Prison with Transfers, Isolation, Threats, and Game Boys
US - Florida Prison Coronavirus Toll Keeps Climbing
https://miami.cbslocal.com/2020/08/25/florida-prison-coronavirus-toll-keeps-climbing/
US - Michigan inmates fear punitive responses to COVID-19 in state prisons
https://www.michiganradio.org/post/michigan-inmates-fear-punitive-responses-covid-19-state-prisons
US - 646 more Kentucky inmates released from prison to prevent COVID-19 spread
US (North Carolina) - Prisoners continued being sent to laundry job after co-workers tested positive for COVID-19
US - Oregon governor considers releasing 400 prisoners as coronavirus precaution: report
US - Colorado officials reach settlement over inmates at risk for severe COVID-19 infections
https://www.denverpost.com/2020/08/25/colorado-prison-at-risk-inmates-covid/
Asia
India - Thane: Behind prison walls, Covid spawns new freedom and a humane touch
India - 1,690 inmates test positive for Covid-19
https://www.dailypioneer.com/2020/state-editions/1-690-inmates-test-positive-for-covid-19.html
Europe
Belgium - Visites limitées dans les prisons : quatre associations demandent des mesures pour les détenus et leurs proches
Oceania
Australia - 50 Vic inmates, staff contract COVID-19
https://www.theislanderonline.com.au/story/6896123/50-vic-inmates-staff-contract-covid-19/?cs=7
News 25 August
Africa
Imprisoned rights defenders in Egypt at ‘grave risk’ of COVID-19, warn UN experts
https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/08/1070882
Kenya - Lamu cops free petty offenders to decongest cells in Covid-19 fight
Uganda’s rising prison COVID-19 infections
https://africa.cgtn.com/2020/08/24/ugandas-rising-prison-covid-19-infections/
Uganda - Prison Authorities Asks MOH to Test all Inmates, Staff for COVID-19
Americas
Canada - Lawyer questions province's audit of pandemic protocols at Edmonton Remand Centre
Trinidad - Two prisoners, several prison officers test positive for COVID-19
US - Prisoners and guards agree about federal coronavirus response: ‘We do not feel safe’
US - An Imprisoned Mom’s Experience With Virtual Parenting
https://www.moms.com/parenting-prison-coronavirus-virtual-parenting/
US - COVID-19 Inmate Deaths Exceed 2001-2020 Executions
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/08/24/covid-19-inmate-deaths-exceed-2001-2020-executions/
US - Care or punishment? Michigan prisoners placed in solitary as COVID surges
US - New Mexico ACLU sues over inmate treatment amid pandemic
https://www.fox34.com/story/42537056/new-mexico-aclu-sues-over-inmate-treatment-amid-pandemic
US (California) - ‘Disgusting policy’: Prisoners’ families must pay for remains after COVID-19 deaths
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/It-s-a-disgusting-policy-After-prisoners-15506465.php
US (California) - COVID-19 brings change in federal prosecutors’ handling of compassionate-release requests
Asia
India - 59 inmates +ve for virus in Beed jail
Iran’s Adelabad Prison: COVID-19 Risk High, Fostered By Population Density And Government Policies – Interview
Europe
England and Wales - Three prisoners test positive for coronavirus as Teesside jail block goes into lockdown
https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/three-prisoners-test-positive-coronavirus-18823796
Malta - 5 prison employees test positive for coronavirus
https://newsbook.com.mt/en/5-prison-employees-test-positive-for-coronavirus/
News 22-24 August
Africa
DRC - Covid-19 : L’OMS RDC fait un don à la prison de Goma dans le cadre de la lutte contre la pandémie
Kenya - CJ Maraga says Judiciary will help decongest prisons
https://www.nation.co.ke/kenya/news/cj-maraga-says-judiciary-will-help-decongest-prisons-1923508
South Africa - Covid-19 in prisons: 89% of those infected have recovered, says correctional services dept
South Africa - DCS considering prison visits under Level 2 - but it will come with strict conditions
Ugandan prison closed after more than 150 inmates test positive for COVID-19
Americas
Brazil's squalid jails get even worse as COVID-19 spreads
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/covid-19-brazil-overcrowded-prisons-virus-spread-13042732
Guyana - Benn concerned at `unsatisfactory’ conditions at Lusignan Prison
US - Coronavirus cases in prisons are exploding. More people need to be let out.
US - 'Severe inhumanity': California prisons overwhelmed by Covid outbreaks and approaching fires
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/aug/21/california-fires-prisons-covid-outbreaks
US (California) - Inmate becomes 21st at Chino prison to die from COVID-19
https://www.dailybulletin.com/2020/08/22/inmate-becomes-21st-at-chino-prison-to-die-from-covid-19/
US - Paroled Inmates Still in Texas Prisons — and in Danger
https://www.reformaustin.org/coronavirus/texas-prisoners-face-more-danger-from-covid-19/
US (North Carolina) - Dozens of inmates barricaded themselves in housing area at NC prison Sunday
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/crime/article245175965.html
US (Florida) - Mock-Graveyard At Capitol Created To Demonstrate Inmate Deaths From COVID-19
https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/mock-graveyard-capitol-created-demonstrate-inmate-deaths-covid-19
US - Coronavirus numbers spike in Missouri prisons
https://www.ky3.com/2020/08/23/coronavirus-numbers-spike-in-missouri-prisons/
Asia
India - After two deaths, no more COVID-19 positive cases in Delhi prisons
India - Uttar Pradesh: Two dozen prisoners in Mathura district jail test positive for Covid-19
India - In the time of Covid-19, Tihar allows virtual meetings between prisoners, families
Sri Lanka - Govt. to release children currently with mothers in prison
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/08/22/govt-to-release-children-currently-with-mothers-in-prison/
Europe
Belgium - Les prisons, compliquées d’accès pour les avocats
https://plus.lesoir.be/320516/article/2020-08-23/les-prisons-compliquees-dacces-pour-les-avocats
England and Wales - Ban On Prison Visits Is A Breach Of Children's Rights, Lawyers Argue
Woman becomes first confirmed Covid-19 case in Irish prison system
https://www.thejournal.ie/first-prisoner-covid-positive-5182969-Aug2020/
Malta - Coronavirus victim died three months after leaving prison while battling cancer
https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/maltas-10th-coronavirus-victim-only-left-prison-in-may.813558
Scots prisoners ordered to wear face masks in latest coronavirus' legislation
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scots-prisoners-ordered-wear-face-22563799
Oceania
Australia - Children in Covid-hit Brisbane youth prison must be released immediately, advocates say
News 21 August
Pandemic slows aid ops, boosts prison access: Red Cross
https://www.macaubusiness.com/pandemic-slows-aid-ops-boosts-prison-access-red-cross/
Africa
COVID-19 Spreads Inside Ethiopian Detention Centers
https://www.voanews.com/covid-19-pandemic/covid-19-spreads-inside-ethiopian-detention-centers
Kenya - Panic grips Kericho GK Prison after 48 inmates, staff test positive for COVID-19
Malawi - 11 pardoned prisoners test positive for Covid-19
https://malawi24.com/2020/08/21/11-pardoned-prisoners-test-positive-for-covid-19/
South Africa - Westville Prison warder stabbings linked to request for Covid-19 test
Americas
Guadeloupe - Covid-19 : un détenu du centre pénitentiaire de Baie-Mahault testé positif.
Peru's prison system enduring the pandemic
https://www.wionews.com/videos/perus-prison-system-enduring-the-pandemic-321999
CDC: Mass coronavirus testing in US prisons finds 12 times more cases than with symptom-based testing
US - Washington families, attorneys ask state to further reduce prison population
US - Inmates Are Released As COVID-19 Spreads Inside Hawaii’s Largest Jail
US - W.Va Jails Still Overcrowded During Pandemic, Despite New Law For Pretrial Release
US (New York State) - Auburn Prison COVID-fighting Policies Inconsistent, Deficient, Inmates Say
US - I-Team: Parole for hundreds of Michigan prisoners held up by classes delayed by COVID-19
Asia
As Covid-19 Hits India’s Prisons, Expert Explains Why Decongestion Is Not Enough
https://www.huffingtonpost.in/entry/covid-19-prisons-decongestion_in_5f3e4dd6c5b66346158130cf
India - 27 Maharashtra jails record 1,478 COVID-19 cases; six deaths
Oceania
Australia - Young inmates locked in cells as authorities brace for a potential coronavirus outbreak at the Brisbane Youth Detention Centre
News 20 August
Africa
Cabo Verde: 68 new Covid-19 cases in last 24 hours including 25 at Praia jail
Nigeria: Covid-19 - Prisons Reopen in 28 States, FCT, Admits 9,900 Inmates
https://allafrica.com/stories/202008200117.html
South Africa: Foreign Nationals Are Being Held in Prison Past Their Release Dates
https://allafrica.com/stories/202008190835.html
South Africa - Popcru calls for increase in danger allowance
https://www.enca.com/news/popcru-calls-increase-danger-allowance
Americas
Inmates in Peru's Largest Prison Help Authorities Identify Others Infected by Coronavirus
Coronavirus Death Toll from U.S. Prisons and Jails Tops 1,000
US - Nine States Are Allowing Some Family Prison Visits
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/08/19/nine-states-are-allowing-some-family-prison-visits/
US - As Covid-19 cases in prisons climb, data on race remain largely obscured
https://www.statnews.com/2020/08/20/covid19-prisons-race-ethnicity-data/
US - 'Who is going to man the prison if everyone tests positive?' Corrections officer union warns of dual threat facing federal prisons
https://abcnews.go.com/US/man-prison-tests-positive-asks-penitentiary-staffer/story?id=72450615
US - Prison visitation ban extended in Florida
https://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2020/08/19/prison-visitation-ban-extended-in-florida
US - Folsom Prison COVID-19 cases double, now California’s largest active inmate outbreak
https://www.sacbee.com/news/coronavirus/article245089315.html
US - COVID-19 testing approach in Mississippi prisons ‘inadequate and dangerous,’ lawyer says
US - Mass testing revealed mass outbreaks in North Carolina prisons
https://carolinapublicpress.org/37287/mass-testing-reveals-outbreaks-in-north-carolina-prisons/
US - Temporary halt to transfers into Iowa prison system due to Covid
US Virgin Islands - Department of Justice Facilities Remain Closed to the Public
Asia
India - Covid breaks prison’s earnings
India - COVID-19: 928 prison inmates, 167 staff have tested positive in Andhra's prisons
Japan - Pandemic payout has jail inmates raising Hokkaido town population
http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/13652389
Europe
Early-release scheme for prisoners in England and Wales to end
France - Coronavirus à Marseille : Quatre cas confirmés à la prison des Baumettes
Oceania
Australia - No visits, two-week isolation for new inmates: Qld jails in Stage 2 COVID restrictions
News 19 August
Africa
Nigeria - FG opts for non-custodial sentencing to decongest prisons
https://www.thecable.ng/fg-to-implement-non-custodial-sentencing-as-prison-decongestion-measure
Senegal - Prison de Mbour : Une enquête menée à la maison carcérale
https://senego.com/prison-de-mbour-une-enquete-menee-a-la-maison-carcerale_1142353.html
Americas
COVID May Be Killing Hundreds of Prisoners in Mexico
https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/7kpq9g/covid-may-be-killing-hundreds-of-prisoners-in-mexico
US - Pennsylvania Prisons To Implement Modified Virtual Visits Sept. 1
https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2020/08/18/pennsylvania-prison-system-virtual-visits/
US (Texas) - Fifth woman dies from COVID-19 at Fort Worth prison; women say cases have not gone down
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/crime/article245037000.html
US - Oregon attorneys say a new phone policy is limiting confidential calls with clients in prison
https://www.opb.org/article/2020/08/18/oregon-department-corrections-prison-calls-restrictions/
US - Field Notes from the Inside: Women in Florida prisons share glimpses of COVID-19 lockdowns
https://www.scalawagmagazine.org/2020/08/covid-19-prison-lockdown-first-person/
US - Inmate video gives peek inside Alabama prison during quarantine
https://www.al.com/news/2020/08/inmate-video-gives-peek-inside-alabama-prison-during-quarantine.html
US - 76 Active Covid-19 Cases Reported Among Wyoming’s Prison Staff And Inmate Populations
US (Arizona) - 'We are not animals': Letter details how Tucson prison became COVID-19 hot spot
Europe
England and Wales - Inmates climb on prison roof and refuse to come down for six hours
https://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/news/18658398.inmates-climb-prison-roof-refuse-come-six-hours/
Scotland - Justice secretary talks of “worrying rise” in prison population during pandemic
News 18 August
Africa
Coronavirus banishes female inmates to far-flung jails in Malawi
https://news.trust.org/item/20200817113822-n45zz
Americas
Qatar provides medical equipment for El Salvador prison workers
Sint Maarten - Lawyers concerned about inmate health, safety after prison workers test positive
US (California) - Faulty thermometers, untrained screeners may have let COVID-19 into prisons, watchdog says
US (California) - Court considers releasing inmates vulnerable to COVID-19 from San Quentin
US (Kentucky) - Despite ‘substantial risk of serious harm,’ judge tosses KY inmates’ COVID-19 lawsuit
https://www.kentucky.com/news/coronavirus/article245021555.html
Asia
India - Prisons become breeding grounds for the coronavirus
https://frontline.thehindu.com/the-nation/tinderbox-prisons/article32296969.ece
India - 1,043 inmates, 302 jail staff test COVID-19 positive in Maharashtra prisons
Indonesia - 119,175 Inmates Get Remission on 75th Anniversary of Independence Day
Iran - Detained Activist Sheds Light on Evin Prison Conditions During the Pandemic
https://iran-hrm.com/index.php/2020/08/17/activist-sheds-light-on-evin-prison-conditions/
Nepal - Infection fears in overcrowded prisons and lockups after a man catches Covid-19 while in police detention in Kathmandu
Europe
Ireland - Visiting restrictions relaxed further for prisoners - except at Portlaoise and Midlands prisons
https://www.thejournal.ie/prisons-restrictions-visiting-kildare-laois-offaly-5177930-Aug2020/
Scots prisoners to get mobiles, video calls and internet access thanks to virus rules
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/mobiles-video-calls-even-internet-22536692
News 15 – 17 August
Africa
COVID-19: Malawi frees 499 inmates to reduce congestion
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/covid-19-malawi-frees-499-inmates-to-reduce-congestion/1942136
Zimbabwe - Covid-19 in prisons — urgent application filed
https://dailynews.co.zw/covid-19-in-prisons-urgent-application-filed/
Americas
Canada - Half marathon raises money to help current, former prisoners stay safe during pandemic
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/half-marathon-prison-jail-covid-19-1.5688470
Canada - Three staff members test positive for COVID-19 at Okanagan prison
https://bc.ctvnews.ca/three-staff-members-test-positive-for-covid-19-at-okanagan-prison-1.5065384
US - Nebraska jails, prisons struggle to halt coronavirus spread
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Nebraska-jails-prisons-struggle-to-halt-15484432.php
US (Hawaii) - Supreme Court orders OCCC jail inmate release due to COVID-19
https://www.kitv.com/story/42501682/supreme-court-orders-prisonjail-inmate-release-due-to-covid19
US - Pennsylvania prisons to upgrade video visitation for inmates
US - Coronavirus cases in Florida prisons jump 165 percent over past month
https://theapopkavoice.com/coronavirus-cases-in-florida-prisons-jump-165-percent-over-past-month/
Asia
India - Covid-19 boost: Delhi's Tihar Jail almost doubles wages of its inmates
India - Thiruvananthapuram central prison remains COVID-19 hotbed as 145 inmates test positive in a day
India - Maharashtra jail Covid case tally touches 1,000
India - 824 prisoners test Covid positive in Andhra jails
Iran Opens New Case on Prisoners over COVID-19 Pandemic Protests
72 Detained Iran Protesters Go on Hunger Strike Over Coronavirus Fears
https://iran-hrm.com/index.php/2020/08/16/prisoners-go-on-hunger-strike-over-coronavirus-fears/
Nepal - Four inmates test positive for COVID-19 in Jhumka Prison
Philippines - More than 58,000 prisoners released during pandemic
https://www.bworldonline.com/more-than-58000-prisoners-released-during-pandemic/
Europe
Belgium - Covid-19: New prison rule is ‘a breach of human rights’
Greece Restricts Jail and Prison Visitations to Limit Spread of Coronavirus
Oceania
COVID-19: Over 6,650 detainees in the Pacific Region receive assistance
https://reliefweb.int/report/fiji/covid-19-over-6650-detainees-pacific-region-receive-assistance
News 14 August
Africa
Kenya - Life in prison lonelier as corona stops visits, limits interaction
South Africa - Fear as 118 inmates test positive for Covid-19 at Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Pretoria
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 update: 78 new cases in B.C., and another prison outbreak announced
Canada - Nova Scotia prisons released 41% of inmates during pandemic
https://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/nova-scotia-prisons-released-41-of-inmates-during-pandemic-1.5063557
Prisons as pandemic super-spreaders: Latin American church raises alarm
Trinidad - Third prison officer has covid19, 77 in quarantine
https://newsday.co.tt/2020/08/13/third-prison-officer-has-covid19-77-in-quarantine/
US - Coronavirus surges again in Michigan prisons, with biggest outbreak since spring
US - Indiana Prisons See August Spike In COVID-19 Cases
https://www.wglt.org/post/indiana-prisons-see-august-spike-covid-19-cases#stream/0
US - Connecticut inmate Daniel Ocasio hangs himself with prison-issued coronavirus face mask amid massive outbreak
US (California) - Bad design kills: Why COVID-19 spread like wildfire at one of America’s worst prisons
Asia
Bangladesh - 329 prisoners to be released
http://www.unb.com.bd/category/Bangladesh/329-prisoners-to-be-released/55955
India - Maharashtra prisons COVID count stands at 1,000 for inmates, 292 for jail staff
India - 215 prisoners test positive for COVID-19 in Bihar's Araria jail
India - COVID infections on the rise in Odisha jails
https://www.thestatesman.com/cities/bhubaneshwar/covid-infections-rise-odisha-jails-1502916775.html
1 in 5 at Kashmir jail tests positive as India COVID-19 cases soar
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-coronavirus-india-kashmir-prison-jail-13021442
Iran - Crisis in Taybad Prison: Infection of Guards Wreaks Havoc Among Inmates
Nepal - Female inmates of Nepalgunj prison sent to Bardiya and Dailekh
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/female-inmates-of-nepalgunj-prison-sent-to-bardiya-and-dailekh/
News 13 August
Africa
South Africa - Deaths of prisoners spark fears of Covid-19 outbreak at Kgosi Mampuru
Zimbabwe - Prisoners get PPEs to combat Covid-19 spread
https://www.pazimbabwe.com/zimbabwe-62994-prisoners-get-ppes-to-combat-covid-19-spread.html
Americas
Canada - Provincial jails released thousands of inmates amid calls to slow the spread of COVID-19
Canada - COVID-19: B.C., Ontario, Quebec only provinces with federal prisoners tested positive for virus
US - ‘Con Air’ Is Spreading COVID-19 All Over the Federal Prison System
US (California) - Employee dies and over 100 inmates infected with coronavirus at Folsom State Prison
https://www.sacbee.com/news/coronavirus/article244906202.html
US (Texas) - Despite Calls To Lower Prison Populations Amid COVID-19, Some Freeze Early Release Programs
US - Colorado coronavirus outbreaks continue to grow in prisons, though more slowly
https://www.denverpost.com/2020/08/12/colorado-coronavirus-covid-outbreaks-prisons/
US - A COVID Outbreak Prompts Scrutiny of Vermont’s Private Prison Contract
US (Maryland) - Md. senators make 19 recommendations to protect prisoners from COVID-19
US Virgin Islands - Five Prison Officers on St. Croix Sent Home to Quarantine After Coming In Contact With Covid-19-Infected People, B.O.C. Says
Asia
India - Thiruvananthapuram prison on high alert after 59 inmates test positive for COVID-19
India - Bail, parole time of 450 inmates of Chandigarh’s Model Jail extended by 4-7 weeks
Sri Lanka - Prison visits allowed again from Saturday
https://island.lk/prison-visits-allowed-again-from-saturday/
Europe
FOI reveals PPE disagreement between Jersey Prison Governor and Home Affairs
Scotland - Second Low Moss prison staff member tests positive for covid-19
https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/low-moss-prison-covid-19-18760141
Oceania
New Zealand - Coronavirus: Corrections halts visitors to Auckland prisons
News 12 August
Africa
In Mali's largest prison, coronavirus kept at bay
https://www.rfi.fr/en/wires/20200812-malis-largest-prison-coronavirus-kept-bay
Americas
Belize - Central Prison suspends inmate visits due to COVID-19 spike
Trinidad - Prison officers asked to be careful after COVID-19 case
https://www.looptt.com/content/prison-officers-asked-be-careful-after-covid-19-case
US - Lawmakers introduce bill to improve documentation of COVID-19 cases in prisons
US - Hawaii Corrections Workers Fear Infection As COVID-19 Outbreak Grows
US - San Quentin’s coronavirus outbreak shows why ‘herd immunity’ could mean disaster
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-08-11/san-quentin-coronavirus-herd-immunity-covid-19
US - Tenth Delaware prisoner dies from COVID-19, other complications
US - Faulty Cell Locks Are a Problem in Texas Prisons—Especially During COVID-19
https://www.texasmonthly.com/news/prison-cell-locks-broken-texas/
US - Florida Inmate COVID-19 Death Toll Hits 70
https://miami.cbslocal.com/2020/08/11/florida-inmate-covid-19-death-toll-hits-70/
US (California) - Hundreds stuck in SD jails awaiting trials that are on-hold amid COVID-19 crisis
Asia
India - As more cops & prison staff test positive, states come up with Plan B
India - Punjab to release over 3,500 prisoners
India - Boiled eggs, kadha for Covid-positive prisoners
Iran - Twelve inmates infected with Covid-19 from single Evin ward
Europe
France - Nancy : un détenu de la prison détecté positif au Covid-19, 120 prisonniers confinés
Scotland - Prison staff ‘not always following social distancing guidelines’
Spain - Prison modules "isolated" because of coronavirus cases
Oceania
Australia - Protecting mental health in prisons during COVID
https://www.miragenews.com/protecting-mental-health-in-prisons-during-covid/
Red Cross steps up for Pacific prison detainees
News 11 August
Africa
NBCC, Nestlé Kenya, Rotary Club Partner To Clean Prisons
https://sokodirectory.com/2020/08/nbcc-nestle-kenya-rotary-club-partner-to-clean-prisons/
Malawi prison registers first Covid-19 death
https://www.nyasatimes.com/malawi-prison-registers-first-covid-19-death/
Americas
Prison and the pandemic: The lethal cocktail used by the Nicaraguan government against those who criticize them
https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2020/08/carcel-covid19-coctel-letal-gobierno-nicaragua/
US - Jail, Prison Population Decline Slows in New Analysis
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/08/10/jail-and-prison-population-drops-slow-in-new-analysis/
US (New York State) - DOCCS reports 25% increase in COVID-19 cases after facility-wide testing in 4 prisons
US - As coronavirus spreads in Washington’s prisons, here’s what a state watchdog says needs to change
US - 132 Oklahoma Prisoners Infected With COVID-19
https://www.kosu.org/post/132-oklahoma-prisoners-infected-covid-19
US (Arizona) - Prisoners worry as COVID-19 spreads behind bars
Asia
Bangladesh - Covid-19: US assistance for prison authorities
India - Overcrowded prisons in Kashmir turn into COVID-19 epicentres: 35 fresh cases reported in Srinagar jail
Europe
Ireland - Prisons see huge increase in ‘hooch’ seizures during lockdown
News 8-10 August
COVID Has Reduced Prison Populations Around the World—Creating a Rare Chance to Fix the System
Africa
Guinea - Le Covid-19 s'étend à Labé : Un cas enregistré à la prison civile
Uganda's Prisoner Population Surges, Raising Fears of COVID-19 Outbreak
Zimbabwe - Govt decongests prisons, bans inmates’ visits
https://www.chronicle.co.zw/govt-decongests-prisons-bans-inmates-visits/
Americas
Canada - Coronavirus outbreaks declared over in federal prisons, staff prepare for ‘new normal’
https://globalnews.ca/news/7259411/coroanvirus-outbreaks-over-federal-prisons/
Canada - Quarantine is 'hell': Edmonton Remand Centre COVID-19 guidelines poorly carried out, former inmate says
St Vincent & the Grenadines - Prison population records a decrease over last four months
Prison officers quarantined in Tobago after contact with COVID-19 case
http://www.looptt.com/content/prison-officers-quarantined-tobago-after-contact-covid-19-case
US - As Bureau of Prisons Enters “Phase 9” Of COVID-19 Plan, BOP Staff Wonder If There Is A Real Plan
US (Texas) - Inside the federal prison where three out of every four inmates have tested positive for coronavirus
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/08/08/us/federal-prison-coronavirus-outbreak-invs/index.html
US - Just One Texas Prison Has Zero COVID Cases—and It's All Because of the Warden
https://www.newsweek.com/just-one-texas-prison-has-zero-covid-cases-its-all-because-warden-1523633
US - Amid COVID-19, California releases some inmates doing time for murder. Advocates push to free more
US (Florida) - Nearly 11,000 Inmates Hit By COVID-19
https://miami.cbslocal.com/2020/08/09/nearly-11000-inmates-covid-19/
Asia
India - COVID-19: Alarm as 248 out of 350 prisoners in Jharkhand jail test positive
India - Panel wants jails further decongested, suggests releasing another ‘4000-5000’
Malaysia - Prisons swell with 16,000 extra inmates
https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2020/08/08/prisons-swell-with-16000-extra-inmates/
Pakistan - Dispatches from detention: What is it like to be imprisoned during a pandemic?
Sri Lanka - Prisons to allow visitors again
http://www.dailynews.lk/2020/08/10/local/225479/prisons-allow-visitors-again
Europe
Germany pays a excessive worth for virus-free prisons – WELT
https://pledgetimes.com/germany-pays-a-excessive-worth-for-virus-free-prisons-welt/
Malta - Prison Employee Tests Positive For COVID-19 After Escorting Inmate To Hospital
Scotland - Coronavirus: About 40 prison staff isolating after outbreak
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-53699089
The loss of UK prisoners' rights is the forgotten injustice of the Covid-19 crisis
Oceania
Australia - Coronavirus triggers drop in prisoner numbers and an opportunity to reinvent the criminal justice system, lawyers say
Australia (NSW) - Corrective Services take precautions to make Goulburn jail COVID safe
News 7 August
Africa
Kenya - Health officials worried over rising Covid-19 infections in prisons
https://www.nation.co.ke/kenya/counties/prisons-grapple-with-covid-19-cases-1914064
South Africa - Freeing those jailed for substance offences ‘will resolve SA prison overcrowding’
Americas
U.S. Jail Population Decreased by 22% During COVID-19
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/08/06/u-s-jail-population-decreased-by-22-during-covid-19/
US - As the coronavirus rages in prisons, ethical issues of crime and punishment become more compelling
US - Federal Bureau of Prisons Spent $3M on Unproven UV Coronavirus Sanitizing Portals
US - California prison workers file grievance accusing CDCR of failing to prevent coronavirus outbreaks
US - COVID cases climb in Ohio prisons, worrying families and those employed to serve prisoners
US - As New York Prisons Open to Visitors Again, Mixed Emotions Run High
https://jjie.org/2020/08/06/as-new-york-prisons-open-to-visitors-again-mixed-emotions-run-high/
As Prisons Across US Report Surge in Covid-19 Cases, Supreme Court Rules Jail Does Not Have to Provide Basic Protections to Inmates
US (Florida) - Medical oversight prison agency stops visits amid coronavirus
US - Florida inmate COVID-19 cases top 9,800
https://www.news4jax.com/news/florida/2020/08/06/florida-inmate-covid-19-cases-top-9800/
US (Arizona) - Prison visitations suspended again through September 13 due to COVID-19
US (Texas) - Geriatric inmates died waiting for state to address COVID concerns, lawyer says in trial closing
Asia
India - Andhra Pradesh’s biggest prison reports 247 coronavirus cases
Europe
Turkey - CHP deputy: COVID-19 statistics for prisons not announced for 48 days
https://stockholmcf.org/chp-deputy-covid-19-statistics-for-prisons-not-announced-for-48-days/
Oceania
COVID-19: Over 6,650 Detainees In The Pacific Region Receive Assistance
News 6 August
Africa
Malawi human rights groups warn of Covid deaths in packed prisons
Malawi to decongest prisons with Covid-19 cases rising fast among inmates
Americas
Canada - Remember the chatter about releasing inmates early to ease spread of COVID-19? It didn’t happen
Canada - Bordeaux jail not following COVID-19 public health guidelines
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/bordeaux-detention-jail-inmates-masks-1.5673976
US - California Ups COVID-19 Early Inmate Release Estimate Amid Objections
US - After Prison Population Increase, the ACLU of Wisconsin Calls on Leadership to Reduce Incarcerated Population During Pandemic
US - Prisons Are The Public Health Crisis Connecticut Won’t Acknowledge
https://theappeal.org/prisons-are-the-public-health-crisis-connecticut-wont-acknowledge/
US - Prisoner turnover at one jail linked to 15% of Chicago covid cases
https://en.brinkwire.com/us/prisoner-turnover-at-one-jail-linked-to-15-of-chicago-covid-cases/
US (Michigan) - Coronavirus outbreak at Muskegon prison increases to more than 150 inmates
US - Ninth Delaware prisoner dies of COVID-19
Asia
India - Jharkhand govt to declare all jails as containment zones
India - Assam: 31 Jails Hit By Covid-19, 1300 Prisoners Infected
https://newslivetv.com/assam-31-jails-hit-by-covid-19-1300-prisoners-infected/
Thirty Hunger Striking Detainees Protest Poor Conditions in Israeli Jails
https://imemc.org/article/thirty-hunger-striking-detainees-protest-poor-conditions-in-israeli-jails/
Oceania
Australia - Tasmanian prisoner numbers stable through COVID-19 pandemic
https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/6866700/prisoner-numbers-stable-through-pandemic/?cs=87
News 5 August
Africa
Malawi: Govt Sets Aside Money for Malawi Prison Warders Risk Allowances Amid Covid-19
https://allafrica.com/stories/202008041015.html
South Africa - Govt Not Doing Enough To Prevent Covid-19 Cases, Deaths In Prisons – Popcru
Uganda - Panic as Gulu inmates test positive for Covid-19
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 further complicates already-complex jailhouse beating case
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/covid-complicates-jailhouse-beating-case-1.5673979
US - COVID-19 should finally end the inhumane practice of solitary confinement
US - More than 500 inmates at Arizona prison test positive for COVID-19
US - Following a New Outbreak at an Eastern Oregon Prison, Active COVID-19 Cases Among Oregon Inmates Near 500
US - San Quentin faces California's deadliest prison outbreak after latest Covid fatalities
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/aug/04/san-quentin-covid-19-deaths-prison-outbreak
US - He had a ‘heart of gold’: Florida corrections officer is second to die of COVID-19
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/special-reports/florida-prisons/article244726087.html
Asia
India - 40 inmates, 14 staffers test positive at Birsa Munda Central Prison
India - In 24 hours, over 100 inmates of Dibrugarh jail test Covid-19 positive
UAE - 1,145 Dubai prisoners fly home as cops sponsor tickets worth Dh1.47 million
News 4 August
Africa
South Africa - Correctional Services refutes allegations around Covid-19 parole
South Africa - Correctional Facilities Lose 74 Staff, Inmates To Coronavirus
https://ewn.co.za/2020/08/03/correctional-facilities-lose-74-staff-inmates-to-coronavirus
Americas
Nicaragua's jailed activists face a coronavirus death sentence
As Coronavirus Deaths Spike in Prisons, Americans Want Offenders Moved Out
https://www.newsweek.com/coronavirus-deaths-spike-prisons-americans-want-offenders-moved-out-1522303
US - Jails can spread coronavirus to nearby communities, study finds
US - How California reduced its inmate population to a 30-year low
US (Georgia) - Inmates at Prison Plagued by COVID Live-Streamed Uprising on Smuggled Cell Phones
US (New York) - Brooklyn Families Upset With COVID-19 Restrictions During Prison Visitations
US - Inmates sent to Covid hot spot in central Washington to relieve overcrowding at their prison; others sleep on floor
Asia
India - COVID-19, Political Prisoners, and the Overcrowding of Prisons
https://www.jurist.org/commentary/2020/08/chakravarty-rajkhowa-covid19-prisonovercrowding/
India - 41 inmates, staff at Andhra Pradesh’s biggest jail Rajamahendravaram Central Prison contract COVID-19
Europe
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Ex-offenders' internships hit by pandemic
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-somerset-53607440
Oceania
Australia - NSW prison population drops 11 per cent, youth detention down by 27 per cent
News 1-3 August
Africa
Uganda - Kitgum prison turned into Covid-19 quarantine center for inmates
https://www.independent.co.ug/kitgum-prison-turned-into-covid-19-quarantine-center-for-inmates/
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison officer tests positive for Covid
US - Frail inmates could be sent home to prevent the spread of covid-19. Instead, some are dying in federal prisons.
US - California prison population falls to 30-year low
https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/california-prison-population-falls-to-30-year-low
US (Florida) - Prison population plummets amid pandemic
https://floridapolitics.com/archives/354060-prison-population-plummets-amid-pandemic
US - New Jersey Bill Ready for Governor’s Signature Will Release 3,000 More Prison Inmates
US - ‘It’s hell living there’: Texas inmates say they are battling COVID-19 in prisons with no A/C
US - NY prison visitations to resume next week
https://www.syracuse.com/coronavirus/2020/07/ny-prison-visitations-to-resume-next-week.html
US - 23 Ohio death row inmates test positive for COVID-19
US - Alabama's prison system sees 200+ cases of COVID-19 among inmate population
Asia
India - After state directives, temporary prisons in Maharashtra double up as isolation, Covid care facilities
India - Over 70 inmates at Nellore Central Prison test COVID-19 positive
Iran’s prisons ‘catastrophically unequipped’ to deal with COVID-19: Amnesty
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1713181/middle-east
Covid-19: Singapore reports 226 new cases, including prison inmate
UAE - Coronavirus: Dubai prisoners tell of life behind bars during a pandemic
Europe
Ban on prison visits in England and Wales breaches children's rights, say lawyers
England and Wales - Remote prison visits for solicitors 'not available for weeks'
New statistics on deaths and self-harm 'expose perilous state of prisons' in England
http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/29830
Iceland - Swimming Pools to Remain Open; New Restrictions on Prison and Nursing Home Visits
Scots prisons allow visits from today but hugs are banned
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/no-hugs-allowed-scots-prison-22458874
Oceania
Australia - Parklea inmate positive, 18 NSW cases
https://www.aap.com.au/tough-nsw-gym-limits-qld-closes-to-sydney-2/
News 31 July
Africa
UNHCR donates COVID-19 materials to Malawi Prison Services
https://malawi24.com/2020/07/30/unhcr-donates-covid-19-materials-to-malawi-prison-services/
South Africa - Prisoners fear for their lives at Sun City as Covid-19 wave spreads
Americas
At least 735 COVID-19 deaths confirmed in US prison system
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/07/31/pris-j31.html
US - ‘Dozens of Prisons’ Targeted in COVID-19 Civil Rights Lawsuits
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/07/30/civil-rights-lawsuits-target-prison-response-to-pandemic/
US (California) - Coronavirus: San Quentin prison facing 'volcano' of infections, disease expert warns
US (California) - An inmate tested positive for COVID-19. Prison staff housed him with uninfected inmates, he says
US - Nebraska prisons see success against COVID-19
https://nebraska.tv/news/local/nebraska-prisons-see-success-against-covid-19
US - Should N.Y. Be Jailing Parolees for Minor Lapses During a Pandemic?
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/31/nyregion/ny-parole-violations.html
US (New York State) - Only 14 Percent Of State Prison Inmates Have Been Tested For COVID-19, Raising Risks Of Large Outbreak
https://gothamist.com/news/state-prison-inmates-covid-19-test-scant
US - Hundreds sick with COVID-19 at George County Correctional Facility in Mississippi
Asia
Iran: Leaked official letters reveal state denial of COVID-19 crisis in prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Nearly 1,000 prisoners raise Covid risk after being released during pandemic without a home to go to
Ireland - Keeping COVID-19 out of prisons came at ‘significant cost’ to prisoners’ mental health and wellbeing
News 30 July
Africa
Cameroon: Bamenda prison receives FCFA One million to cushion COVID-19 effects
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI pardons more than 1,000 prisoners
https://africa.cgtn.com/2020/07/30/moroccos-king-mohammed-vi-pardons-more-than-1000-prisoners/
60 Pardoned Nigerian Prisoners Stranded in Ethiopia
Zimbabwe urged to release more prisoners
https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-189611.html
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - COVID-19: Prison visits suspended
http://www.looptt.com/content/covid-19-prison-visits-suspended
US - Experts discuss how COVID-19 spreads through prisons to nearby communities
US (Missouri) - Families’ mistrust of prison system grows as virus spreads
US - California youth prison halts intakes amid COVID-19 outbreak
US - COVID-19 Spread In Arkansas Prisons Highest In U.S. As Corrections Cases Rise
US - Four of largest ongoing COVID-19 outbreaks in Colorado are in prisons, jails
https://www.denverpost.com/2020/07/29/colorado-covid-outbreaks-prisons-jails/
US - About 20% of N.J. Prisoners Could Be Freed to Avoid Virus
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/30/nyregion/New-jersey-inmate-release-Covid.html
Asia
Bangladesh: Protection of detainees continues amid COVID-19
https://reliefweb.int/report/bangladesh/bangladesh-protection-detainees-continues-amid-covid-19
India - COVID-19: JK admin extends by 8 weeks parole given to prisoners
Europe
Ireland - Reform body fears return to prison overcrowding as inmate numbers fall during pandemic
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40024439.html
Oceania
Australia - Inmates charged over Cessnock prison riot, Sydney jail records state's first COVID-19 case
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-30/21-inmates-charged-over-drug-withdrawal-prison-riot/12506438
Australia - Grant bail for non-violent offences to help prevent COVID-19 prison outbreak
News 29 July
Africa
Lack Of Adequate Safety Materials Raises Concern over COVID-19 Prevention in Liberia’s Prison Facilities
South Africa - COVID-19: Correctional services encouraged by recovery rate
https://www.enca.com/news/Correctional-services-encouraged-recovery-rate
South Africa - Pietermaritzburg prisoners threaten hunger strike
https://www.newframe.com/pietermaritzburg-prisoners-threaten-hunger-strike/
Coronavirus - South Sudan: Female prisoners in Wau receive medicines, hygiene kits thanks to UNMISS peacekeepers from Bangladesh
Uganda - Pece prison placed under quarantine as inmate tests positive for COVID-19
Americas
Bahamas - Prison officer among COVID cases, facility remains virus-free
https://ewnews.com/prison-officer-among-covid-cases-facility-remains-virus-free
US (New York State) - Prison Visitation in the Era of COVID-19
https://therivernewsroom.com/prison-visitation-coronavirus-new-york/
US - NY prisons lag behind other states in COVID-19 testing, advocates say
US (Florida) - Infected prison inmates nearing 7,000
https://floridapolitics.com/archives/353086-infected-prison-inmates-nearing-7000
US - Testing reveals coronavirus cases in Alaska’s prisons and jails but no clusters yet, officials say
US (Vermont) - COVID-19 Reduced Incarceration To Levels Reformers Had Only Dreamed Of. Will It Last?
Asia
India - Data | Overcrowded jails and the COVID-19 contagion
https://www.thehindu.com/data/at-least-2191-prison-inmates-infected-by-covid-19/article32218622.ece
India - Covid-19: Odisha Releases Over 16,000 Prisoners To Decongest Jails
India - Covid count in Delhi prisons stands at 221
https://www.bignewsnetwork.com/news/265920136/covid-count-in-delhi-prisons-stands-at-221
Iran - Appalling conditions at the Great Tehran Penitentiary
https://iran-hrm.com/index.php/2020/07/28/appalling-conditions-at-the-greater-tehran-penitentiary/
Philippines - ‘Stop transfers of convicted persons to BuCor to prevent COVID-19 spread’ — SC
Europe
Ireland - Prison diaries give insight into bleak conditions during pandemic
Oceania
Australia (Queensland) - Personal visits to SEQ prisons suspended
https://www.miragenews.com/personal-visits-to-seq-prisons-suspended/
News 28 July
Africa
Malawi Government Under Pressure to Pardon COVID-19 Prisoners
https://www.voanews.com/africa/malawi-government-under-pressure-pardon-covid-19-prisoners
Senegal - Covid-19 : 10 détenus et 2 gardiens infectés à la prison de Ziguinchor
https://www.seneweb.com/news/Sante/covid-19-10-detenus-et-2-gardiens-infect_n_324613.html
South Africa - Prisons still overcrowded despite special parole for thousands to curb Covid-19 spread
South Africa - Nearly 5,000 Confirmed Covid-19 Cases At Correctional Facilities
https://ewn.co.za/2020/07/27/nearly-5-000-confirmed-covid-19-cases-at-correctional-facilities
Americas
Inmates at Bolivia Prison Stage Uprising Over Lack of Medical Services Amid Suspected Coronavirus Deaths
US prison population falls sharply as pandemic disrupts justice system
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jul/27/us-prison-population-falls-sharply-coronavirus
US - Federal prisons reach grim milestone: 100 inmate deaths from coronavirus
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/covid-deaths-100-inmates-federal-prisons-coronavirus/
How COVID-19 Jail Releases Are Impacting US Crime Rate
https://www.voanews.com/covid-19-pandemic/how-covid-19-jail-releases-are-impacting-us-crime-rate
US - Coronavirus: Can this California prison save itself from Covid-19?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-53476208
US - Protesters chain themselves to fence at Newsom's home as California prison deaths mount
US - Florida prison COVID spike: ‘They are just issuing death sentences'
US - At Florida prisons without air conditioning, masks add discomfort to ‘unbearably hot’ summer
US (Utah) - As Prisons Cancel Visitation, The Phone Line Becomes A Life Line
https://www.kunc.org/post/prisons-cancel-visitation-phone-line-becomes-life-line#stream/0
Asia
India - Our country's prisons are a ticking coronavirus time bomb
India - Tihar Jail May Allow Virtual Visits by Families of Inmates Soon Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
Europe
England and Wales - Families can now visit Forest Bank prisoners for first time in four months - despite it remaining 'high risk'
Switzerland - Coronavirus: un détenu a été testé positif dans une prison du canton de Zoug
Oceania
Australia (NSW) - Visitor Ban Means Drones Now Smuggling Drugs Into Prisons
https://australianaviation.com.au/2020/07/visitor-ban-means-drones-now-smuggling-drugs-into-prisons/
News 25 – 27 July
Africa
Malawi: Chakwera Pardons Covid-19 Inmate - Malawi Prisons Made 'Area of Intervention'
https://allafrica.com/stories/202007240595.html
Nigeria - COVID-19: Release minors from prisons now, HPWI tasks Buhari, Governors
https://guardian.ng/news/covid-19-release-minors-from-prisons-now-hpwi-tasks-buhari-governors/
South Africa - Number of awaiting-trial prisoners increases under lockdown
South Africa - SA prisoners drink from dustbins in hazardous Limpopo jail
https://www.cajnewsafrica.com/2020/07/25/sa-prisoners-drink-from-dustbins-in-hazardous-limpopo-jail/
South Africa - Nearly 400 COVID-19 cases recorded in KZN prisons
https://www.ecr.co.za/coronavirus-be-informed/nearly-400-covid-19-cases-recorded-kzn-prisons/
Americas
Canada - During the pandemic, one prison crisis was eased – but another one got worse
US - How COVID-19 Outbreaks in Prisons Are Making the Pandemic Worse for Everyone
US (North Carolina) - 2 more N.C. prison inmates die from COVID-19 complications
https://wcti12.com/news/state-news/2-more-nc-prison-inmates-die-from-covid-19-complications
US - ‘Egregious:’ Officials say California prison transfers, testing may be fueling COVID-19 outbreak
https://www.sacbee.com/news/coronavirus/article244447307.html
US - Active COVID-19 cases in Michigan prisons are down, but experts say threat isn't over
US - Growing Inmate Numbers Fuel COVID-19 Concerns In Montana's Already Crowded Jails
US - Florida Inmate COVID-19 Cases Top 5,000
https://miami.cbslocal.com/2020/07/25/florida-inmate-covid-19-cases-top-5000/
US - With 1,100 COVID-19 cases in Maryland prisons, critics say state is not doing enough
https://wjla.com/news/local/maryland-prisons-covid
US - Why NYS is releasing so few inmates during the pandemic
https://news.wbfo.org/post/why-nys-releasing-so-few-inmates-during-pandemic
Asia
Bangladesh - First prisons officer dies of COVID-19
https://www.newagebd.net/article/112153/first-prisons-officer-dies-of-covid-19
India - Jails racing against time in fight against coronavirus
India - Virus spread in UP jails: 228 test positive in Ballia
https://www.dailypioneer.com/2020/india/virus-spread-in-up-jails--228-test-positive-in-ballia.html
Israeli Supreme Court: Prisons not mandated to enforce social distancing
Mass COVID-19 screenings begin in Pakistan provincial prisons
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1710601/world
Pakistan - Lahore: 101-year-old inmate files bail plea over health concerns
https://www.samaa.tv/news/pakistan/2020/07/101-year-old-inmate-bail/
Philippines - CHR investigating reported deaths inside prisons
https://mb.com.ph/2020/07/27/chr-investigating-reported-deaths-inside-prisons/
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners effectively held in solitary confinement during coronavirus pandemic, MPs told
England and Wales - Fewer riots during lockdown
https://insidetime.org/fewer-riots-during-lockdown/
Northern Ireland - Jailhouse shock: Coronavirus fears over karaoke party at Belfast's Hydebank
Scots prison visits to start up again next week four months after being banned over coronavirus fears
https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/5849237/prison-jail-visits-scotland/
Fears of overcrowding in Scottish prisons as justice system recovers after Covid-19 crisis
Oceania
Australia - WA prison union fears more major riots
https://www.nambuccaguardian.com.au/story/6852117/wa-prison-union-fears-more-major-riots/?cs=9397
Papua New Guinea – Jails Mull Covid-19 Guidelines
https://postcourier.com.pg/jails-mull-covid-19-guidelines/
News 24 July
Africa
Congo-Kinshasa: Kasaï - Monusco Facilitates the Holding of Mobile Court Hearings to Decongest Prisons in Tshikapa
https://allafrica.com/stories/202007230927.html
Malawi: 13 Inmates Test Positive for Covid-19 At Nkhata Bay Prison
https://allafrica.com/stories/202007240061.html
Americas
US - Incarcerated people look to Senate to cap prison phone rates
https://www.dailyleader.com/2020/07/23/incarcerated-people-look-to-senate-to-cap-prison-phone-rates/
US - Watchdog chastises federal prison in California for its handling of COVID-19
US - California prisons must set aside space for COVID-19 patients, judge orders
US - The coronavirus is keeping Texas prisoners who've been approved for parole behind bars
https://www.texastribune.org/2020/07/23/texas-prisons-coronavirus-parole/
US - COVID-19 inmate toll nears 1,000 at North Florida prison
https://floridapolitics.com/archives/351695-covid-19-inmate-toll-nears-1000-at-north-florida-prison
US - Some Michigan prisons will soon offer video calls with loved ones
US - Prison population in N.J. dropping amid coronavirus outbreak. Here’s what the data shows.
US - Visitation Suspended At All Oklahoma Prisons Due To COVID-19 Outbreak
Asia
India - UP: 120 inmates at Jhansi prison test COVID-19 positive
India - Growing Covid cases put jails in Odisha under scanner
India - COVID-19: Assam to release 376 prisoners to decongest jails
India - Interim bails, paroles extended to prevent COVID-19 spread in jails, says HC
Malaysia - Covid-19 tests conducted on Tawau Prison Dept staff following positive case
Philippines - 18 COVID-19-infected Bulacan inmates in isolation
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1311145/18-covid-19-infected-bulacan-inmates-in-isolation
Europe
British Prisoners And Their Families—The Forgotten Victims Of COVID-19
Oceania
Australia - Government in talks about releasing low-risk inmates due to coronavirus in Victorian prisons
News 23 July
Africa
Prisoners in the DR Congo: Forgotten and at risk in the pandemic
https://observers.france24.com/en/20200722-prisoners-dr-congo-forgotten-risk-pandemic
HRW: 14 Egyptians Have Died of COVID-19 in Overcrowded Prison
Nigeria - COVID-19: Kogi judiciary reviews strategy for prison decongestion
https://dailypost.ng/2020/07/22/covid-19-kogi-judiciary-reviews-strategy-for-prison-decongestion/
Zimbabwe - Covid-19 in prisons: A disaster
https://dailynews.co.zw/covid-19-in-prisons-a-disaster/
Americas
Canada - Prisoners go on hunger strike at Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre
https://globalnews.ca/news/7205618/ottawa-carleton-prison-hunger-strike/
Coronavirus Unrest Sparks Surge in Riots in Latin America’s Prisons
https://www.insightcrime.org/news/analysis/coronavirus-unrest-prison-riots/
US - Pandemic lawsuits from voters, worshipers, prisoners meet roadblock at Supreme Court
US (California) - Judge orders release of vulnerable inmates at Lompoc prisons hit by virus
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-07-22/judge-orders-release-some-lompoc-prison-inmates
US - Judge Approves COVID-19 Connecticut Prison Lawsuit Settlement Over Inmate Objections
US - Surge in Florida inmate COVID-19 cases spurs calls for help
https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/surge-in-florida-inmate-covid-19-cases-spurs-calls-for-help
US - Advocates raise alarms as COVID-19 cases rise inside Colorado’s juvenile prisons
https://www.denverpost.com/2020/07/22/covid-cases-rise-colorado-youth-detention-centers/
US - Coronavirus emptied Michigan’s jails without crime surge. Time for reform?
Asia
India - Meghalaya State Legal Service Authority reviews measures to stop COVID19 spread in jails
Iran - Shocking Conditions Inside Overcrowded Women’s Ward of Sepidar Prison
Philippines - DOJ: 476 inmates died in first half of 2020 Senators want BuCor chief out https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/07/23/2030001/doj-476-inmates-died-first-half-2020-senators-want-bucor-chief-out
Europe
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Children denied contact with parents in prison
Oceania
Australia - Lockdown lifted at four Victorian prisons as inmates return negative test results for coronavirus
News 22 July
Africa
COVID-19 rampant in Madagascar's prisons: official
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-07/22/c_139230337.htm
South Africa - Western Cape prison without water for over a week
Americas
Covid-19: Prisons exposed in Brazil’s crisis
https://www.bmj.com/content/370/bmj.m2884
Canada - Prisons should consider safe release as a pandemic health measure: advocate
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/safe-release-covid-19-1.5656861
US - COVID-19 sweeps through another Kentucky prison, killing 3 and infecting 182
https://www.kentucky.com/news/coronavirus/article244374692.html
US - 81 incarcerated people have been moved from New Orleans jail to other jails throughout the state, despite suspension of routine transfers
US - America's 3 Largest Coronavirus Prison Outbreaks, Located In Texas, Have Infected Over 2,100 Inmates
US - Covid-19 erupted in Detroit jails. It killed two doctors caring for inmates
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jul/22/covid-19-detroit-jails-deaths
Asia
India - Prisoners to interact with family online
India - MP: No new entrants in jails without clearing coronavirus test
Nepal - Lamjung jail crammed
https://english.khabarhub.com/2020/21/113860/
Philippines frees nearly 22,000 inmates to prevent COVID-19 infections in crowded jails
http://www.china.org.cn/world/Off_the_Wire/2020-07/22/content_76299735.htm
Europe
Ireland - High praise for prison staff and inmates for Covid-19 fight delivered at the Midlands Prison in Portlaoise
Oceania
Australia - No COVID-induced freedom for Vic prisoners
News 21 July
Africa
Zimbabwe: 66 Test Positive At Byo Prison
http://www.newsdzezimbabwe.co.uk/2020/07/66-test-positive-at-byo-prison.html
Americas
Bahamas - Prison medical ward shut down
https://ewnews.com/prison-medical-ward-shut-down
US - Why Prisoners Are More Likely to Die of COVID-19
https://www.hepmag.com/article/prisoners-likley-die-covid19
US - San Quentin coronavirus outbreak apparently result of missed steps by prison overseer
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/San-Quentin-coronavirus-outbreak-apparently-15421664.php
US - Indiana Women’s Prison Called “Ticking Time Bomb” As COVID Lockdown Continues
US - Private Prison Firm GEO Group Faces Investor Lawsuit Over 'Blundering' Coronavirus Response
US - Hundreds denied parole as Alabama’s COVID-19 crisis worsens
https://www.alreporter.com/2020/07/20/hundreds-denied-parole-as-alabamas-covid-19-crisis-worsens/
US - Oregon's Prisons Struggle With COVID-19 And Its Impact On People Behind Bars
https://www.opb.org/news/article/oregon-coronavirus-covid-19-prisons-health/
US (Texas) - 500 women at Fort Worth federal prison test positive for coronavirus, second most in U.S.
Asia
Shortage of medical staff puts Indian prisoners at high risk of covid-19
India - Covid-19 in conflict zones: Nearly half the inmates of two prisons in Kashmir and Assam infected
India - Covid-19: Over 11,500 prisoners released in Punjab
Philippines - Senate to investigate deaths at national jail
https://www.bworldonline.com/senate-to-investigate-deaths-at-national-jail/
At least 21 inmates died from COVID-19 in Philippines
Europe
England and Wales - ‘It’s just too long’: children in detention may face Covid-19 restrictions until 2022
Ireland - Families urged not to smuggle drugs into prison as visits resume
Oceania
Australia - Coronavirus case in prison officer plunges six Victorian correctional facilities into lockdown
News 18-20 July
Africa
DRC - Ituri : une centaine de détenus de la prison centrale de Bunia libérés par grâce présidentielle
Egypt: Apparent Covid-19 Outbreaks in Prisons
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/07/20/egypt-apparent-covid-19-outbreaks-prisons#
Kenya: Meru Records 4 Coronavirus Cases at Kangeta and GK Prisons
https://allafrica.com/stories/202007200110.html
Kenya - 3 prisons staff test positive for Covid-19
https://nairobinews.nation.co.ke/editors-picks/3-prisons-staff-test-positive-for-covid-19
Covid-19: South Africa releases 7,000 inmates to decongest prisons
Zimbabwe - Covid-19 Hits Chikurubi Prison
http://www.newsdzezimbabwe.co.uk/2020/07/covid-19-hits-chikurubi-prison.html
Zimbabwe - Bulawayo prisons contain COVID-19 outbreak
https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-189090.html
Americas
Canada - Alberta jails breaching pandemic protocols, lawyers warn province
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/alberta-jails-covid-19-protocols-safety-1.5652897
US - The coronavirus brought federal prison transfers to a halt. Now people are stuck in limbo.
https://theintercept.com/2020/07/19/coronavirus-prison-transfers-bop/
US - 1,000 federal inmates at Texas prison test positive for COVID-19
US - About half of California prison inmates killed by COVID-19 were disabled, advocates say
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article244257392.html
US - The Pandemic Hits New York’s “Prison Nursing Home”
https://gothamist.com/news/covid-19-pandemic-hits-new-yorks-prison-nursing-home
US - COVID-19 Cases Top 1,000 Among Florida Corrections Workers
https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/covid-19-cases-top-1000-among-florida-corrections-workers
US - Indiana Left It To County Courts To Release Prisoners During The COVID Crisis. Most Of Them Haven’t.
Asia
India - Overcrowded prisons in Kashmir are 'incubators' for Covid-19 as inmates are refused release
India - Random testing of inmates hit by stretched health machinery: Maharashtra Prison dept
India - Three pronged strategy to effectively combat covid situation in Punjab prisons
Nepal - Two test positive for COVID-19 in Nepalgunj jail
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/two-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-nepalgunj-jail/
Philippines - BuCor says 19 Bilibid inmates have died of COVID-19
Philippines - Sotto wants to probe deaths of Bilibid inmates
https://mb.com.ph/2020/07/20/sotto-wants-to-probe-deaths-of-bilibid-inmates/
Europe
England and Wales - Inspectors call for easing of ‘severe regime restrictions’ in women’s prisons as inmates’ physical and mental health deteriorating
England and Wales - More than 140 offenders released from prison housed in hotels during lockdown
Tiny fraction of prison staff in Ireland caught Covid-19 but prisoners escaped infection
Northern Ireland - Drug seizures inside NI prison fall to record low during pandemic
Northern Ireland - Virtual visits to prisoners in NI set to continue after pandemic
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40018550.html
Oceania
Australia - Concerns about positive COVID-19 cases in Victorian prison system
News 17 July
Rise in women prisoners and COVID measures, ‘making sentences worse’
https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/07/1068471
Africa
Senegal - Des ex-détenus et des familles de détenus interpellent les autorités
South Africa - COVID-19: Correctional Services eases prison overcrowding
South Africa - Midlands jails release 281 of 449 qualifying former offenders
Americas
British Virgin Islands - Appointment only! Her Majesty’s Prison resumes visitations
https://bvinews.com/appointment-only-her-majestys-prison-resumes-visitations/
Canada - COVID-19 taking a toll in prisons, with high infection rates, CBC News analysis shows
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prisons-jails-inmates-covid-19-1.5652470
Canada - Federal prisoners allowed visitors after four-month COVID-19 ban
Canada - Ontario Court of Appeal rejects application for COVID-19 bail from inmate with diabetes
US - Prison Populations Drop by 100,000 During Pandemic
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2020/07/16/prison-populations-drop-by-100-000-during-pandemic
US - Bureau Of Prisons Using Solitary Confinement As A Means To Curb Covid-19 Contagion
US - Hundreds of inmates test positive at North Florida prison
https://cbs12.com/news/coronavirus/hundreds-of-inmates-test-positive-at-north-florida-prison
US - Kansas Prisons Prepare For Possible Second Coronavirus Outbreak Behind Bars
https://www.kmuw.org/post/kansas-prisons-prepare-possible-second-coronavirus-outbreak-behind-bars
US - Ohio moves forward on plan to reopen some prisons for visitation, despite a rise in coronavirus cases statewide
US - 2 Arkansas prison inmates died at hospitals after COVID-19 related symptoms
US - Prison health needs greater priority in Indiana
http://www.therepublic.com/2020/07/17/prison_health_needs_greater_priority_in_indiana/
Asia
Cambodia - Keeping COVID-19 ‘locked out’: Overcrowding a major concern
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50745461/keeping-covid-19-locked-out-overcrowding-a-major-concern/
India - Kashmir: 96 Prisoners Test Covid Positive In Anantnag Jail
India - Petition filed in HC against panel’s decision on release of prisoners
Europe
Guernsey - My partner is in prison and the pandemic is taking its toll on his mental health
https://metro.co.uk/2020/07/17/boyfriend-jail-covid-19-taking-toll-12917232/
Oceania
Australia - Coronavirus enters Victorian prison system for first time, results in demands for some inmates' release
Fiji - Inmates reconnect with families online
https://www.fijitimes.com/inmates-reconnect-with-families-online/
News 16 July
Africa
Madagascar - Prison d’Arivonimamo : Six détenus déclarés positifs au coronavirus
Malawi prison register first Covid-19 case: Release some inmates or risk 'death sentence' for many
Over 6,000 prisoners released in S.Africa amid Covid-19 pandemic
https://telanganatoday.com/over-6k-prisoners-released-in-s-africa-amid-covid-19-pandemic
Uganda - Minor offenders to stand trial in remand homes
https://www.independent.co.ug/minor-offenders-to-stand-trial-in-remand-homes/
Americas
Canada - Expert worries stress is mounting as isolation continues in Saskatchewan jails
Canada - Edmonton Remand Centre inmate tests positive for COVID-19
Canada - Some B.C. prisoners will get art supplies to help them cope with isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic
Nearly 70,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases in US prisons
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/07/16/pris-j16.html
US - Oklahoma’s Prison Population Is Dropping Amid the Pandemic. Will the Trend Continue?
US - More than 900 COVID-19 cases at Ohio federal prison, health officials say
https://www.fox19.com/2020/07/15/more-than-covid-cases-ohio-federal-prison-health-officials-say/
US - Five months after outbreak, California to publish COVID-19 data on local jails
https://www.fresnobee.com/news/california/article244252932.html
US - New Mexico inmates riot amid demands for more virus testing
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/New-Mexico-inmates-riot-amid-demands-for-more-15410533.php
US (North Carolina) - A Year Without Visits: COVID-19’s Impact on Children with Incarcerated Parents
Asia
India - Only 14 out of 41,500 jail inmates found +ve in Bihar
India - Yerawada Central Jail inmates can now video call their relatives and lawyers
The Coronavirus at the Service of Torture and Crime in Iran’s Prisons
Pakistan - Adiala Jail allows visitors
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2255109/adiala-jail-allows-visitors
News 15 July
Africa
Zimbabwe - Gweru remand prisoners face transport challenges
https://www.chronicle.co.zw/gweru-remand-prisoners-face-transport-challenges/
Americas
Guyana - Around 350 prisoners released to ease overcrowding in response to COVID-19
US - Unlocking the Potential of Prison Education
US (California) - 18th man at Chino men’s prison dies of coronavirus
https://www.dailybulletin.com/2020/07/14/18th-man-at-chino-mens-prison-dies-of-coronavirus/
US - Thousands of Texas prisoners still have the coronavirus. More than 25% of inmates at four units are infected.
https://www.texastribune.org/2020/07/14/texas-prisons-coronavirus-infections/
US - Florida prisons grapple with COVID-19 hitting workers
https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/florida-prisons-grapple-with-covid-19-hitting-workers
US - As COVID-19 Permeates Prisons And Jails, Baltimore Defendants Continue To Be Held Without Bail
https://theappeal.org/baltimore-defendants-held-without-bail/
Asia
Afghanistan - She Went to Prison for Killing Her Husband. The Pandemic Set Her Free.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/14/magazine/afghan-women-prison-coronavirus.html
India - COVID-19 enters Anantnag prison; 47 prisoners test positive
http://kashmirwatch.com/covid-19-enters-anantnag-prison-47-prisoners-test-positive/
India - Covid-19: Video calling facility between lawyers and inmates in Maharashtra jails
India - AP: Special jails soon for Covid-19 positive inmates
Fak Kurbah initiative secures release of nearly 800 from Oman prisons
Philippines - SC tosses plea of 22 high-risk detainees to lower courts
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1306781/sc-tosses-plea-of-high-risk-detainees-to-lower-courts
Europe
Ireland - Visitors to Portlaoise and other prisons warned they face ejection over new Covid-19 visiting rules
News 14 July
Africa
South Africa - St Albans inmates on prolonged hunger strike over alleged beatings and growing Covid-19 concerns
Americas
US - Leaving Prison In The COVID-19 Economy
https://www.npr.org/2020/07/13/890454408/leaving-prison-in-the-covid-19-economy
US - A third of Sussex prison inmates have coronavirus; worst outbreak in Delaware
US - Inmates claim conditions at Wash. state prison are 'disgusting'
US (Connecticut) - Protesters demand ‘decarceration’ of state prisons
US - Texas geriatric inmates being deprived of protection from COVID, lawyers argue in hearing
US - Missouri prisoners raise concerns about guards without masks
https://krcgtv.com/news/local/missouri-prisoners-raise-concerns-about-guards-without-masks
US - Nevada federal prisoner alleges pandemic mishandled behind bars
Asia
India - HC extends interim orders till Aug 31
https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/hc-extends-interim-orders-till-aug-31/1894170
Judiciary Announces New Prison Furlough Plan in Iran amid COVID-19 Outbreak
Israel - Health Ministry raises flag over suspected virus spread in prisons
https://www.timesofisrael.com/health-ministry-raises-flag-over-suspected-virus-spread-in-prisons/
Sri Lanka - Producing prison inmates at courts temporarily suspended
11 prisoners die from pneumonia in Tajikistan
https://akipress.com/news:645393:11_prisoners_die_from_pneumonia_in_Tajikistan/
Europe
England and Wales - 16 years old and stuck in solitary confinement 23 hours a day because of coronavirus
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/07/14/europe/coronavirus-prisons-race-gbr-intl/index.html
News 11-13 July
Africa
Cameroon - Lutte contre le coronavirus : Laurent Esso suspend les corvées faites par les détenus à l’extérieur de la prison
South Africa - Riots erupt in prisons as Covid-19 infections rise
South Africa - Outcry over number of prisoners released since parole announcement
South Africa - EC prisons have highest number of Covid19 cases
https://www.algoafm.co.za/local/ec-prisons-have-highest-number-of-covid19-cases
Americas
Barbados - Ban on prison visits remains for now
https://barbadostoday.bb/2020/07/11/ban-on-prison-visits-remains-for-now/
US - Researchers, Physicians Caution Against Use of Solitary Confinement to Prevent COVID-19 Spread in Prisons
US - California to release up to 8,000 prisoners to curb spread of coronavirus
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jul/10/california-coronavirus-prisons-release
US (California) - Two more San Quentin prisoners die from COVID-19
U.S. Prison Employee Preparing for Executions Tests Positive for Coronavirus
https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2020/07/12/us/12reuters-health-coronavirus-usa-executions.html
US (North Carolina) - Judge: NC prisons out of compliance with court orders
https://www.wbtv.com/2020/07/10/judge-nc-prisons-out-compliance-with-court-orders/
US (Indiana) - Lawmakers Say Coronavirus Measures At Women's Prison Put Inmates At Risk
US - Rights group sues New Mexico Corrections Department, private prison operators
US - North Texas Federal Prison Has Largest Number of COVID-19 Cases Among Inmates in the Nation
US - With 28 Florida inmates dead, reform group wants at-risk inmates released
Asia
India - 30 more undertrials test positive at central prison
India - 10K prisoners released as Covid tally in Maharashtra jails reaches 599
India - 30 inmates, 9 cops test Covid-positive as Bengaluru jail reports second outbreak in 11 days
Rights commission warns COVID-19 spreading in Iraqi prisons
https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/news/8025688d-f5c2-4a50-b702-e6e46cbd9eaa
La COVID-19 et les prisons en Israël
https://fr.timesofisrael.com/la-covid-19-et-les-prisons-en-israel/
Sri Lanka - Transfer of prison inmates suspended
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20B/Jul12_1594577458CH.php
Europe
England and Wales - Prison population starts rising again
https://insidetime.org/prison-population-starts-rising-again/
England and Wales - 'Winchester Prison inmates frustrated by Covid measures'
https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/18574336.winchester-prison-inmates-frustrated-covid-measures/
News 10 July
Africa
Democratic Republic of the Congo - Covid-19 au Nord-Kivu : 8 cas testés positifs à la prison centrale de Goma
Zimbabwe - Covid-19 hits Bulawayo Prison – Four inmates, officer found with virus
https://www.chronicle.co.zw/covid-19-hits-bulawayo-prison-four-inmates-officer-found-with-virus/
Americas
US - Pandemic forces executions and death penalty sentences to historic lows
US - Stanford research team studies spread of COVID-19 in prisons
US - 'Make things right': criminal justice officials urge California to release prisoners amid Covid-19 surge
US - California's San Quentin prison using tents, warehouse to treat inmates infected with COVID-19
US (Delaware) - Coronavirus outbreak at Sussex prison on track to be state's largest
US - Former D.C. inmates use virtual meetings for support, encouragement as they adjust to life outside prison
Asia
India - COVID-19 cases rise in Maharashtra's prisons
https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/1124625-covid-19-cases-rise-in-maharashtras-prisons
India - HC suggests jail authorities consider video conferencing facility for prisoners, families
Pakistan - 1,363 inmates infected with Covid-19 in Sindh prisons
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2254099/1363-inmates-infected-with-covid-19-in-sindh-prisons
Philippines - BuCor releases 79 amid efforts vs COVID-19
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1304709/bucor-releases-79-amid-efforts-vs-covid-19
Thailand - Model prisoners may be tagged, released from crowded jails
Europe
Eradicating prison overcrowding: CPT urges intensifying temporary measures introduced to prevent COVID-19
Ireland - Gardaí and Prison Service expect coronavirus pandemic costs of at least €22.5 million
Ireland - IPRT calls for 'more eyes on prisons' as 24 serious complaints lodged in the first half of 2019
News 9 July
Africa
Coronavirus stalks cells of Cameroon's crowded prisons
South Africa - Riots erupt in prisons as inmates say they fear getting Covid-19
South Africa - Prisoners being ‘denied access’ to court
https://www.iol.co.za/mercury/news/prisoners-being-denied-access-to-court-50598142
Tunisia - Un cas de contamination au coronavirus enregistré à la prison de Gabès
Americas
Canada - Personal visits resume at Hamilton's Barton Jail as COVID-19 restrictions loosen
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/hamilton-wentworth-detention-centre-1.5642260
Coronavirus deaths and infection rates higher in US prisons than general population, analysis finds
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/07/08/health/coronavirus-prisons-death-rates/index.html
US - Releasing People From Prison Is Easier Said Than Done
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/07/releasing-people-prison/613741/
US (New York State) - Instead of Freeing Elderly Prisoners in Response to Coronavirus, Cuomo Created a Prison Nursing Home Way Upstate
https://theintercept.com/2020/07/08/elderly-prisoners-new-york-cuomo/
US (Ohio) - Inside The Prison Where 8 In 10 Of The Incarcerated Have Gotten Coronavirus
US - Wyoming to Test All Inmates, Staff at Prisons for COVID-19
https://k2radio.com/wyoming-to-test-all-inmates-staff-at-prisons-for-covid-19/
US - 'Outbreak at Central Mississippi Correctional drives COVID-19 growth in Mississippi prisons
Asia
India - 1,730 prisoners to be tested for Covid: Collector
Iran - How the Coronavirus Has Affected the Women’s Ward at Evin Prison
Sri Lanka - New COVID 19 Cluster may be emerging at the Kandakadu Rehabilitation Centre in Polonnaruwa
Europe
COVID-19: CPT issues follow-up statement
https://www.coe.int/en/web/cpt/-/covid-19-cpt-issues-follow-up-statement
Oceania
New Zealand - Amnesty concerned at prisoners missing minimum daily time outside cell during lockdown
News 8 July
Africa
Morocco - Local Prison in Tangier Records 20 COVID-19 Cases Among Inmates
Nigeria - FG frees 3,789 prison inmates to curb COVID-19 spread
https://thenationonlineng.net/fg-frees-3789-prison-inmates-to-curb-covid-19-spread/
COVID-19 : Le ministre de la Justice réceptionne du matériel de protection destiné aux prisons du Togo
Americas
COVID-19 in Brazilian prisons: Pandemic or a necropolitical project?
Canada - Coalition pushes Ontario for information on coronavirus in jails
https://lfpress.com/news/local-news/coalition-pushes-ontario-for-information-on-coronavirus-in-jails
US - Prison Healthcare So Bad It’s A Death Sentence
https://www.iwf.org/2020/07/07/prison-healthcare-so-bad-its-a-death-sentence/
US - California’s Firefighter Prison Camps go on Lockdown as Coronavirus Rages
https://earther.gizmodo.com/california-s-firefighter-prison-camps-go-on-lockdown-as-1844282834
US - Just before a massive outbreak, a California prison declined free coronavirus tests and urgent advice
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-02042-9
US - Some Ohio prisons will allow visitors for the first time in months
US - Group advocates for release of elderly NY prisoners
https://www.wcax.com/content/news/Group-advocates-for-release-of-elderly-NY-prisoners-571654051.html
Asia
Israel - Six wardens at Jerusalem prison contract virus, 60 prisoners evacuated
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/S1JGcJGJv
Europe
England and Wales - Locked-up and locked-down: how prison education has fared during Covid-19
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Violence fears over longer lockdowns in prisons
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53323771
News 7 July
Americas
US - Officials: Testing, fewer inmates help limit COVID-19 at lnd. jails
US (Louisiana) - Baton Rouge jail inmates' request for release amid coronavirus has been denied by federal judge
US (California) - Pressure rises for Newsom to release more people from San Quentin, other prisons
US - Florida prisons see hundreds of additional coronavirus cases
Asia
Covid-19 in prison: Is India doing enough?
India - Inform prisoner’s family, lawyers within 24 hours of +ve test
India - Jail staffers go on ‘mass leave’ after Covid blast
India - Covid-19: Daily check must for elderly inmates in Delhi's Tihar jail
Sri Lanka scrambles counter Coronavirus measures after prison inmate tests positive
Europe
England and Wales - Are “squalid” prison conditions and the response to the Covid-19 pandemic breaching human rights?
Northern Ireland - Prison visiting restrictions to be lifted
https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-news/prison-visiting-restrictions-lifted-18549595
News 4-6 July
Africa
South Africa - Inmates accuse officials of bringing Covid-19 to prison and infecting them
South Africa - Deaths of three prison warders spark health fears
Americas
New Outbreaks Push U.S. Inmate Coronavirus Cases Past 50,000
https://gooddaysacramento.cbslocal.com/2020/07/03/outbreak-coronavirus-cases-prison/
US prisons in a hole as pandemic slows inmate flow
https://www.ft.com/content/7a5dfcfe-bddf-48ed-8f93-bb9d6925aa2e
US - 63 Louisiana state prison inmates to be released through furlough programme
US - Tennessee prisons were 'ticking time bomb' ahead of COVID-19
US - Thousands Of Inmates Quarantined In Eastern Oregon Prison In COVID-19 Outbreak
https://www.opb.org/news/article/eastern-oregon-prison-inmates-quarantined-covid-19/
US - Fifth San Quentin Death Row Inmate Dies During Prison COVID-19 Outbreak
US - 'Historic health screw-up': what you need to know about the Covid-19 crisis in California prisons
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jul/03/california-prisons-coronavirus-covid-19-health
Asia
India - No Covid distancing in crammed prison worries inmates, kin
India - COVID-19 count in Delhi prisons stands at 141
India - COVID-19: 11,000 Maha jail inmates released temporarily so far
31 inmates contract COVID-19 at Iraqi prison
Pakistan - 1,196 prisoners infected with coronavirus in Sindh jails
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/682390-1-196-prisoners-infected-with-coronavirus-in-sindh-jails
Europe
England and Wales - First online service broadcast for prisoners and families
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-53266892
England and Wales - Inmates at HMP Maidstone not received any contact since lockdown
https://www.thejusticegap.com/inmates-at-hmp-maidstone-not-received-any-contact-since-lockdown/
England and Wales - Open prisons suffer from suspension of ROTL
https://insidetime.org/open-prisons-suffer-from-suspension-of-rotl/
Turkey - Disabled prisoners ‘left to die’ in Istanbul jail, says lawyer
https://ahvalnews.com/turkey-prisons/disabled-prisoners-left-die-istanbul-jail-says-lawyer
Oceania
New Zealand - Parole Hearings Return To Prisons
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2007/S00075/parole-hearings-return-to-prisons.htm
News 3 July
Africa
Ghana pardons 794 prisoners to curb spread of COVID-19
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/ghana-pardons-794-prisoners-to-curb-spread-of-covid-19/1898022
Ghana - Review Amnesty criteria to decongest prisons - POS foundation to President
South Africa - Less than quarter of the 19 000 inmates eligible for Covid-19 parole released so far
Americas
Canada - Ottawa jail inmates argue anti-COVID measures a breach of charter rights
Canada - COVID-19 and the difficulties for Ontario inmates | Sarina Nezhadian
US - New York’s Pandemic Rolls On, and Prison Testing is Still an Issue
https://citylimits.org/2020/07/02/new-yorks-pandemic-rolls-on-and-prison-testing-is-still-an-issue/
US - Prison Officials In Kansas Ignored The Pandemic. Then People Started Dying.
https://theintercept.com/2020/07/02/coronavirus-kansas-prison-lansing-correctional/
US - As Massachusetts reopens, prisoners remain isolated
US (Arkansas) - State's prison system below capacity
https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/jul/03/states-prison-system-below-capacity/
US (Florida) - DeSantis cuts money for prison updates, hepatitis C treatment
Asia
India - Bombay High Court directs Maharashtra govt to conduct random COVID-19 tests in jails
Europe
End Covid-19 jail visiting ban for children in England and Wales, MPs urge
England and Wales - Prisons inspectors concerned at prolonged pandemic restrictions on inmates at HMP Onley
News 2 July
Africa
South Africa - Pietermaritzburg prisoners fear Covid-19
https://www.newframe.com/pietermaritzburg-prisoners-fear-covid-19/
Uganda - Prisons secures equipment worth UGX 1.2 Bn to boost COVID-19 response
https://www.independent.co.ug/prisons-secures-equipment-worth-ugx-1-2-bn-to-boost-covid-19-response/
Americas
Coronavirus: Mexican inmates die after drinking anti-bacterial gel
US - Coronavirus infections in prisons to surpass 50,000 within days
US - As an inmate, I had to educate an entire prison about coronavirus
https://www.mic.com/p/as-inmate-i-had-to-educate-entire-prison-about-coronavirus-22874734
US (California) - San Quentin Prisoners Go On Hunger Strike Amid Massive COVID-19 Outbreak
https://theappeal.org/san-quentin-hunger-strike-coronavirus-outbreak-california-prison/
US - About 220 Officers and Inmates at a Washington State Prison Have Tested Positive for COVID-19
Asia
India - Agra Prison Installs 'Panic Button' For Timely Medical Assistance For Detainees
India - Covid-19 outbreak in Karnataka's central jail
India - Provide basic necessities to convicts’ families: Gujarat high court
Nepal - Suicide by youth in police custody raises concern over mental health of inmates
Philippines - Over 15,000 prisoners freed to decongest BJMP jails amid pandemic—DILG
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1300566/over-15k-detainees-released-to-decongest-bjmp-jails-dilg
News 27 June – 1 July
Africa
Cote d'Ivoire - Covid-19 : 60 prisonniers atteints du Coronavirus/ La MACA au bord d’une catastrophe sanitaire
Nigeria - COVID-19: 74 in prison despite qualifying for amnesty – Falana
https://punchng.com/covid-19-74-in-prison-despite-qualifying-for-amnesty-falana/
Senegal - Covid-19 à la prison de Diourbel : Le major de l’infirmerie et 8 détenus testés positifs
South Africa - Correctional Services unions, organisations worried over prison Covid-19 infections
South Africa - Thousands of prisoners released on parole but only 329 in EC
https://www.algoafm.co.za/domestic/thousands-of-prisoners-released-on-parole-but-only-329-in-ec
South Africa - Prisoners tested positive for Covid-19 say they are not getting proper medication
Police storm prison in eastern Sudan after Covid-19 protest
Americas
COMMENTARY || Canadian prisons in the time of COVID-19: Recommendations for the pandemic and beyond
Canada - Alberta prisoner populations down 35 per cent since start of COVID-19 pandemic
US - How COVID-19 in Jails and Prisons Threatens Nearby Communities
US - 'Nowhere to go': U.S. pandemic prison releases prompt housing concerns
US - San Quentin: Covid-19 cases at California prison surge to 1,000
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jun/29/san-quentin-coronavirus-cases-covid-19
US - Nebraska to declare state of emergency for prison overcrowding
https://fox42kptm.com/newsletter-daily/prison-overcrowding-06-30-2020
US - Panel meant to reduce Louisiana prison population during pandemic has negligible impact — 0.2%
US - Connecticut prisons announce coronavirus test results, brace for second wave
https://www.theday.com/article/20200630/NWS12/200639964
Asia
Why India’s jails remain overcrowded during the pandemic, even as prisoners are released on parole
India - As Covid cases rise in jails, experts say health should have been primary criteria for interim bail
Locked down in lockdown: Harsh restrictions keep COVID-19 out of Israel prisons
Malaysia - 18 new Covid-19 infections including prison case
https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/532153
Pakistan - Jail authorities lift ban on family visits
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252447/jail-authorities-lift-ban-on-family-visits
Philippines - President grants parole to sick, elderly prisoners
https://manilastandard.net/mobile/article/327442
Europe
We need far more coronavirus tests in British prisons
England and Wales - Government to bring prisons out of lockdown with ‘Nightingale cells’ and 30,000 coronavirus tests
https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/prisons-lockdown-lifting-nightingale-cells-458192
England and Wales - Just 175 out of 4,000 prisoners released early to stop spread of coronavirus
England and Wales - 23-hour Wandsworth prison lockdown damages mental health, say families
https://www.swlondoner.co.uk/23-hour-wandsworth-prison-lockdown-damages-mental-health-say-families/
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Jail criticised for 'indefensible' restrictions
Northern Ireland - Coronavirus: Zoom calls reunite prisoners with families
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-53179481
Scotland - Hundreds of Scotland's prisoners - including 21 convicted of serious assault - released early to stop spread of Covid-19
Turkey - CİSST: Along with Covid-19, other outbreaks have also started in prisons
Oceania
Australia (Queensland) - Personal visits to prisons begin from 10 July
https://www.miragenews.com/personal-visits-to-prisons-begin-from-10-july/
Australia (Queensland) - Twenty assaults in 10 days: Prison officers bear brunt of COVID-19 tensions
News 26 June
Outbreak or breakout? How to protect prison populations from COVID-19
Africa
Nigeria: The Increasing Prevalence Of Infectious Diseases And The Call For Use Of Non-Custodial Sentencing
South Africa is rethinking jail time as a punishment for low-risk crimes
South Africa - Cases getting postponed as prison warders fail to take suspects to court
Americas
Canada - Mass incarceration of Indigenous people betrays Ottawa’s reconciliation efforts
Haïti - Justice : Critères de libération pour désengorger les prisons en Haïti
US - The Coronavirus Crisis Inside Prisons Won’t Stay Behind Bars
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/25/opinion/coronavirus-prisons-compassionate-release.html
US - States engaged in 'gross negligence' in Covid-19 response in jails and prisons, new report finds
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/06/25/health/state-response-covid-jails-prisons-trnd/index.html
US - Covid-19 outbreaks at jails and prisons should make us rethink incarceration
US - Black inmates in Kansas prisons suffer disproportionately from COVID-19, data shows
https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/kansas/article243771287.html
US (Illinois) - State COVID-19 Orders Keep Mentally Ill Inmates In Jail
https://www.wglt.org/post/state-covid-19-orders-keep-mentally-ill-inmates-jail#stream/0
US - Oregon governor to commute 57 prison sentences due to COVID-19
https://nbc16.com/news/local/oregon-governor-to-commute-57-prison-sentences-due-to-covid-19
Asia
India - Prison un-break: Video-calling can become lifeline for jailbirds deprived of family visits
https://www.theweek.in/theweek/specials/2020/06/25/prison-un-break.html
Israel - Dozens enter quarantine after prison guard tests positive for coronavirus
Yémen : de nouvelles mesures nécessaires pour lutter contre la propagation du COVID-19 dans les prisons (ONU)
http://french.china.org.cn/foreign/txt/2020-06/26/content_76205424.htm
Oceania
New Zealand - Rimutaka Prison: Inmates still can't hug family and children in 'mind-boggling' rule
News 25 June
Africa
DGAPR: Morocco to Allow Family Prison Visits Starting July 13
Sierra Leone - Water Shortage, Coronavirus Hit Pademba Road Prisons
https://sierraexpressmedia.com/?p=93359
South Africa - Awaiting-trial prisoners hogging jail space: Lamola
https://www.timeslive.co.za/politics/2020-06-25-awaiting-trial-prisoners-hogging-jail-space-lamola/
South Africa - Correctional Services revises COVID-19 safety measures
https://www.ecr.co.za/news/news/correctional-services-revises-covid-19-safety-measures/
Americas
Canada - Inuit over-represented in federal prisons’ COVID-19 cases
https://nunatsiaq.com/stories/article/inuit-over-represented-in-federal-prisons-covid-19-cases/
How U.S. Prisons Became Ground Zero for Covid-19
Thousands of US inmates got virus relief checks; the IRS wants them back
US - 'I don’t deserve to die in here': women in an Ohio prison fear Covid-19 will kill them
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/commentisfree/2020/jun/24/coronavirus-covid-prison-release
Inside the U.S.’s Largest Maximum-Security Prison, COVID-19 Raged. Outside, Officials Called Their Fight a Success.
https://www.propublica.org/article/inside-the-uss-largest-maximum-security-prison-covid-19-raged
US (California) - Courts Try To Fast Track Release Of 1000s Of Low-Risk Prison Inmates Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
US (Massachusetts) - With prison populations halved, it’s time for a reinvestment strategy
https://massinc.org/2020/06/24/with-prison-populations-halved-its-time-for-a-reinvestment-strategy/
US - Some New Mexico prisoners sentences cut short due to COVID-19
US - Nevada prisons have one of the lowest coronavirus positivity rates in nation
https://mynews4.com/news/local/nevada-prisons-have-one-of-lowest-covid-19-positivity-rates-in-nation
Asia
Cambodia - Covid-19 postpones expansion of prisons
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/covid-19-postpones-expansion-prisons
India - Maharashtra: Month on, only 10,000 inmates released on temporary bail, emergency parole; prisons still overcrowded
Philippines - Human rights group asks SC to act on petition for prisoners’ release
Oceania
Australia - Drug use at WA prisons declines after suspension of social visits during COVID-19 pandemic
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-06-25/illicit-drug-use-in-wa-prisons-drops-during-covid/12393100
News 24 June
Africa
Namibia - Covid-19: Prisons try to keep virus out
https://www.namibian.com.na/92154/read/Covid-19-Prisons-try-to-keep-virus-out
Nigeria - COVID-19: Again Delta Grants Amnesty to 125 Prison Inmates
https://prnigeria.com/2020/06/23/covid-19-delta-amnesty-prison/
Americas
Brazil - Denúncia na ONU: Pandemia aprofunda política genocida do governo em prisões
Canadian prisons in the time of COVID-19: Recommendations for the pandemic and beyond
Haiti's president pardons more than 400 prisoners
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Haitis_president_pardons_more_than_400_prisoners
US - New Senate Legislation Expands Early Prison Release
https://hamodia.com/2020/06/23/new-senate-legislation-expands-early-prison-release/
US - Pretrial Detention in a Pandemic
https://www.pogo.org/analysis/2020/06/pretrial-detention-in-a-pandemic/
US - Despite Harsh Lockdowns, Nearly Half of Women in Massachusetts Prisons Caught the Coronavirus
US - Stanford works with California prisons to test and prevent COVID-19
Asia
India - Kin to be Informed Within 48 Hours if Prisoner Tests Positive For Coronavirus
https://in.news.yahoo.com/kin-informed-within-48-hours-125300007.html
India - Jails testing video call facility for inmates
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/jails-testing-video-call-facility-for-inmates/
Iran Prison Staff Refuse to Work as COVID19 Cases Rise
https://iran-hrm.com/index.php/2020/06/23/iran-prison-staff-refuse-to-work-covid19-infections-rise/
Iran: Second Coronavirus Wave in Isfahan Prison, Golestan Province
Pakistan - All prisoners being screened for coronavirus, court told
https://www.dawn.com/news/1564756
Philippines - How COVID-19 cases exploded in prisons: A timeline
https://news.abs-cbn.com/spotlight/06/24/20/how-covid-19-cases-exploded-in-prisons-a-timeline
Europe
First Covid-19 infection confirmed in Greek prison
Ireland - Family prison visits to resume after three months for 15 minutes slots
News 23 June
Africa
Ghana: Curbing COVID-19 in Prisons - Grant Amnesty to Inmates Convicted of Minor Crimes
https://allafrica.com/stories/202006220613.html
Kenya - Footbaths in Kisumu prison in anti-virus war
https://www.the-star.co.ke/counties/nyanza/2020-06-22-footbaths-in-kisumu-prison-in-anti-virus-war/
Americas
Canada - Inmates at Barton jail hold weekend hunger strike over declining quality of food
US (North Carolina) - Judge denies state request to withhold some information about COVID-19 prison precautions
US (Pennsylvania) - PA prison populations reduced by record-setting 3,471 since mid-March, Gov. Wolf says
US (Pennsylvania) - Hunger strikers want PA prisoners released
https://philly.metro.us/hunger-strikers-want-pa-prisoners-released/
US - Illinois Released White Inmates at Higher Rates in Coronavirus Pandemic
Asia
India - Days after first COVID casualty, 17 inmates test positive at Delhi''s Mandoli Jail
India - Maharashtra prison inmates can now email to communicate with lawyers: State to HC
Philippines - 'Too many are sick and dying': Supreme Court defers deciding on prisoner release
https://www.rappler.com/nation/264588-supreme-court-defers-deciding-prisoner-release
Philippines - The Old and New Bilibid Prisons in the Time of Pandemics
https://pcij.org/article/4195/the-old-and-new-bilibid-prisons-in-the-time-of-pandemics
Covid-19 continues to spread in UAE prisons
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200622-covid-19-continues-to-spread-in-uae-prisons/
News 18 – 22 June
Africa
‘It would spread quickly in those cells’: Covid-19 imperils packed Egypt prison
Uganda - Court orders Prisons to compensate Covid-19 suspects
Americas
Canada - Pandemic-related early release halted for B.C. prisoners
US - “I Begged Them To Let Me Die”: How Federal Prisons Became Coronavirus Death Traps.
US - College Programs in Prisons Go Remote
https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2020/06/18/college-programs-prisons-adapt-covid
US - ‘Last Week Tonight With John Oliver’ Addresses Alarming Coronavirus Spikes In Prisons And Jails, Urges Depopulating Facilities To Avoid Spread Of COVID-19
US - ‘We don’t have a health system:’ Expert on prisons, race, and COVID-19
US - San Quentin: outcry after Covid-19 cases at California prison triple in two weeks
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jun/18/san-quentin-covid-19-cases-california-prison
US - COVID-19 death toll rises at Indiana prisons
US (Alabama) - Overcrowded prison accounts for nearly quarter of all prison COVID-19 cases
US - Judge demands plan for inmate reductions at D.C. jail, finds ‘deliberate indifference’ to prisoners’ health in pandemic
Asia
India - Covid-19 spread in jails lays bare systemic flaws
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/comment/covid-19-spread-in-jails-lays-bare-systemic-flaws-102458
India - Delhi prison reports first COVID-19 death
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/delhi/delhi-prison-reports-first-covid-19-death-102273
India - High-risk inmates to be quarantined in 'temporary prisons'; inmates over 60 years to be kept separate inside jail: New draft guidelines in Maharashtra
India - Separated by Covid, Delhi prisoners and families demand e-meetings
India - COVID-19: HC extends by 45 days interim bail of 2,961 under-trial prisoners
Maldives - Jail officers, inmates being tested for COVID-19
Pakistan - Virus strikes Karachi Central Jail leaving a quarter of inmates infected
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1692966/world
Europe
England and Wales - Sick prisoners forced to wait in hospital cupboards before getting treatment, report finds
England and Wales - Coronavirus lockdown: Thousands of children unable to see relatives in prison due to ban on jail visits
England and Wales - Prisoners won’t be consulted on lifting lockdown
https://insidetime.org/prisoners-wont-be-consulted-on-lifting-lockdown/
England and Wales - New lockers at Staffordshire prison allow inmates access to medicine without seeing a doctor
England and Wales - Claims HMP Durham prisoners 'ripping up' bed sheets to make face masks over Covid-19 fears
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/claims-prisoners-ripping-up-bed-18446056
England and Wales - Prison took effective action against pandemic - but prisoners were left frustrated with extreme restrictions
Coronavirus in Ireland: Nearly 500 prisoners released under Covid-19 precautions
Scotland - Early release scheme ‘helps reduce prison population’
https://news.stv.tv/politics/early-release-scheme-helps-reduce-prison-population?top
Slovenia among countries with highest Covid-19 prison release rates
https://english.sta.si/2776558/slovenia-among-countries-with-highest-covid-19-prison-release-rates
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - Shrinking prison population prompts call to rethink bail laws
New Zealand - Coronavirus: Corrections' fight against Covid-19 at expense of some prisoners' rights - Ombudsman
News 17 June
Africa
Fourth wing of Egypt’s Scorpion Prison to become quarantine centre for infected prisoners
Ghana - Group advocates amnesty for convicted non-violent drug users
Ghana - Kumasi Central Prison Records Its First Covid19 Case By Inmate
https://www.ghgossip.com/kumasi-central-prison-records-its-first-covid19-case-by-inmate/
Kenya - Panic as 2 inmates contract Covid-19
https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2001375450/panic-as-2-inmates-contract-covid-19
Sierra Leone - Acute water shortage at Pademba Road prisons as number of covid-19 cases rises
Americas
US - 'This Is Mass Murder': Covid-19 Deaths in US Prisons Have Risen by 73% the Past Month
US (California) - Death toll from coronavirus at Chino prison rises to 15 after two more inmates die
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-06-16/coronavirus-deaths-chino-prison-inmates-die
Some inmates at California state prisons eligible for early release to stem coronavirus spread
US - Coronavirus cases set off rowdy demonstration at Washington prison
https://gruntstuff.com/coronavirus-cases-set-off-rowdy-demonstration-at-washington-prison/56693/
US (Vermont) - Black inmates make up a disproportionate share of Covid-19 cases in prison
US - Incarcerated, Infected, and Ignored: Inside an Arkansas Prison Outbreak
https://www.thenation.com/article/society/cummins-prison-arkansas-coronavirus/
US - Pregnant NC prisoners hopes of release fading
https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2020/06/17/pregnant-nc-prisoners-hopes-of-release-fading/
Asia
India - SC says COVID-19 situation worse with each passing day
India - Covid hits 10 prisons in Maharashtra, nearly 300 inmates infected
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/maharashtra-covid-prisons-6462126/
India - Thane central prison grossly overcrowded: ADGP tells HC
Europe
Belgium - Les détenus en "congé Covid" rentrent en prison ce mercredi
England and Wales - Trans and in prison during a pandemic: A rare glimpse behind bars
https://www.metro.news/trans-and-in-prison-during-a-pandemic-a-rare-glimpse-behind-bars/2046001/
Scotland - Prison service to roll out virtual visits at north-east jail
Coronavirus Scotland: Female prisoners at Cornton Vale given mobile phones to stay in touch with families
Oceania
New Zealand - NZ's high number of remand prisoners 'unacceptable' - Chief Justice
News 16 June
Africa
Egypt: Third detainee dies of suspected coronavirus
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200615-egypt-third-detainee-dies-of-suspected-coronavirus/
Ghana - Overcrowding in Akuse Prisons hindering social distancing protocol - Authorities
Americas
In Brazil's overcrowded jails, COVID-19 breeds fear and calls for change
Canada - About 100 inmates to stage hunger strike at Lindsay jail over inhumane conditions
US - Coronavirus Cases Rise Sharply in Prisons Even as They Plateau Nationwide
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/16/us/coronavirus-inmates-prisons-jails.html
Report: Solitary Confinement in U.S. Prisons Spiked by 500 Percent When Coronavirus Hit
US - Fourth Alabama inmate dies with COVID-19, 13 others from same prison test positive
US (Georgia) - Coastal State Prison reports highest number of inmate deaths related to COVID-19
US - Oregon governor to release some inmates to slow virus spread
https://www.yaktrinews.com/oregon-governor-to-release-some-inmates-to-slow-virus-spread/
Asia
India - 269 inmates, 73 jail staffers across state prisons Covid positive: Report
India - HC Seeks Delhi Govt Reply On Plea Challenging Suspension Of Inmates’ Legal Consultation
Philippines - SC starts deliberation of petition to free sick and elderly inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Over 1,000 prison leavers left homeless amid pandemic, MoJ figures show
England and Wales - Government ‘considering alternative uses’ for £4m tags bought for early-release scheme
Ireland - 'Outstanding' response in jails to Covid-19 with visiting back on the table
Halya Coynash: COVID-19 outbreak in Russian prison holding Ukrainian prisoners of conscience
News 13 – 15 June
Africa
Ghana Prison Service commended over coronavirus measures
Kenya - Inmate in Taita Taveta prison tests positive for coronavirus
Madagascar: les autorités reconnaissent les premiers cas de Covid-19 dans les prisons
South Africa - 1 452 confirmed Covid-19 cases recorded in prisons across SA
South Africa - Dept Fast-Tracking Inmate Releases As Prison Covid-19 Cases Rise
https://ewn.co.za/2020/06/15/dept-fast-tracking-inmate-releases-as-prison-covid-19-cases-rise
South Africa - Covid-19: Over 2 000 prisoners released: 19 000 more awaiting parole
https://briefly.co.za/67715-covid-19-over-2-000-prisoners-released-19-000-awaiting-parole.html
South Africa - Inmates resort to desperate measures to force social distancing in crowded prisons
Americas
Human Rights Rapporteur: “Jails are a COVID-19 Time Bomb”
https://havanatimes.org/news/human-rights-rapporteur-jails-are-a-covid-19-time-bomb/
Barbados - Prison chief assures meals meet health standards
https://barbadostoday.bb/2020/06/12/prison-chief-assures-meals-meet-health-standards/
Peru frees 1,500 inmates out of fear of COVID-19
https://www.macaubusiness.com/peru-frees-1500-inmates-out-of-fear-of-covid-19/
There are more Covid-19 cases in some US prisons than in entire countries
https://qz.com/1868445/there-are-more-covid-19-cases-in-some-us-prisons-than-in-entire-countries/
US - Some California prison transfers halted after inmates bring coronavirus to San Quentin
US - Over 100 COVID-19 cases reported at Washington state prison
https://www.bradenton.com/news/local/health-care/article243514647.html
US - Four Florida inmates on ventilators, 12 others hospitalized due to COVID-19
US - Attorneys Seek Release Of Oregon Inmates Kept Beyond Expected Sentences
https://www.opb.org/news/article/covid-19-oregon-prison-inmates-kept-beyond-release-dates/
Asia
Bangladesh - HC refuses to intervene regarding Covid-19 situation in jails
Hong Kong inmates to get tablets in prison trial opening up new world of e-books, movies and skills
India - HC seeks details of bails, paroles from lower courts since jail decongestion order
India - Virus: Separate area, diet for elderly Aurangabad jail inmates
India - Maharashtra: Prisoners can now make videocalls
268 prisoners test positive for COVID-19 in Kuwait
https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/kuwait/268-prisoners-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-kuwait-1.72009852
Pakistan - Infected inmates’ count climbs to 894
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2242766/1-infected-inmates-count-climbs-894/
Pakistan - Court summons report on COVID-19 positive prisoners in Islamabad
Chinese inmates in Philippines fear the worst as coronavirus deaths rise
https://sg.news.yahoo.com/chinese-inmates-philippines-fear-worst-102932880.html
Europe
Colony 13: Coronavirus in an Azerbaijani prison
https://oc-media.org/features/colony-13-coronavirus-in-an-azerbaijani-prison/
England and Wales - Rise in lockdown violence at major jail as prisoners kept in cells for 23 hours a day
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/rise-lockdown-violence-major-jail-18413834
Coronavirus in Ireland – Prisons to re-introduce physical visits after reporting zero cases of Covid since crisis began
https://www.thesun.ie/news/5542614/coronavirus-in-ireland-prisons-to-re-introduce-physical-visits/
Alarm at prison sickness rate in Scotland's jails
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/alarm-prison-sickness-rate-scotlands-22183263
News 12 June
Africa
Ghana - ‘Lack of balanced diet poses threat to prisoners’ - Expert
Nigeria - Rights groups blame Bauchi police for COVID-19 spread among Inmates
https://www.icirnigeria.org/rights-groups-blame-bauchi-police-for-covid-19-spread-among-inmates/
South Africa - More than 100 more prisoners test positive for Covid-19
Americas
Sint Maarten - Criminal lawyers on strike in protest of prison disinfectant
https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/criminal-lawyers-on-strike-in-protest-of-prison-disinfectant
US - Vermont’s prisons appear to be Covid-free
https://vtdigger.org/2020/06/11/vermonts-prisons-appear-to-be-covid-free/
US (Arizona) - Virus cases in jails in Phoenix exceed state prison total
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Virus-cases-in-jails-in-Phoenix-exceed-state-15334808.php
Asia
COVID-19: India's packed prisons may be courting disaster
https://www.dw.com/en/covid-19-indias-packed-prisons-may-be-courting-disaster/av-53759766
Kyoto Prison holds Japan's 1st drill in event of virus outbreak
Philippines - SC admits delay in release of sick, elderly detainees
Oceania
Australia (Western Australia) - Prison social visits set to resume within weeks
https://www.miragenews.com/prison-social-visits-set-to-resume-within-weeks/
News 11 June
Africa
Kenya - Inmates, prison officers are safe, Government assures
https://www.kbc.co.ke/inmates-prison-officers-safe-government/
Uganda - 200 inmates, warders quarantined as prisons confirms first Covid-19 case
Americas
Canada - Manitoba Justice moves to end direct lock-up permanently
https://globalnews.ca/news/7051929/manitoba-justice-direct-lock-up/
US - Appeals Court Overturns Order To Release Vulnerable Inmates From Hard-Hit Ohio Prison
US (New Jersey) - As 47th inmate dies, Assembly hearing looks at COVID in prisons
https://nj1015.com/as-47th-inmate-dies-assembly-hearing-looks-at-covid-in-prisons/
US (Arizona) - COVID-19 spiking in county jails, prison cases also rise
US - COVID-19 cases jump inside Florida's juvenile justice system
Asia
Malaysia - Prison visits to resume June 15
https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/06/599676/prison-visits-resume-june-15
745 prisoners, 125 personnel in Philippine jails test positive for coronavirus
https://www.rappler.com/nation/263519-coronavirus-cases-jails-philippines-june-11-2020
Philippines - Stranded justice delays resolution of petition to free vulnerable prisoners
Thailand - Inmate boon as courts go high-tech
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1932700/inmate-boon-as-courts-go-high-tech
Thailand - Pattaya prison visitors face new health restrictions
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-prison-visitors-face-new-health-restrictions-303675
Europe
Scotland - Coronavirus: Virtual visits to be rolled out at north-east jail
News 10 June
How are children in detention affected by Covid-19?
https://reliefweb.int/report/world/how-are-children-detention-affected-covid-19
Americas
US - Pandemic has exacerbated longstanding problems with the prison system
https://today.law.harvard.edu/pandemic-has-exacerbated-longstanding-problems-with-the-prison-system/
US - Mass Decarceration and COVID-19
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/mass_decarceration_and_covid_19#
US - Michigan prison population sees record drop during coronavirus pandemic
Asia
Prisoners protest over Pakistan's jail COVID-19 infections
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-06/09/c_139126559.htm
HRW Says Coronavirus ‘Additional Serious Threat’ to Prisoners in UAE
https://english.almanar.com.lb/1059896
Europe
England and Wales - Prison officials fear easing restrictions could lead to second wave of Covid-19
England and Wales - Inmate at HMP Usk died of coronavirus, inquest hears
https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/18505838.inmate-hmp-usk-died-coronavirus-inquest-hears/
England and Wales - North Staffordshire youth jail stays coronavirus-free as governor opens up about what life's really like for prisoners during lockdown
CoE supporting Georgian prison system to combat Covid-19 pandemic
https://agenda.ge/en/news/2020/1804
Ireland - Prison Service submits best practice paper to WHO after no inmate tests Covid-19 positive
https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0610/1146481-covid19-coronavirus-prisons/
News 9 June
Africa
Coronavirus spreads in Egypt’s Al-Qanater Prison
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200608-coronavirus-spreads-in-egypts-al-qanater-prison/
South Africa - Prison infection rates climbing as calls for release of mothers grow
Uganda - Prisons ready to release violators of COVID-19 regulations
https://www.independent.co.ug/prisons-ready-to-release-violators-of-covid-19-regulations/
Americas
Canada - Quebec Prisons Failing to Protect Inmates
https://www.mcgilldaily.com/2020/06/quebec-prisons-failing-to-protect-inmates/
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons receive donation of 10 sanitising stations
https://www.looptt.com/content/prisons-receive-donation-10-sanitising-stations
US - Nearly 1,000 infected at Chuckawalla Valley State Prison in worst coronavirus outbreak to hit prison system
US - Three inmates dead of coronavirus at federal Mississippi prison in Yazoo City
US (Virginia) - Pace of early prison release frustrates inmates' loved ones
https://www.cbs19news.com/story/42223524/pace-of-early-prison-release-frustrates-inmates-loved-ones
US - Thousands were freed from Kentucky jails to avoid COVID-19. Few have re-offended.
https://www.kentucky.com/news/coronavirus/article243363411.html
US (Maine) - Judge defers action in lawsuit seeking safeguards for at-risk inmates during pandemic
https://www.pressherald.com/2020/06/08/federal-judge-defers-action-in-prison-lawsuit/
Europe
Armenia prison system benefits from CoE support to prevent COVID-19
England and Wales - COVID-19 cases, prison by prison
https://insidetime.org/covid-19-cases-prison-by-prison/
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Woman in Surrey jail petitions UN over 'horrific' lockdown treatment
COVID-19 has reached Ukraine's prisons
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/odr/ukrainskiye-tyurmy-i-pandemiya-koronavirusa-en/
Oceania
Australia - Long Bay Jail prison riot caused by authorities 'cutting off drug supply chains'
https://www.skynews.com.au/details/_6162641412001
News 6-8 June
Africa
Ghana - Pardon Convicted Drug Users – POS Foundation To Govt
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1007222/pardon-convicted-drug-users-pos-foundation-to.html
DGAPR: 75 Moroccan Prisons Are Coronavirus-Free
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305125/dgapr-75-moroccan-prisons-are-coronavirus-free/
South Africa - Covid-19 outbreak: ‘Put moms in prison under house arrest’
South Africa - Covid-19 cases spike in Sada prison
https://www.therep.co.za/2020/06/05/covid-19-cases-spike-in-sada-prison/
Americas
Canada - COVID-19: Prisoners, guards worry about prison violence after lockdowns lifted
Chile confirms first inmate death from COVID-19
https://santiagotimes.cl/en/2020/06/03/chile-confirms-first-inmate-death-from-covid-19/
A third of Chile’s inmates released from prison over coronavirus
Another prisoner infected with coronavirus dies in Ecuador
https://www.explica.co/another-prisoner-infected-with-coronavirus-dies-in-ecuador/
Health supplies for Haiti as prison records cases of COVID-19
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Health_supplies_for_Haiti_as_prison_records_
Coronavirus Pandemic Exacerbates Prison Crisis in Latin America
Inmates tell how the pandemic is lived in Nicaraguan prisons
https://www.explica.co/inmates-tell-how-the-pandemic-is-lived-in-nicaraguan-prisons/
St Lucia - Strict COVID-19 Protocols In Place At Bordelais Correctional Facility
https://stluciatimes.com/strict-covid-19-protocols-in-place-at-bordelais-correctional-facility/
US - Prosecutorial Discretion: The Prosecutor’s Role in Curbing Infections in Prisons
US - 523 inmates test positive for COVID-19 at Ohio federal prison
https://www.fox19.com/2020/06/05/inmates-test-positive-covid-ohio-federal-prison/
US - Murphy’s coronavirus prison release program denies inmates’ rights, N.J. Supreme Court rules
US - Fla. Jail Inmates Sue Sheriff Over Failure To Stop Virus Spread
US - Inmates report dangerous practices inside the Texas prison with the most coronavirus deaths
https://www.texastribune.org/2020/06/08/texas-prison-coronavirus-deaths/
US (Connecticut) - Federal Settlement Reached On Reducing Prison Population To Prevent COVID Spread
Asia
India - Covid-19: Ensure prisons do not turn into a fertile ground for the virus
India - Coronavirus: Maharashtra to Release 11000 More Prisoners on Emergency Parole to Decongest Jails
India - 16 Rohini jail inmates, 12 staff of Delhi Prison dept tested COVID-19 positive so far
India - Sub-jails in Tamil Nadu fill up fast as lockdown restrictions ease
Nepal - Rise in Covid-19 cases across the country prompts concern over already crowded prisons
Pakistan - Court orders medical facilities for Covid-19 positive prisoner
https://www.dawn.com/news/1561562/court-orders-medical-facilities-for-covid-19-positive-prisoner
Pakistan - 560 COVID-19 patients in Karachi jail: officials
Saudi Arabia - 11,000 remote trial sessions held for prisoners
Europe
Self-harm increases among female prisoners in England during pandemic
Three Scottish jails offer virtual visits after weeks of isolation
Oceania
Australia (NSW) - Prison visitation ban stirs tension
News 5 June
Africa
Ghana - Give us isolation center, free minor offenders – Prisoners plead
South Africa - First Covid-19 case at Qalakabusha Prison in Empangeni
https://zululandobserver.co.za/226441/first-covid-19-case-at-qalakabusha-prison-in-empangeni/
Americas
Coronavirus hits Colombian prison population hard
https://thebogotapost.com/coronavirus-hits-colombian-prison-population-hard/46778/
Panama- 702 prisoners with coronavirus
https://menafn.com/1100273254/Panama-702-prisoners-with-coronavirus
US - COVID-19 races through prison facilities in New Mexico
https://the-journal.com/articles/178133-covid19-races-through-prison-facilities-in-new-mexico
US - Incarceration And Its Disseminations: COVID-19 Pandemic Lessons From Chicago’s Cook County Jail
https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2020.00652
US (Texas) - COVID-19 cases spike to highest level due to outbreak at El Paso correctional facility
https://kfoxtv.com/news/local/el-paso-county-sees-197-case-increase-of-covid-19
US (Arkansas) - Active covid-19 prison cases fall
https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2020/jun/05/active-covid-19-prison-cases-fall-20200/
Asia
India - By taking proactive steps, Karnataka makes prisons Covid-free
India - 60 Including Eight Staff Contract Coronavirus At Solapur Jail
Philippines - PDLs with Covid-19 now 222
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104943
Philippines - Davao Region jails still Covid-19-free
Europe
England and Wales - COVID restrictions affect vulnerable women prisoners and mothers had not seen children for two months
England and Wales - Fears after Covid-19 positive prisoner is moved to HMP Usk
https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/18498156.fears-covid-19-positive-prisoner-moved-hmp-usk/
England and Wales - Coronavirus is rife in Welsh prisons despite prisoners being locked in cells for 23 hours a day
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/politics/usk-prison-coronavirus-covid-jail-18354573
Turkey - 'Daily Food Allowance for Prisoners Not Enough for Healthy Nutrition'
Slow response to coronavirus led to unnecessary deaths in UK prisons, says expert
Oceania
Australia - QCS launch prisoner voicemail system to increase connections
https://www.miragenews.com/qcs-launch-prisoner-voicemail-system-to-increase-connections/
News 4 June
Africa
Zimbabwe - Prisons coronavirus infections probed
https://www.herald.co.zw/prisons-coronavirus-infections-probed/
Americas
CARICOM IMPACS Come Bearing Sanitary Supplies for Belize Central Prison
https://edition.channel5belize.com/archives/203684
Canada - Spiritual needs of vulnerable federal inmates unmet during pandemic: chaplains
COVID-19: CARICOM IMPACS and United Kingdom partner to support Dominica prison
COVID-19 and Narco Trafficking: South American countries keen to repatriate prisoners to serve balance sentence in jails back home
US - Sentenced to life as teens, they fear getting coronavirus before getting a second chance
US (Connecticut) - As CT prison population nears 30-year low, fewer intakes drive declines
US - Coronavirus testing increases in West Virginia jails and prisons
http://wvmetronews.com/2020/06/03/coronavirus-testing-increases-in-west-virginia-jails-and-prisons/
US - ACLU lawsuit claims 'cruel and unusual' punishment of Colorado prisoners during COVID-19 pandemic
US - Justice Served? Vermont Considers Corrections Reform to Shrink Its Prison Population
US (North Carolina) - Butner federal prison begins mass COVID testing after six inmates die in eight days
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/coronavirus/article243210251.html
US (Louisiana) - DOC to suspend prisoner release program as state enters phase two of reopening
Asia
India - Madras HC Expressed Grave Concern Over Spreading Of COVID-19 In Jail, Seek Report From Govt
New COVID-19 Outbreak in Iran’s Prisons, Regime’s Inaction, and a Looming Catastrophe
Malaysia - Skype links Kelantan Prison inmates with loved ones during MCO
Europe
England and Wales - Dozens of staff and prisoners at HMP Berwyn have contracted coronavirus https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/dozens-staff-prisoners-hmp-berwyn-18361047
Scots prisons release 350 cons early in bid to protect inmates from coronavirus
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scots-prisons-release-350-cons-22132776
News 3 June
In prisons, COVID-19 is harming mental health
Africa
Kenya - Prisons Department Designates 20 Regional Quarantine Facilities For Inmates
Americas
Canada - Too few video visitation terminals available at prison, inmate's partner says
Cayman Islands - Prison: Three inmates on hunger strike
https://www.caymancompass.com/2020/06/02/prison-three-inmates-on-hunger-strike/
Trinidad & Tobago - T&T prisons to get more sanitisation equipment
http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/tt-prisons-to-get-more-sanitisation-equipment-6.2.1128164.d9b49272e0
US - Two-thirds of COVID-19 cases in federal prisons limited to 7 facilities, official says
US - Give Incarcerated ‘Basic Human Rights’ During Pandemic, Say Families
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/06/02/962769/
US - 'Governor, let me see my kids before I die': pressure mounts to release elderly women from prisons
US - Mass. High Court Refuses To Release Convicted Prisoners Because Of COVID-19
https://www.wbur.org/news/2020/06/02/covid-19-coronavirus-prisoner-release-sjc
US (Maryland) - Inmate details poor COVID-19 prison conditions in striking video
https://thegrio.com/2020/06/02/inmate-covid-19-prison-video/
US (Florida) - Juvenile Justice System Sees More COVID-19 Cases
https://miami.cbslocal.com/2020/06/02/juvenile-justice-system-sees-more-covid-19-cases/
Asia
Bangladesh - HC wants report on how prisons are handling the coronavirus crisis
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/2020/06/02/hc-wants-report-on-prisons-concerning-coronavirus
Cambodia's Proposed Criminal Justice Reforms Should Go Further
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/06/03/cambodias-proposed-criminal-justice-reforms-should-go-further
India's long lockdown led to breakdown of criminal justice system
India - Puzhal prison cluster: 39 prisoners test positive for COVID-19 across TN, source of infection unknown
UNODC and EU strengthen resilience of Sri Lankan prisons to COVID-19
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/Jun02_1591116732CH.php
Yemen rights group says detainees face ‘slow death’ in prison
Europe
COVID19: Prisoner, student among Cyprus cases
https://www.financialmirror.com/2020/06/02/covid19-prisoner-student-among-cyprus-cases/
Prison visits could resume in July in England and Wales
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/jun/02/prison-visits-resume-july-england-wales-coronavirus
Malta - Covid-19: Prison visits to resume on Friday
News 2 June
Africa
Egypt- Interior Ministry continues prison disinfection to curb COVID-19 spread
Mayotte - Covid-19 : 63 nouveaux cas, dont 45 à la prison
https://lejournaldemayotte.yt/2020/06/01/covid-19-63-nouveaux-cas-dont-45-a-la-prison/
Zimbabwe - Coronavirus Hits Prisons, Four Prisoners And Two Officers Test Positive.
Americas
Canada - No early release for provincial inmates in past two weeks
US - COVID-19 shows us that prison healthcare is in dire need of reform
US - Lawmakers question federal prisons' home confinement rules
US - Virus outbreak at West Virginia prison infects more than 100
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Virus-outbreak-at-West-Virginia-prison-infects-15308951.php
US - 10th inmate dies of COVID-19 at California prison
https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/10th-inmate-dies-of-covid-19-at-california-prison
US (California) - Severely crowded Avenal State Prison home to CDCR's worst COVID-19 outbreak: 596 cases
Asia
India - ‘Bail protocol, standardisation needed to ease undertrial burden in prisons’
India - ‘Jail isn’t for detaining undertrials so as to send message to society’
Malaysia - Covid-19: 800 inmates, 700 employees of Sungai Buloh prison to be tested
Oman citizen tests positive for COVID-19 in UAE jail
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200601-oman-citizen-tests-positive-for-covid-19-in-uae-jail/
Europe
Cyprus - Tersephanou rehabilitation centre becomes part-prison for inmates testing positive to Covid-19
Ireland - Prison population falls by 11% during coronavirus pandemic
News 30 May – 1 June
Africa
Coronavirus in Egypt: Death of prison official prompts calls to test, release inmates
Coronavirus breaches Kenyan prison walls, 31 taken ill
Liberia - LNBA Advocates Release of Hundreds of Pre-Trial Detainees From Overcrowded Prisons
Americas
Canada’s elder-care crisis grinds away in our jails, too
Prison with Canada’s worst COVID-19 outbreak houses Inuit inmates
Nicaragua: Political Prisoners Start Hunger Strike, 37 with Covid-19 Symptoms
US - Editorial: Coronavirus shows us the danger and inanity of our prison state
https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2020-05-29/prison-reductions-coronavirus
US - The Case Against Solitary Confinement During Pandemic
US - First COVID-19 Case Confirmed In Utah State Prison
https://ksltv.com/438477/first-covid-19-case-confirmed-in-utah-state-prison/
US - Special master defends early release of Hawaii inmates, says recidivism rate low
Asia
Afghanistan: Life inside Kabul's women's prison during Covid-19
https://www.france24.com/en/20200530-afghanistan-life-inside-kabul-s-women-s-prison-during-covid-19
India - 30 jail inmates test positive for COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu
India - 29 temporary prisons earmarked across Maharashtra
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/29-temporary-prisons-earmarked-across-maharashtra-6433635/
Pakistan - Two inmates succumb to coronavirus in Karachi
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2232330/1-inmate-karachi-central-jail-succumbs-coronavirus/
Philippines - UN agencies call for closure of drug detention centers amid COVID-19 pandemic
Singapore - 3 new inmates and nurse at Changi Prison tested positive for virus in past 2 months
Europe
England and Wales - Fewer than 80 prisoners have been released early to combat the spread of coronavirus
England and Wales - Prison release schemes almost impossible to deliver, says watchdog
England and Wales - Covid causes child detention crisis, and a ‘timebomb’ in adult prisons
Ireland - Locked up in lockdown: How prisons are coping with Covid-19
Ireland - Coronavirus: All new prisoners to be tested for Covid-19
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/coronavirus-all-new-prisoners-to-be-tested-for-covid-19-59tmcpsf7
Scotland - Prisoners not routinely tested for Covid-19 before early release, MSPs told
News 29 May
Africa
Ghana - GHS partners correctional facilities to fortify prisons against Covid-19
Liberia - UNDP Representative Wants Prison Facilities Decongested
Malawi Red Cross Targets Nsanje Prison With Coronavirus Preventive Messages
https://allafrica.com/stories/202005280800.html
Americas
Canada - 9 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in B.C. as major prison outbreak declared over
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/bc-covid-19-update-may-28-1.5589129
US - Is COVID-19 Falling Harder on Black Prisoners? Officials Won’t Tell Us.
US - In Prison, Even Social Distancing Rules Get Weaponized
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2020/05/28/in-prison-even-social-distancing-rules-get-weaponized
US - Formerly Incarcerated People Talk About Life In Coronavirus-Stricken Prisons
US - Colorado released 290 inmates under governor’s executive order — less than 2% of prison population
https://www.fortmorgantimes.com/2020/05/28/colorado-prison-release-coronavirus/
US - Virginia begins releasing new data about COVID-19 in prisons
US (Texas) - 10,000 TX Inmates Granted Parole, Can’t Leave Prison
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/05/28/10000-tx-inmates-granted-parole-cant-leave-prison/
US - Medically vulnerable prisoners sue Colorado prison system over coronavirus threat, lack of care
https://www.broomfieldenterprise.com/2020/05/28/coronavirus-colorado-prisoners-lawsuit/
US - ACLU-NJ: Lifesaving Bill Would Slow Coronavirus Spread by Lowering Prison Population in NJ, Which Has Country’s Highest Death Rate from COVID-19
Asia
India - Emergency parole of 900 convicts extended by 8 weeks
India - Two inmates each of Madurai, Tirunelveli prisons test positive
Lebanese MPs fail to reach agreement on draft amnesty law
Yemen - Human rights organisation: 10,000 detainees in Houthi prisons at risk of coronavirus infection
Europe
England and Wales - Criminology students send ‘distraction packs’ to inmates at 25 prisons
News 28 May
Africa
Eighth death from medical negligence reported in Egypt's prisons
Americas
COVID-19 Has Reached Haiti’s Overcrowded Prisons. Some Fear A Human Rights Disaster
More people are dying in American prisons – here’s how they face the end of their lives
US - Jay-Z-Backed Suit Says Company Downplayed Prison Virus Risks
US - Designing for Decarceration in a Pandemic
https://www.architecturalrecord.com/articles/14645-designing-for-decarceration-in-a-pandemic
US - Inmates: 'inhumane conditions' at California prison amid COVID-19
https://www.ktvu.com/news/inmates-inhumane-conditions-at-california-prison-amid-covid-19
Asia
Cambodia - Crowded prisons will set free 10,000 inmates
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/crowded-prisons-will-set-free-10000-inmates
How the pandemic has affected India’s overcrowded prisons
https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/how-pandemic-has-affected-india-s-overcrowded-prisons-125448
Europe
Alarm over five suicides in six days at prisons in England and Wales
Experience of health professionals, police staff and prisoners in Italy informs WHO COVID-19 guidelines for prisons
News 27 May
Covid-19 Prisoner Releases Too Few, Too Slow
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/05/27/covid-19-prisoner-releases-too-few-too-slow
Africa
Kenya - Measures Put In Place To Combat The Spread Of Covid-19 In Prisons
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/measures-put-in-place-to-combat-the-spread-of-covid-19-in-prisons/
Zambia - President Edgar Lungu Pardons 2,984 Prisoners
https://zambiareports.com/2020/05/22/president-edgar-lungu-pardons-2984-prisoners/
Americas
Canada - BC Corrections looks at extending early release to inmates serving no more than 60 days
US - No Photo ID, No Services: Coronavirus Poses Steep Hurdles After Prison
US - In blow to DOJ, Supreme Court won't block order to move prisoners over coronavirus concerns
'She is worried': Pandemic raises fears for pregnant U.S. inmates
https://news.trust.org/item/20200527091721-vpex5/
US (North Carolina) - Inside A Federal Prison With A Deadly COVID-19 Outbreak, Compromised Men Beg For Help
US - Confirmed COVID-19 cases increased 540% at Texas prison
US (California) - More Testing Reveals Surging Virus Outbreaks At CA Prisons, With More Likely To Follow
Asia
Cambodia - Thai embassy helps prisons prevent coronavirus spread
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50727197/thai-embassy-helps-prisons-prevent-coronavirus-spread/
India - Coronavirus in Maharashtra: Over 18,000 inmates to be released to ensure social distancing
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/over-18000-maharashtra-jail-inmates-to-be-released
Philippines - COVID-19 cases in prisons jump to 194; 161 are inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Dramatic leap in prison staff reported with Covid after MoJ change reporting method
Turkey - 'Who Talks Wears the Mask': Eight Prisoners Given One Mask at Bayburt Prison, Says HDP MP
Oceania
Australia - Aboriginal people in prison and out-of-home care suffering under 'punitive' Covid-19 restrictions
23 – 26 May
Africa
Morocco prisoners make masks for fellow inmates
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1678601/middle-east
South Africa - Coronavirus: Another inmate dies at East London prison
South Africa - Correctional services department records 709 Covid-19 cases
South Africa - Covid-19: Lockdown makes access to justice for prisoners even more difficult
Americas
Deaths in Brazilian prisons increased by 33 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic but only four were tied to the deadly virus as prisoner advocacy group calls for investigation
Canada - Confinement within confinement: It’s time to end medical isolation in prisons
Thirty six inmates test positive for coronavirus in Salvadoran prisons
US - Ohio's prison system has the most virus deaths, starts reopening anyways
US - Pennsylvania prisons to begin lifting lock downs without universal testing
US - As COVID-19 Cuts Deadly Path Through Indiana Prisons, Inmates Say Symptoms Ignored
US - Alabama prisons releasing some inmates early amid COVID-19 outbreak
US - Colorado corrections facilities see high rates of COVID infections; hundreds of prisoner deaths predicted
US - As North Dakota slashes its prison population amid pandemic, other states lag behind
Asia
Bangladesh - 4 more jail guards, an inmate test Covid-19 positive
India - Convicts aged above 60 to get emergency parole: Delhi Prisons officials
India - COVID-19: At Least Three Die in Maharashtra Prisons
https://thewire.in/rights/covid-19-at-least-three-die-in-maharashtra-prisons
India - Covid-19: Yerawada Central Prison releases 1,000 inmates
Indonesia - COVID-19: ICRC expands material support to prisons in West Java and Banten
Indonesia's unconscionable prisoner policy
https://www.thejakartapost.com/academia/2020/05/25/indonesias-unconscionable-prisoner-policy.html
Nepal - Inmates at risk of contracting coronavirus in Kathmandu valley
Covid-19 infections surpass 300 in Pakistan prison
Pakistan - Authorities understating corona infections in prisons: JPP
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2227611/1-authorities-understating-corona-infections-prisons-jpp/
Group calls for transparency in jail reports as coronavirus hits Philippine prisons
Philippines - 517 prisoners in BJMP facilities positive for coronavirus
https://www.rappler.com/nation/261975-prisoners-bjmp-facilities-positive-coronavirus-may-19-2020
UAE - Coronavirus: Dubai's main prison frees hundreds to reduce population
Europe
England and Wales - MPs, peers and bishops call on government to release more women from prison
http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/29623
England and Wales - Recovery from prison lockdown will take up to 18 months
https://insidetime.org/recovery-from-prison-lockdown-will-take-up-to-18-months/
Nearly 1,000 Russian federal prison authority’s staff, over 200 inmates contract COVID-19
https://tass.com/society/1160071
Spain - Tensions over coronavirus boil over in violent weekend in Andalucia prison
Contagion risk in Turkish prisons feared
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1679161/middle-east
News 22 May
Africa
Morocco Unveils Plan to Counter COVID-19 in Prisons, Support Inmates
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 case confirmed at federal prison in Agassiz, B.C.
https://globalnews.ca/news/6970777/covid-19-case-federal-prison-agassiz-bc/
Canada - Advocates say Montreal inmate’s COVID-19 death highlights need for action
https://globalnews.ca/news/6969466/covid-quebec-jail-death/
Rival deadly gangs share the same prison cell: A look at El Salvador's controversial move
Coronavirus detected in Haiti's largest prison
https://www.france24.com/en/20200521-coronavirus-detected-in-haiti-s-largest-prison
US - Letting prisoners use cellphones makes sense – now more than ever
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/may/22/coronavirus-prisons-covid-pandemic-cellphones
Pregnant inmates languish in US prisons despite promises of release amid pandemic
US (Florida) - A COVID-19-positive inmate died after being transferred back to prison from the hospital. His daughter wants answers.
US (Texas) - Inmates Being Granted ‘Compassionate Release’ From Federal Prison Hospital in Fort Worth
US (Michigan) - Judge orders release of medically vulnerable Oakland County Jail inmates; sheriff pledges appeal
Asia
Pakistan - ‘Covid-19 tests of prisoners being conducted’
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/662153-covid-19-tests-of-prisoners-being-conducted
UAE - Dubai prison: Virtual visits and court hearing amid virus crisis
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/dubai-prison-virtual-visits-court-hearing-amid-virus-001802581.html
Oceania
Australia - The people keeping COVID-19 out of prison
https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/the-people-keeping-covid-19-out-of-prison-20200515-p54tg6.html
News 21 May
Africa
Nearly 3,600 convicts granted conditional release in Rwanda: official
Americas
Canada - Civil rights groups call for action after Bordeaux jail inmate dies from COVID-19
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/quebec-inmate-dies-covid-19-1.5577736
US - What’s driving COVID-19 in prisons and jails—and how to fix it
US - Covid-19 cases concerning prisoners' rights hit the Supreme Court
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/05/21/politics/covid-19-supreme-court-prisoners-rights/index.html
US - Federal Judges Are Relying On Bureau Of Prisons COVID-19 Numbers To Make Rulings
US (Alabama) - COVID-19 cases among prison workers reach 36
https://www.alreporter.com/2020/05/20/covid-19-cases-among-prison-workers-reach-36/
US (Texas) - She walked out of jail into a pandemic. Now she can't find the help she needs to get back on her feet.
https://www.texastribune.org/2020/05/20/texas-jail-prison-reentry-coronavirus/
US - Federal judge issues order regarding inmate releases at federal prison in Ohio
US - California prisons to begin accepting inmates as coronavirus deaths mount in Chino
US - I Was in a D.C. Jail as Coronavirus Hit. Anytime Someone Coughed, You Were Concerned
https://time.com/5836216/dc-prisons-coronavirus-inmate-stories/
US - Fewer people being released from Philly jails as pool of eligible cases shrinks
Asia
Bangladesh - Covid-19: 38 prisoners, guards infected so far
India - Why freed prisoners are not jumping with joy
India - Jindal Institute of Behavioural Sciences and International Society of Criminology appeal to Government for release of Undertrials and Petty Offenders to avoid overcrowding during COVID 19
India - Delhi's Mandoli Prison Reports First Covid-19 Case Days After 17 People in Rohini Jail Found Positive
Malaysia - Raya greetings go virtual at prisons as Covid-19 measures continue
Philippines - Outbreak hits Laguna jail; tests start near Zambo prison
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1278441/outbreak-hits-laguna-jail-tests-start-near-zambo-prison
Thailand - Prison visits set to resume from June 1
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1921536/prison-visits-set-to-resume-from-june-1
Europe
England and Wales - Mother appeals for prisoner's temporary release on health grounds
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-52736234
Oceania
The push for prisoners in Australia to be released in case of second Covid-19 wave
News 20 May
Africa
Nigeria - Group trains prison officers on sanctions for offenders amid pandemic
https://www.thecable.ng/group-trains-prison-officers-on-sanctions-for-offenders-amid-pandemic
South Africa - Thousands of parolees eligible for social relief grant
South Africa - Eastern Cape prison records 34 new Covid-19 infections, taking number of cases in SA prisons to 654
Americas
Coronavirus: Packed Brazilian jails lead to fears of calamity
Cayman Islands - 2 cases of COVID-19 confirmed in the prison
https://www.loopcayman.com/content/cayman-2-cases-covid-19-confirmed-prison
US - More than 600 new coronavirus cases reported at Michigan prison
US - Maine inmates say their rights were violated when state didn’t release them from prison
US (Connecticut) - Prison inmates with coronavirus told to shower outside
US - COVID-19 death toll in Texas prisons rises to nearly 40
US - COVID-19 numbers quickly rising in Arizona prisons
US - 'They are setting us up for death': thousands of California prisoners battle Covid-19
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/may/20/california-prisons-covid-19-outbreak-deaths
Asia
Red Cross Concerned About Risk Of COVID-19 Spreading In Bangladeshi Prisons
https://www.urdupoint.com/en/world/red-cross-concerned-about-risk-of-covid-19-sp-924796.html
Singapore sentences man to death via Zoom call
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/20/singapore-sentences-man-to-death-via-zoom-call
Europe
Prisons in England and Wales hit by nearly 1,000 coronavirus cases
https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/19/prisons-england-wales-hit-nearly-1000-coronavirus-cases-12728938/
England and Wales - Dozens of coronavirus cases confirmed at HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, figures show
France - risons : « Si rien n’est fait, on risque de remonter très vite à un taux d’occupation inacceptable »
Over 150 Scots prisoners freed early to help contain spread of coronavirus
https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/over-150-scots-prisoners-freed-18278864
Turkey stops testing prisoners for Covid-19 in notorious Silivri prison
https://stockholmcf.org/turkey-stops-testing-prisoners-for-covid-19-in-notorious-silivri-prison/
News 19 May
Africa
Nigeria - COVID-19: Inmates Awaiting Trial Languish In Ondo Prisons As Courts Remain Closed
South Africa - Why the release of 19,000 prisoners is a good thing
South Africa - Justice Department could scrap criminal records after lockdown
Americas
El Salvador - Notorious rival gang members find a way to coexist inside overpopulated jail cells after Salvadoran president's crackdown on violence
Special Report: 'Death Sentence' - the hidden coronavirus toll in U.S. jails and prisons
US - Will the Coronavirus Make Us Rethink Mass Incarceration?
US (Texas) - Ninth inmate dies from coronavirus at FMC Fort Worth prison
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/coronavirus/article242819616.html
US - Fourth inmate dies of COVID-19 at Kansas' largest prison
Asia
Cambodia - Justice Ministry: ‘Reforms’ Will Hasten Court Procedures to Reduce Prison Overcrowding
India - Mumbai Central jail: ‘We didn’t sleep, sat in barracks to ensure we didn’t end up sleeping near an infected inmate’
Qatar confirms coronavirus in jail but denies widespread outbreak
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners with coronavirus symptoms could not shower for two weeks – report
Ireland - Addict lost rehab place over Covid-19
Scots prisons breach human rights during lockdown
https://thirdforcenews.org.uk/tfn-news/scots-prisons-breach-human-rights-during-lockdown
News 16 – 18 May
Africa
South Africa - Almost 600 coronavirus infections in SA’s prisons
https://www.heraldlive.co.za/news/2020-05-18-almost-600-coronavirus-infections-in-sas-prisons/
Americas
Bahamas - COVID-19 testing underway at prison underway
https://ewnews.com/covid-19-testing-underway-at-prison-underway
Bolivia COVID-19 update, Outbreak at Palmasola prison
http://outbreaknewstoday.com/bolivia-covid-19-update-outbreak-at-palmasola-prison-34406/
COVID-19 highlights the inhumanity of Canada's prisons
'We're all on death row now': Latin America's prisons reel from Covid-19
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/16/latin-america-prisons-covid-19-riots
Mexico - Juárez reports virus death for 6th day in a row, 15 new cases including a prison outbreak
US - California’s prisons and jails have emptied thousands into a world changed by coronavirus
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-05-17/coronavirus-prison-jail-releases
US (Ohio) - Lawsuit alleges cruel and unusual punishment, seeks release of 15,000 inmates amid outbreak
US - Texas Inmates Sue Over Coronavirus Concerns at Prisons
https://classifieds.usatoday.com/press/texas-inmates-sue-over-coronavirus-concerns-at-prisons/
US - NJ prisons report more than 150 COVID-19 cases in 3 days
Asia
Afghanistan - 50 Prisoners, Prison Workers Test Positive for COVID-19: Doctors
https://tolonews.com/health/50-prisoners-prison-workers-test-positive-covid-19-doctors
India - Over 42,000 undertrials released to unclog prisons: NALSA report
Indian inmates released from crowded jails to limit Covid-19 spread
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/indian-inmates-released-crowded-jails-135234290.html
India - 125 prisoners, jail superintendent test corona positive in Rajasthan
India - Punjab allows release of prisoners beyond 16 weeks a year
India - COVID-19: 3,000 inmates released from West Bengal jails
https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/covid19-3000-inmates-released-from-west-bengal-jails/1837310
India - Parole, bail of 30% prisoners in Chandigarh’s Model Jail extended
India - Prisoners could soon be housed in private and govt buildings
India - COVID-19 Pandemic: 7,200 Inmates Released From Odisha Jails
https://sambadenglish.com/covid-19-pandemic-7200-inmates-released-from-odisha-jails/
Maldives - COVID-19: Inmates, guards at Himmafushi prison being tested
Over 140 prisoners infected with COVID-19 in Pakistan
https://www.geo.tv/latest/288550-over-140-prisoners-infected-with-covid-19-in-pakistan
Philippines - 18,355 PDLs released from PNP lockup cells, BJMP jails nationwide
https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/18/18355-pdls-released-from-pnp-lockup-cells-bjmp-jails-nationwide/
Philippines - CHR seeks better conditions for persons deprived of liberty
https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/16/chr-seeks-better-conditions-for-persons-deprived-of-liberty/
Europe
Covid-19 in Europe's prisons - and the response
https://euobserver.com/opinion/148385
England and Wales - Almost 2,000 tags bought for UK Covid-19 prisoner releases remain unused
England and Wales - Covid-19 update: More than a thousand prisoners share cells at Welsh ‘super prison’
28 inmates in Irish prisons in isolation with coronavirus symptoms
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/28-inmates-irish-prisons-isolation-22034811
Isle of Man minister says inmates were detained 24 hours a day
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-52691702#
Two coronavirus deaths in 24 hours at one of Scotland's maximum security prisons
Sixth prisoner death in Scotland linked to coronavirus
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-52677858
Scotland - Twelve prisoners released early from Perth Prison to try and tackle the spread of the coronavirus
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/twelve-prisoners-released-early-perth-22034462
News 15 May
Africa
Nigeria - CJN Orders Speedy Trial Of Cases, Decongestion Of Custodial Centres
South Africa - Prisons ‘breeding grounds’ for communicable and infectious diseases, including Covid-19
South Africa - Where, when and how - Correctional Services outlines plans for release of 19 000 inmates
Zimbabwe Death Row Prisoners Benefit From Covid-Amnesty
https://www.fairplanet.org/story/zimbabwe-death-row-prisoners-benefit-from-covid-amnesty/
Americas
Across the Americas, prisons are hothousing the coronavirus
https://www.equaltimes.org/across-the-americas-prisons-are#.Xr5sZ2hKg2w
Cut off by coronavirus: Hondurans in packed prison suffer mental toll
U.S. Prison Population Remained Stable as Pandemic Grew
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/14/us/prison-populations-covid.html
US - As coronavirus spreads behind bars, prisons release very few people
https://theintercept.com/2020/05/14/prison-release-coronavirus/
US - Another 100 Florida prison inmates test positive for COVID-19
https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/another-100-florida-prison-inmates-test-positive-for-covid-19
US (New Jersey) - Despite promise of release, N.J. has highest COVID-19 prison death rate in the nation
US - The largest prison in Kansas reports 750 positive tests for COVID-19
https://www.koamnewsnow.com/the-largest-prison-in-kansas-reports-750-positive-tests-for-covid-19/
Asia
India - Explained: Freeing prisoners in emergency
India - After 12 Agra Prison Inmates Test Covid-19 Positive, UP Govt Starts Random Testing In All 71 Jails In State
South Korea - Seoul courts close after prison officer catches coronavirus
https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2020/05/119_289568.html
Europe
England and Wales - Secure video calls to help prisoners maintain family ties
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/secure-video-calls-to-help-prisoners-maintain-family-ties
Italy - 498 high-security prisoners out
Scotland - Death of sixth inmate linked to coronavirus
https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/news/scotland/death-of-sixth-inmate-linked-to-coronavirus/
Oceania
Australia - Prison outbreak: Prisoners released to protect them from COVID-19
News 14 May
UNODC, WHO, UNAIDS and OHCHR joint statement on COVID-19 in prisons and other closed settings
Africa
Nigeria - COVID-19: Niger State Releases 118 Prison Inmates
https://prnigeria.com/2020/05/13/covid-niger-releases-inmates/
South Africa - KZN prison official latest to contract Covid-19 as virus soars in prisons across country
South Africa - Edwin Cameron | A visit to 'Sun City' prison: Nightmare to manage the virus in confined spaces
Americas
Nicaragua releases more than 2,800 inmates amid pandemic
https://wnyt.com/health/nicaragua-releases-more-than-2800-inmates-amid-pandemic/5728972/?cat=656
US - ‘Come on, we’re human beings’: Judges question response to coronavirus pandemic in federal prisons
US - The Deadly Spread Of Coronavirus Is Hitting Women's Prisons
US - Envisioning the New Normal After the Coronavirus Prison Crisis
https://nationalinterest.org/feature/envisioning-new-normal-after-coronavirus-prison-crisis-153901
US - Mississippi has tested fewer than 1% of state prisoners and staff for COVID-19
Venezuelan prison director and five soldiers charged in prison massacre case
Oceania
Australia - 'Negotiations' with inmates end Darwin prison siege
News 13 May
Africa
South Africa - Western Cape warders strike, demand mass testing at prison
South Africa - Riot breaks out at Eastern Cape prison after ‘gross violation of rights’
https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/prison-riot-eastern-cape-lusikisiki-covid-19-2020/
Americas
Moments cops storm Bolivia's most dangerous prison during mass rebellion where inmates chanted 'we want to live' after riot broke out when 'three inmates died from suspected COVID-19 in three days'
Canada - Convicted murderer sues feds over prison conditions during COVID-19
Coronavirus: The Colombian jail with 859 cases
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-52632919
Coronavirus cases spike in second Colombian prison
US - More than 240 inmates test positive for COVID-19 at Arkansas prison
https://www.wmcactionnews5.com/2020/05/12/more-than-inmates-test-positive-covid-arkansas-prison/
US - Eight Florida prisons are hot spots for COVID-19
US (Virginia) - DOC reaches settlement in lawsuit over prison conditions
https://www.cbs19news.com/story/42121878/doc-reaches-settlement-in-lawsuit-over-prison-conditions
US (Ohio) - Despite staggering case counts and 50 deaths, prisons halt mass COVID-19 testing
Venezuela Prison Implodes Under Additional Strain From Coronavirus
https://www.insightcrime.org/news/analysis/venezuela-prison-implodes-coronavirus/
Asia
Bangladesh - Prisoner dies in Sylhet hospital of Covid-19
https://www.thedailystar.net/city/news/prisoner-dies-sylhet-hospital-covid-19-1902136
Inmates Protest Over the Spread of COVID-19 in Northwest Iran Prison
Europe
Coronavirus: only 55 prisoners freed early in England and Wales
News 12 May
Africa
Benin - Covid-19: émeute ce matin à la prison civile de Lomé
https://beninwebtv.com/2020/05/covid-19-emeute-ce-matin-a-la-prison-civile-de-lome/
Kenya - 42 Inmates At Industrial Area Remand Prison Isolated After Contact With 2 COVID-19 Cases
Americas
US - Twitter CEO gives $10M to help prisons battle coronavirus
https://www.politico.com/news/2020/05/11/twitter-million-dollars-prisons-coronavirus-248419
US - Solitary, Brawls, No Teachers: Coronavirus Makes Juvenile Jails Look Like Adult Prisons
US - COVID-19 positive tests in Texas prison system tops 2,000
https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2020/05/11/covid-19-positive-tests-in-texas-prison-system-tops-2000/
US - 12th Georgia prison inmate dies from the coronavirus
US - Coronavirus outbreak revealed at private Colorado prison; second inmate death reported
https://coloradosun.com/2020/05/11/colorado-prisons-coronavirus-covid19/
US - ‘Deeply disturbing’: LA prisoners filmed trying to catch coronavirus in hope of early release
Asia
India - 1,700 women undertrials released since lockdown began: NCW
India - High power panel decides to release 17,000 prisoners from Maharashtra jails
Indonesia - Prisons less overcrowded thanks to early release of inmates over COVID-19
Rouhani’s Acknowledgement That 100 out of 120 Prisoners Are Infected With COVID-19 Shows How Deplorable Iran’s Prisons Are
Covid-19: We're clean, says Prisons Department in Malaysia
https://www.asiaone.com/malaysia/covid-19-were-clean-says-prisons-department-malaysia
Europe
Cyprus - Special committee to suggest solution to prison overcrowding
https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/05/11/special-committee-to-suggest-solution-to-prison-overcrowding/
Over 500 prison staff in Scotland currently off sick due to coronavirus
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/over-500-prison-staff-scotland-22011092
Covid-19 Spreading Fast in Turkey's Prisons, Rights Defenders Warn
News 8 - 11 May
WHO launches checklist to support prison administrators and policy-makers for rapid and effective response to COVID-19
Africa
Prisons in the Time of the Coronavirus Pandemic in Africa
https://africanarguments.org/2020/05/08/prisons-in-the-time-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic-in-africa/
Coronavirus infections at Moroccan prisons jump to 397
South Africa - Covid-19: Correctional services records 15 new cases in prison system
South Africa - 19,000 more prisoners will be paroled to ease jail overcrowding
Sudan: Riot in Darfur prison amid pandemic
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/sudan-riot-in-darfur-prison-amid-pandemic/1834078
Uganda Prisons to Release Civil Debtors to Ease on Congestion
https://chimpreports.com/uganda-prisons-to-release-civil-debtors-to-ease-on-congestion/
Americas
‘Disaster waiting to happen’: Inside the biggest prison coronavirus outbreak in Canada
Coronavirus outbreak in Colombia prison sparks fear among officials, families
US - Why Did It Take the Feds Weeks to Report COVID-19 Cases In Privately Run Prisons?
US - 3 California prison inmates die from COVID-19 complications
https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/05/07/3-california-prison-inmates-die-from-covid-19-complications/
US - Ninth inmate dies of coronavirus at Elkton federal prison in Ohio
US - Colorado’s prison population is dropping, but not fast enough, advocates say
https://www.coloradoindependent.com/2020/05/07/colorados-prison-population-historic-low-pandemic/
US - 3 Michigan inmates with coronavirus sent to virus-free prison after lab mix-up, corrections official says
US (Wisconsin) - Corrections: Nearly 1,600 inmates released due to COVID-19
https://www.startribune.com/corrections-nearly-1-600-inmates-released-due-to-covid-19/570302832/
Asia
Bangladesh- 2,329 prisoners to be released from jail amid Covid-19 crisis
Cambodia - Prison overcrowding on table
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/prison-overcrowding-table
India - 103 test positive at Arthur Road prison
Indonesia - Jakarta prison warden reveals risks of working in overcrowded jail amid COVID-19 pandemic
Lebanon’s biggest prison now has a Covid-19 isolation ward
Pakistan - 47 prisoners in Punjab infected with Covid-19: SC told
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2218000/1-47-prisoners-punjab-infected-covid-19-sc-told/
Philippines - Videoconference hearings lead to release of 4,683 prisoners in a week
https://www.rappler.com/nation/260487-videoconference-hearings-release-thousands-prisoners-in-a-week
Thai inmates meet loved ones via video call amid ban on visits
Europe
England and Wales - Plans for early prisoner release shelved by government
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-52607618#
Coronavirus: New Isle of Man inmates confined to cells for two weeks
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-52583350
Italy tightens rules coronavirus prison releases for mafia members
https://www.thelocal.it/20200510/italy-tightens-rules-coronavirus-prison-releases-for-mafia-members
Ireland - Drop in numbers being jailed helps Covid-19 battle among prisoners
Ireland - Number of prison inmates in Cork plummets due to coronavirus
Coronavirus in Ireland – Five prison staff contract Covid-19 but Irish Prison Service say no inmates test positive
https://www.thesun.ie/news/5414019/coronavirus-ireland-five-staff-covid-no-inmates-positive/
Activists call for amnesty as COVID-19 spreads in Russian jails
https://www.dw.com/en/activists-call-for-amnesty-as-covid-19-spreads-in-russian-jails/a-53368640
Scotland - Calls for publication of plans to stop prisoners becoming homeless after early release
https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/calls-publication-plans-stop-prisoners-18230000
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - COVID-19 testing rolled out to prisoners and prison staff
New Zealand - Coronavirus: Prison 'timebomb' fears as frustration and boredom build
News 7 May
Africa
Coronavirus: Nigeria's death penalty by Zoom 'inhumane'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-52560918
Americas
Coronavirus Turns House Arrest Into Hot Button Issue in Argentina
https://www.insightcrime.org/news/analysis/argentina-coronavirus-house-arrest/
Canada - Laval inmate dies after contracting COVID-19 as Quebec prisons deal with outbreaks
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/quebec-laval-inmate-covid19-1.5557590
Canada - Number of inmates in Manitoba jails drops by almost 30% in wake of COVID-19 pandemic
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-jails-inmates-numbers-down-coronavirus-1.5558238
US prison COVID-19 infections hit 30,000: university
https://www.france24.com/en/20200506-us-prison-covid-19-infections-hit-30-000-university
CDC report details extent of coronavirus outbreaks in U.S. jails and prisons
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/coronavirus-outbreaks-jails-prisons-cdc-report-covid-19/
America’s Crowded Prisons Are About To Create A Coronavirus Crisis In Rural America
https://theintercept.com/2020/05/07/coronavirus-america-rural-prisons/
US - Other Countries’ Courts Are Treating the Prison Pandemic as A Real Emergency
https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2020/05/international-prisons-coronavirus-punishment.html
US (Delaware) - Corrections reports 10% drop in inmate headcount during coronavirus crisis
US (New Mexico) - State to begin widespread COVID-19 testing in prisons
Asia
The Risk Of Coronavirus In Afghanistan's Prisons Is Complicating Peace Efforts
https://www.wrvo.org/post/risk-coronavirus-afghanistans-prisons-complicating-peace-efforts
Bangladesh - Coronavirus: Visits from relatives suspended as prisoners, prison guards infected
India - Delhi: Convicts among 3,500 prisoners let off to decongest jails
India - Delhi High Powered Committee Recommends 45 Days Extension of Interim Bail to Under Trial Prisoners
India - COVID-19: Parole of 4,000 inmates of Haryana jails extended by 6 weeks
Pakistan: Authorities Must Be Transparent About COVID-19 Cases in Prisons
Uncertain future for Philippines' freed child prisoners
https://www.ucanews.com/news/uncertain-future-for-philippines-freed-child-prisoners/87948
Europe
England and Wales - Prison reform bodies urge ministers not to ditch early release scheme
England and Wales - Ministers Were Warned 3,500 Could Die Of Coronavirus In Prisons
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Young offenders out of cells for 40 minutes a day
Isle of Man - Prison governor refutes claims over poor treatment of inmates
Italy's government looks to reverse flood of mafiosi leaving jail over coronavirus
News 6 May
COVID-19: UN teams step up efforts to protect rights in prisons, as revolts intensify worldwide
https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/05/1063292
Africa
Angola’s Prisons Ill-Equipped to Curb Covid-19 Spread
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/05/05/angolas-prisons-ill-equipped-curb-covid-19-spread
Coronavirus au Bénin : libération conditionnelle de plus de 400 prisonniers
DR Congo - RDC : des libérations de détenus envisagées face aux craintes de propagation du coronavirus en prison
Nigeria - NCWS decries alleged gender inequality in prison decongestion
https://guardian.ng/news/ncws-decries-alleged-gender-inequality-in-prison-decongestion/
South Africa - Covid-19 | Two East London prison inmates die amid 'significant increase' in recoveries
South Africa - Frustrated inmates at St Albans set fire to parts of the building
Zimbabwe - 2 528 more prisoners released
https://www.herald.co.zw/2-528-more-prisoners-released/
Americas
Prison Contagion in Americas 'Deeply Worrying', U.N. Says
Latin America’s Prison Gangs Draw Strength From the Pandemic
A second inmate in a Canadian federal prison has died of COVID-19
https://www.theloop.ca/ctvnews/a-second-inmate-in-a-canadian-federal-prison-has-died-of-covid-19/
US - Over 5,000 corrections officers have contracted COVID-19
https://abc11.com/over-5000-corrections-officers-have-contracted-covid-19/6155768/
US - A Dangerous Limbo: Probation and Parole in the Time of COVID-19
US - States Are Halting Executions Because of the Pandemic—But Not Missouri
US - At Louisiana prison, 192 out of 195 inmates test positive for COVID-19
US - Almost 1,000 Prisoners Released In Mass. Amid Pandemic
https://www.wbur.org/news/2020/05/05/almost-1000-prisoners-released-in-mass-amid-pandemic
Asia
Coronavirus fears in south east Asia's overcrowded prisons as Covid-19 rapidly spreads among inmates
Saudi Arabia - SR1m fine and 5 years jail for violating coronavirus measures
Europe
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Defendants more likely to be jailed in video hearings, research warns amid rise of remote justice
Challenges abound for prisoners released early from French prisons due to Covid-19
https://www.france24.com/en/20200505-challenges-abound-for-prisoners-released-early-due-to-covid-19
Northern Ireland - Man with Covid-19 remanded into custody in NI
https://www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk/news/national/18427464.man-covid-19-remanded-custody-ni/
Scotland - Regulations to allow release of short-term prisoners laid at Holyrood
Coronavirus is exposing the health crisis within UK prisons
https://inews.co.uk/opinion/comment/coronavirus-health-crisis-prisons-2843126
Oceania
Australia - Prison advocates call on Government to take more action to prevent COVID-19 outbreak in jails
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-06/government-urged-to-protect-inmates-from-covid19/12217928
News 5 May
Africa
DR Congo prison COVID-19 cases double in 48 hours
https://punchng.com/dr-congo-prisons-covid-19-cases-double-in-48-hours/
South Africa - Lamola ducks questions on release of 19,000 prisoners to counter Covid-19
Americas
Mexico warns states against prison terms to enforce lockdown
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3928229
US - As virus spreads in jails and prisons, correctional officers fear for themselves and their loved ones
US - Covid-19 Continues Its Toll on Jails and Prisons
US (California) - 6th inmate with coronavirus dies at Terminal Island prison in San Pedro
US - COVID-19 deaths and cases continue to rise at Indiana prisons
US - Kentucky gov: Prison virus figures will be ‘pretty tough’
https://www.wnky.com/kentucky-gov-prison-virus-figures-will-be-pretty-tough/
US - From Inmates To Officers: Texas Prisons Are Becoming A Coronavirus Hotbed
https://www.refinery29.com/en-gb/2020/05/9777756/texas-prison-coronavirus-inmates-officers-cases
US - Over 75% of people tested in Philly jails are positive for COVID-19
https://billypenn.com/2020/05/04/over-75-of-people-tested-in-philly-jails-are-positive-for-covid-19/
US (New Jersey) - Lawsuit calls for immediate release of vulnerable inmates at Fort Dix federal prison
US - New Mexico Court Denies Mass Prisoner Release During Virus
Asia
Bangladesh - Jail authorities start to release 2,884 inmates
https://www.newagebd.net/article/105722/jail-authorities-start-to-release-2884-inmates
India - Bihar: Few new prisoners amid lockdown 3.0
50 Women Infected With Coronavirus in Southwest Iran Prison
Philippines - Health Dept. to give 10,000 COVID-19 test kits for inmates
https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/5/4/DOH-test-kits-COVID-19-inmates.html
Overcrowded prisons and camps in northeast Syria raise fears of COVID-19 outbreak
Europe
Fears over drugs drought in Northern Ireland jails as Covid-19 visits ban hits substances supply
Coronavirus in Scotland: Prison governors to have final say over early releases
Scotland - Coronavirus: Ex-inmate warning over Barlinnie 'tensions'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-52539415
Turkey - Rights Groups Call for Prison Release Amid Pandemic
http://bianet.org/english/health/223785-rights-groups-call-for-prison-release-amid-pandemic
News 2-4 May
Africa
Coronavirus cases at Moroccan prisons jump to 341
Nigeria - COVID-19: 101 prison inmates set free in Kwara
https://dailypost.ng/2020/05/02/covid-19-101-prison-inmates-set-free-in-kwara/
South Africa - Correctional services not considering mass release of prisoners
Europe to Uganda: Don’t shut courts and leave prisoners stranded
https://76crimes.com/2020/05/01/europe-to-uganda-dont-shut-courts-and-leave-prisoners-stranded/
Americas
Argentina - Protest against release of prisoners ups pressure on Fernández
Inmates Riot at Brazil Prison Over No Visits Amid Pandemic
https://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2020/05/02/world/americas/ap-lt-brazil-prison-riot.html
Cuba releases thousands of prison inmates amid coronavirus fears
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/cuba/article242435511.html
US - A State-by-State Look at Coronavirus in Prisons
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2020/05/01/a-state-by-state-look-at-coronavirus-in-prisons
US - 1,299 inmates test positive for virus at Tennessee prison
https://www.wrcbtv.com/story/42080346/1299-inmates-test-positive-for-virus-at-tennessee-prison
US - Death row inmates sue Texas prison system over health conditions during COVID-19 pandemic
US - 70% of Texas prisoners tested have the coronavirus. Experts say it's time for more testing and fewer inmates.
https://www.texastribune.org/2020/05/04/coronavirus-texas-prisons-testing/
US - Hawai‘i Judiciary Frees 37% of Prison Population in Two Months
https://bigislandnow.com/2020/05/03/hawaii-judiciary-frees-37-of-prison-population-in-two-months/
Asia
Bangladesh set to release another 385 inmates early to combat virus risks
India - Prison authorities told to allow video calls between jail inmates, their kin
Rise in coronavirus cases in crowded Indian jails prompts concerns
Philippines: Nearly 10,000 prisoners released over virus fears
Philippines - COVID-19, curfew arrests magnify jail system’s ills
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1268276/covid-19-curfew-arrests-magnify-jail-systems-ills
Thai relatives can meet inmates using Line app
https://www.pattayamail.com/coronavirus/thai-relatives-can-meet-inmates-using-line-app-298116
Europe
England and Wales - How coronavirus is spreading through UK prisons
https://www.newstatesman.com/science-tech/2020/05/how-coronavirus-spreading-through-uk-prisons
England and Wales - Nearly 350 prisoners test positive for coronavirus across 73 jails, officials say as Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett urges judges and magistrates to consider Covid crisis gripping prisons when deciding whether to jail offenders
England and Wales - Devon prisoner who tested positive for coronavirus has died
https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/local-news/devon-prisoner-who-tested-positive-4096463
Coronavirus: Phones in cells for affected inmates from Tuesday, Irish Prison Service confirm
Turkey extends coronavirus measures in prisons until May 15
https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/turkey-extends-coronavirus-measures-in-prisons-until-may-15-154377
News 1 May
Prisons are “in no way equipped” to deal with COVID-19
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)30984-3/fulltext
Africa
COVID-19: Afghanistan pardons over 12,000 prisoners
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/covid-19-afghanistan-pardons-over-12-000-prisoners/1820251
Overcrowded DRC prisons 'ticking time-bomb' for COVID-19 pandemic
Coronavirus cases confirmed in DR Congo prison
https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/africa/Coronavirus-cases-confirmed-in-DR-Congo-prison-939010
Seven killed in Sierra Leone prison riot on Wednesday - police
South Africa - Covid-19: Prisons, overcrowding and preventing transmission
Coronavirus: Reports of outbreak in Sudan prison holding Bashir cause uproar
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/coronavirus-sudan-outbreak-bashir-prison-uproar
Zimbabwe - Clemency Order Extended To Clear Prisons Of All Bedridden Prisoners
Americas
Mission Institution: Voices from inside Canada’s worst COVID-19 prison outbreak
Canada - Thirty-eight per cent of Her Majesty's Penitentiary inmates released; St. John's crime rate lower than this time last year
Coronavirus: Colombia foils jail break attempt amid contagion fears
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-52454524
US - 31 dead, thousands infected in Ohio prisons; counts climb at five facilities
US (Michigan) - Inmates sue state over COVID-19 prison conditions
https://www.wxyz.com/news/inmates-sue-state-over-covid-19-prison-conditions
US - New York Prisons Scramble To Fill Medical Jobs As Covid Cases Rise
https://thecity.nyc/2020/04/new-york-prisons-try-to-fill-medical-jobs-as-covid-19-rises.html
US - Kansas Prisons Are Fighting A Lawsuit To Release Prisoners To Reduce COVID-19 Spread
US - How COVID-19 is shrinking Connecticut’s prison population
https://ctmirror.org/2020/05/01/how-covid-19-is-shrinking-connecticuts-prison-population/
US - Judges have released more than 500 Hawaii inmates during pandemic
Asia
Cambodia - ICRC donates over 7,000 surgical gowns to prisons
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50718927/icrc-donates-over-7000-surgical-gowns-to-prisons/
India - Maharashtra: Nagpur central prison locked down to halt COVID-19 spread
Philippines - 1 dead, 17 catch virus in Cebu provincial jail
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1267604/1-dead-17-catch-virus-in-cebu-provincial-jail
Philippines - DOJ: New rules on pardon, parole to wait 15 days more
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1267718/doj-new-rules-on-pardon-parole-to-wait-15-days-more
Europe
Albania – Prison hospital to treat coronavirus infected inmates
https://www.albaniandailynews.com/index.php?idm=41857&mod=2
England and Wales - ‘Worrying’ rise of prison staff contracting coronavirus
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Mother slams PPE supply after prison officer death
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-52490680
England and Wales - Pregnant women are being kept in jail despite the risk to their lives – and their babies
West Midlands prisons suffer most coronavirus cases in England
Five Northern Ireland prison officers diagnosed with Coronavirus, says Justice Minister
https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-news/five-northern-ireland-prisoner-officers-18176837
Russian Supreme Court advises against jailing people accused of minor offenses due to COVID-19 pandemic
West Lothian jail has 'vast majority' of Scottish prison coronavirus cases
https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/west-lothian-jail-vast-majority-18179663
Oceania
Australia - Human rights lawyers laud decision on prisoner rights amid coronavirus fears
Australia - Former detention centre to house ex-prisoners during COVID-19 pandemic
New Zealand - Women at Auckland prison confined to cells for up to 29 hours, diary shows
News 30 April
Africa
Sierra Leone - Rioting and shooting at Pademba road prison in Freetown – one prison officer dead
Americas
Dominican Republic - COVID-19 infects 255 inmates at notorious prison
https://dominicantoday.com/dr/local/2020/04/29/covid-19-infects-255-inmates-at-notorious-prison/
‘Time is running out’: Alarming number of positive coronavirus tests point to crisis in US prisons
US - Over 70% of tested inmates in federal prisons have COVID-19
https://www.wbrz.com/news/over-70-of-tested-inmates-in-federal-prisons-have-covid-19
US - California prisons report 194 coronavirus cases, plan to bunk inmates in groups of eight
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/California-prisons-report-194-COVID-19-cases-15235154.php
US - Three more inmates at Indiana prisons have died from COVID-19
US - Colorado's largest prison has state's biggest outbreak
https://www.newstimes.com/news/article/Colorado-s-largest-prison-has-state-s-biggest-15235478.php
Asia
Bangladesh - Coronavirus: Prisoners expected to be released in May
India - Prisons in DK, Udupi set up quarantine facilities for inmates
India - Overcrowded Jails: Maharashtra Government Yet To Decide On A Supreme Court's Recommendation
Philippines - DOH issues guidelines amid coronavirus infections in prisons, jails
Philippines - SC allows reduced bail, release on recognizance for poor detainees during COVID-19 crisis
Thailand - Prison visit ban extended
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1910620/prison-visit-ban-extended
Europe
Coronavirus: 14 inmates test positive in Belgium
COVID-19: Belgium's overcrowded prisons a 'powder keg' for infections
Cyprus - Coronavirus: Released inmates ask to go back to prison
https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/04/29/coronavirus-released-inmates-ask-to-go-back-to-prison/
Coronavirus crisis exit strategy launched in Estonian prisons
https://www.baltictimes.com/coronavirus_crisis_exit_strategy_launched_in_estonian_prisons/
Malta - Court dismisses claim of poor conditions at Valletta lock-up
Turkey - CİSST Association Report on Violations of Rights in Prisons Amid Covid-19 Pandemic
Oceania
New Zealand - Coronavirus: Deportees are sitting in prison cells after police cancel escort duties
News 29 April
Africa
Coronavirus reaches prisons in Guinea and Sierra Leone
https://www.macaubusiness.com/coronavirus-reaches-prisons-in-guinea-and-sierra-leone/
More than 300 virus cases in Morocco prisons
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1666521/middle-east
Nigeria - COVID-19: Lawyers Alert to drag govt to court over poor, slow pace of prison decongestion
South Africa - Five new Covid-19 cases at Pretoria prison
https://rekordeast.co.za/335252/five-new-covid-19-cases-at-pretoria-prison/
Uganda - Museveni pardons 833 prisoners countrywide
Americas
More than 1,000 inmates are released in Argentina after president calls on government to consider house arrest as fears over the spread of coronavirus sparks riots at prisons
Canada - What it’s like in—and once you’re out of—jail during COVID-19
Canada - Rights groups demand COVID-19 prisoner death inquest
https://www.squamishchief.com/rights-groups-demand-covid-19-prisoner-death-inquest-1.24126059
El Salvador Authorizes Lethal Force Against Suspected Gang Members as Prisons Go on Full Lockdown
Nine inmates killed in coronavirus prison riot in Peru
US - Federal Prisons Told Inmates They Were Coming Home Because of COVID-19. Then They Took It Back.
US - This Crisis Demands an End to Mass Incarceration
https://www.thenation.com/article/politics/coronavirus-incarceration-prosecutors/
US - In New Jersey Prisons, 29 Coronavirus Deaths And Only 184 Tests
https://theintercept.com/2020/04/28/coronavirus-new-jersey-prisons/
US - Mass outbreak of COVID-19 infections erupts at second Tennessee prison
https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2020/apr/28/covid-19-second-tn-prison/521749/
US - Second inmate from Arizona prisons reported dead from coronavirus
https://ktar.com/story/3101569/second-inmate-from-arizona-prisons-reported-dead-from-coronavirus/
US - Oregon jails see decline in number of inmates
https://kobi5.com/news/local-news/oregon-jails-see-decline-in-number-of-inmates-127346/
U.S. federal inmate dies of COVID-19 after giving birth while on ventilator
Asia
Bangladesh - 13 prison guards contract COVID-19
https://www.newagebd.net/article/105364/13-prison-guards-contract-covid-19
Fear and illness stalk Indonesia's packed jails as prisoners hope for early release
Philippines - Jail mass tests planned as infections near 8,000
https://www.bworldonline.com/jail-mass-tests-planned-as-infections-near-8000/
Philippines: Prison Deaths Unreported Amid Pandemic
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/04/28/philippines-prison-deaths-unreported-amid-pandemic
Philippines - TIMELINE: The bid to release low-risk, sick, elderly prisoners in PH
Philippines - Gov’t expediting probation, parole of convicts to decongest jails
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1101356
Europe
Nearly 1,800 'possible' coronavirus cases in English and Welsh prisons
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/apr/28/nearly-1800-possible-coronavirus-cases-in-uk-prisons
England and Wales - Update on COVID-19 in prisons
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/update-on-covid-19-in-prisons
England and Wales - Further expansion of prison estate to protect NHS
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/further-expansion-of-prison-estate-to-protect-nhs
England and Wales - Prisons may have to remain in lockdown for a year to prevent 'explosion' of coronavirus
Portugal releases 1,867 inmates under coronavirus scheme
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-04/28/c_139015897.htm
Turkey - 120 Prisoners in 4 Prisons Diagnosed with Covid-19, Says Justice Minister
Oceania
Australia - Virus fears prompt court fight to free Victorian prisoner
News 28 April
Africa
Cameroon: Agbor Balla urges Gov’t to address COVID-19 situation in prisons
How Rwanda Is Delivering Justice During Lockdown
https://allafrica.com/stories/202004280148.html
South Africa - Covid-19 infections continue to rise behind bars, prisons record 129 cases
Sudan: Helping prison authorities keep COVID-19 at bay
https://reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-helping-prison-authorities-keep-covid-19-bay
Americas
Virus Spreads Fear Through Latin America's Unruly Prisons
El Salvador lines up semi-naked gang members for grim prison photos
US - 'A Ticking Time Bomb': Advocates Warn COVID-19 Is Spreading Rapidly Behind Bars
US - People freed from prison during coronavirus may face big risks on the outside
US - More Than 800 Inmates, Nearly 300 Staffers Positive for COVID-19 in Texas Prisons: TDCJ
US - Michigan prison hot spot says 12th inmate has died of virus
Asia
Nepal - NHRC draws attention toward overcrowded central prison
https://english.khabarhub.com/2020/28/92161/
Philippines - Elderly prisoners qualified for early release identified
Europe
Armenia deputy justice minister on release of prisoners based on grave disease
https://news.am/eng/news/575010.html
Belgian Inmates Make 42,000 Reusable Masks Against COVID-19
https://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2020/04/27/world/europe/ap-eu-virus-outbreak-belgian-inmates.html
England and Wales - Five members of prison staff have been killed by coronavirus as well as 15 prisoners, Justice Secretary confirms
England and Wales - Coronavirus: More than 2,000 prisoners may have been infected, says PHE
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-52449920
England and Wales - Only 33 prisoners in England and Wales released under anti-coronavirus measures
As France releases thousands, can Covid-19 end chronic prison overcrowding?
News 25-27 April
As Coronavirus Strikes Prisons, Hundreds of Thousands Are Released
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/26/world/americas/coronavirus-brazil-prisons.html
Africa
Egypt releases over 4,000 prisoners amid talk it has bowed to pressure over COVID-19 concerns
Malawi army, police clash with defiant prison warders on strike
https://www.nyasatimes.com/malawi-army-police-clash-with-defiant-prison-warders-on-strike/
Morocco Launches Mass Testing for COVID-19 in Prisons
Morocco - DGAPR Suspends Transfer of Detainees to Courts, Inmates to Hospitals
COVID-19: UNODC supports Nigeria prison to check spread among inmates
https://theeagleonline.com.ng/covid-19-unodc-supports-nigeria-prison-to-check-spread-among-inmates/
South Africa - Justice Edwin Cameron calls for release of prisoners due to Covid-19 fears
South Africa - Happy Freedom Day: Thousands Of Prisoners To Be Released Today
https://ewn.co.za/2020/04/27/happy-freedom-day-thousands-of-prisoners-to-be-released-today
Americas
Argentine prison riot over coronavirus ends with promise of talks
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/riot-argentine-prison-virus-case-confirmed-202247913.html
Canada's prison watchdog calls out federal corrections for 'extreme' confinement as COVID-19 cases surge
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/canada-prison-conditions-covid-19-human-rights-1.5545303
El Salvador's jails: Where social distancing is impossible
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-52386404
El Salvador imposes prisons lockdown after 22 murders in a day
US - 17 Ohio prisoners now dead of coronavirus; 4 at Marion Correctional
US - 138 inmates test positive for COVID-19 at Colorado prison
In four U.S. state prisons, nearly 3,300 inmates test positive for coronavirus -- 96% without symptoms
US - Few Federal Prisoners Released Under COVID-19 Emergency Policies
US - Juvenile Justice Centers And Vulnerable Youth Latest Victims Of COVID-19
Asia
Pandemic: Fate Of ASEAN’s Prisoners In The Balance
https://theaseanpost.com/article/pandemic-fate-aseans-prisoners-balance
Bahraini prisoners in an involuntary game of Russian roulette with Covid-19
India - Jail starts ‘e-meetings’ for prisoners, relatives
India - HC seeks report from prison authorities on steps taken to prevent COVID-19 spread in jail
Covid-19 Cases on the Rise in Northwest Iran Prison
https://iran-hrm.com/index.php/2020/04/26/covid-19-cases-on-the-rise-in-northwest-iran-prison/
Philippines - BuCor records two new COVID-19 cases in women's prison
Philippines - OSG: Congestion in prisons not a ground to release inmates
https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/4/25/OSG-congestion-prisons-not-ground-to-release-inmates.html
Syrian opposition warns of ‘catastrophe’ if coronavirus infects detainees after death of prison guards
Europe
Several Italian mafia bosses released from prison over coronavirus fears
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/04/25/europe/mafia-bosses-italy-coronavirus-trnd/index.html
Inside Russia’s Secretive Prisons as Coronavirus Takes Hold
News 24 April
Africa
Cameroon releases about 1,000 prisoners amid COVID-19 pandemic
https://newsghana.com.gh/cameroon-releases-about-1000-prisoners-amid-covid-19-pandemic/
Algerians linked to protests ‘forgotten’ in pre-trial detention
Ghana - Covid-19: Prisons boss pushes for non-custodial sentencing regime to facilitate physical distancing of inmates
Malawi prison warders go on strike demanding money
https://www.myjoyonline.com/news/international/malawi-prison-warders-go-on-strike-demanding-money/
Moroccan prison reports sharp jump in virus cases
https://www.macaubusiness.com/moroccan-prison-reports-sharp-jump-in-virus-cases/
Somalia: Places of detention overlooked during Covid-19 crisis
https://hornobserver.com/articles/313/Somalia-Places-of-detention-overlooked-during-Covid-19-crisis
Americas
Canada - Federal prison tensions rise amid COVID lockdowns; activists want releases
Canada - Ontario government and jail guards' union reach deal allowing officers to wear masks
Colombia denounces lack of measures to prevent infection in prisons
Cuban prisons without Covid-19 cases
https://www.plenglish.com/index.php?o=rn&id=54921&SEO=cuban-prisons-without-covid-19-cases
US - New Jersey announced a coronavirus prison release plan. Two weeks later, not one inmate has been let out.
US - Colorado Corrections Agrees To Release Some Inmates Early To Reduce Prison Populations
US - Ohio Began Mass Testing Incarcerated People for COVID-19. The Results Paint a Bleak Picture for the U.S. Prison System
https://time.com/5825030/ohio-mass-testing-prisons-coronavirus-outbreaks/
US - 2 more Georgia inmates die from COVID-19
https://www.news4jax.com/news/georgia/2020/04/23/2-more-georgia-inmates-die-from-covid-19/
US - Texas Counties Cut Jail Population By 10,000 In March
https://www.keranews.org/post/texas-counties-cut-jail-population-10000-march
US - Correctional Model Predicts 99% COVID-19 Infection Rate In Arizona Prisons
US (Virginia) - Lawmakers approve plan to release 2,000 inmates to stop spread of COVID-19
US - Tennessee’s coronavirus cases surge as prison outbreak grows
https://www.ihoneida.com/2020/04/23/tennessees-coronavirus-cases-surge-as-prison-outbreak-grows/
US - Juvenile Detention Population Plummeted as the Pandemic Spread, Survey Suggests
Asia
India - Coronavirus: Uttar Pradesh creates 34 temporary jails for coronavirus lockdown defaulters
Philippines - Cebu City jail reports 20 more COVID-19 cases
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/regional/2020/4/24/cebu-city-jail-coronavirus-disease.html
Europe
England and Wales - 'Much-loved' prison officer at HMP Usk dies of coronavirus
https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/18400563.much-loved-prison-officer-hmp-usk-dies-coronavirus/
England and Wales - Only 30 of 4,000 prisoners released early as jails step up to combat spread of coronavirus
Ireland - Coronavirus: State’s prison population falls by 248
Ireland - Cork Prison inmates get access to Netflix to compensate for coronavirus measures
Ireland - Inmates with Covid-19 symptoms kept in 24-hour lock-up
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid 19 coronavirus: Ombudsman 'discouraged' from accessing prisons amidst pandemic lockdown concerns
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12327266
News 23 April
Americas
Canada - Test more correctional officers to ease burden in federal prisons, union says
Jamaica - Prison inmates trained as medical orderlies
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/prison-inmates-trained-as-medical-orderlies_192659?profile=1373
Jamaica - Prison visits further suspended — DCS
Mass incarceration could add 100,000 deaths to US coronavirus toll, study finds
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/apr/22/coronavirus-us-jails-incarceration-death-toll-study
US - As COVID-19 cases climb statewide, so do cases inside Florida’s prisons
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/special-reports/florida-prisons/article242212141.html
US - Cases of COVID-19 in Iowa's prison system triples; union leader issues warning
US - Bureau Of Prisons Removes Webpage On COVID-19 FAQ Home Confinement
US (Indiana) - 92% of Westville inmates tested are positive for COVID-19, group says; Lake County officials report three more coronavirus deaths
Us - Ohio Judge Orders Removal Of 'Vulnerable' Inmates From Federal Prison With Second-Highest Coronavirus Death Toll
Asia
India - NCW issues directives for female inmates amid COVID-19 lockdown
Philippines - DOH commits 10,000 COVID-19 test kits for inmates — DOJ exec
Europe
England and Wales - Ministers under renewed pressure to recommence prisoner releases
Coronavirus: Low-risk prisoners in Jersey permitted early release
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-jersey-52380866
First prison officer dies of coronavirus in Scotland
https://news.stv.tv/scotland/first-prison-officer-dies-of-coronavirus-in-scotland
News 22 April
Africa
Fear of coronavirus haunts Egypt's cramped jails
https://af.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idAFKCN2240MN
Moroccan prison becomes coronavirus hotspot
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200421-moroccan-prison-becomes-coronavirus-hotspot/
Nigeria - President Writes CJN on Speedy Trials, Prison Decongestion
South Africa - Concerns mount over plans to protect prisoners from Covid-19
Zimbabwe - Ziyambi Ziyambi Wants To Implement Social Distancing At Highly Overcrowded Zim Prisons
Americas
Brazil - Ministry of Justice wants prisoners with covid symptoms in containers during pandemic
Inside the Canadian Prison Hardest Hit by the Coronavirus Pandemic
Canada - A pandemic in prisons forces a rethink of why so many are behind bars
Canada - Quebec inmates file COVID-19 lawsuit
https://www.wellandtribune.ca/news-story/9958000-quebec-inmates-file-covid-19-lawsuit/
US - Bureau of Prisons Reverses Coronavirus Home Confinement Policy
https://reason.com/2020/04/21/bureau-of-prisons-reverses-coronavirus-home-confinement-policy/
US (Maryland) - Gov. Hogan signs executive order expediting release of hundreds of prisoners
US - 38 percent of Arkansas COVID-19 cases concentrated in state prison
Asia
Bangladesh reports first prison coronavirus case
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/bangladesh-reports-first-prison-coronavirus-case/1813716
Iran Temporarily Releases 1,000 Foreign Prisoners Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
Field Hospital Inside Notorious Lebanese Prison
https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2246451/field-hospital-inside-notorious-lebanese-prison
Philippines - DOJ streamlines process for parole, pardon to ease jail congestion
https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/4/22/DOJ-streamline-parole-pardon-jails.html
Coronavirus outbreak in Philippines jail sees 123 inmates infected
Pandemic Hotbeds in Syria's Prisons
https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2246876/pandemic-hotbeds-syrias-prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Thousands of older prisoners are sharing cells during pandemic
https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/18395296.thousands-older-prisoners-sharing-cells-pandemic/
Jersey prisoners could be released early to manage coronavirus
Penitentiaries in the pandemic: Russian officials say coronavirus hasn’t infected a single inmate, but COVID-19 has undeniably changed life behind bars in big ways
https://meduza.io/en/feature/2020/04/22/penitentiaries-in-the-pandemic
Coronavirus in Scotland: Early release for 'limited number' of prisoners
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-52371785
Turkey - ‘A Mask is Sold for 17 Lira in Prison’
http://bianet.org/english/human-rights/223289-a-mask-is-sold-for-17-lira-in-prison
Oceania
New Zealand - Concerns prisons will turn into Covid-19 ‘quarantine facilities’
News 21 April
Africa
Morocco Announces COVID-19 Cases Among Staff at 2 More Prisons
South Africa: COVID-19 - Prison Inmates Are in Immediate Danger
https://allafrica.com/stories/202004210596.html
South Africa - Two inmates injured during protest at Pretoria prison
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak leads to Ontario jail being closed after 60 inmates, eight staff test positive
Cayman Islands - Prisoners released to ease jail crowding
https://caymannewsservice.com/2020/04/prisoners-released-to-ease-jail-crowding/
Riot leaves one inmate dead and 13 more injured at a Colombian prison where detainees fear new detainees will spark a coronavirus outbreak
US - California reports first prison inmate death caused by coronavirus
US - First COVID-19 Death Reported in an Alabama Prison
https://www.tv24.tv/single-post/2020/04/20/First-COVID-19-Death-Reported-in-an-Alabama-Prison
US - 25 Kids Confirmed to Have Coronavirus at Virginia Juvenile Detention Center
Asia
Asian prisons at bursting point become COVID-19 breeding grounds
Southeast Asia Speeds Up Prison Releases to Stave Off Coronavirus
https://www.voanews.com/covid-19-pandemic/southeast-asia-speeds-prison-releases-stave-coronavirus
Spread of COVID-19 in Japanese prisons spurs calls for releases
Philippines - 18 inmates, one jail worker in Women's Correctional contract COVID-19
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/4/21/Women-s-Correctional-more-COVID-19-infections.html
Philippines - SC orders urgent release of inmates with lapsed jail time, shelved cases
Europe
Almost 300 prisoners have tested positive for coronavirus in prisons in England and Wales - 13 have died
https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/uk-news/almost-300-prisoners-tested-postive-18121731
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Buckland on deaths in prisons [video]
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-politics-52356846/coronavirus-buckland-on-deaths-in-prisons#
England and Wales - Second prisoner dies with coronavirus in Liverpool jail
Coronavirus in Ireland: Prison officers want all new inmates tested
Luxembourg - Inmate tests positive for coronavirus in first prison case
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1504984.html
11 inmates at Scots prisons test positive for coronavirus with 85 self-isolating
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/11-inmates-scots-prisons-test-21897458
Terrified’ Prisoners In Spain’s Mallorca Demand To Be Set Free After ‘Degrading’ Response To Covid-19 That ‘Violates Their Human Rights’
News 18 – 20 April
Africa
Kenya - Covid-19: 4,500 prisoners released in decongestion bid
https://www.nation.co.ke/news/1056-5527288-st21gn/index.html
South Africa - SA prisons scramble to isolate Covid-19 cases as infections spread
South Africa - Prisoners threaten hunger strike if Covid-19 fears are not addressed
Sub-Saharan Africa: Protect detainees at risk of COVID-19, unclog prisons and release prisoners of conscience
Americas
Barbados - HMP Dodds following health protocols during COVID-19
https://www.loopnewsbarbados.com/content/hmp-dodds-following-health-protocols-during-covid-19
Brazil – Without Visitors or Access to Attorneys, Prisoners Fear Coronavirus; First Fatality in Rio Jail
Coronavirus confirmed in one of Colombia’s largest prison
https://colombiareports.com/coronavirus-confirmed-in-one-of-colombias-largest-prison/
US - Federal prisons confirm first staff death linked to coronavirus
US (Arkansas) - Prison virus outbreak is massive; governor considering early releases to create prison space
US - Coronavirus cases rising at Chicago’s federal high-rise jail
US - More than 1,800 inmates, 100 staff test positive for coronavirus at Ohio prison
https://nypost.com/2020/04/20/more-than-1800-inmates-test-positive-for-coronavirus-at-ohio-prison/
Asia
Bangladesh to release selective prisoners in late April
Cambodia - Prison authorities to learn disinfection methods
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50714777/prison-authorities-to-learn-disinfection-methods/
India - Violent protests by Jalpaiguri jail inmates demanding that they be released on bail due to coronavirus outbreak
Iran Extends Prisoner Furloughs amid COVID Threat
https://www.voanews.com/middle-east/voa-news-iran/iran-extends-prisoner-furloughs-amid-covid-threat
Prisoners in Japan produce masks and protective gear amid virus crisis
Malaysia - Prison academies risk becoming new Covid-19 clusters, warns rights group
Coronavirus: Philippines acts to avert public health crisis in jails
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippines-acts-to-avert-public-health-crisis-in-jails
Singapore - Crime-fighting during COVID-19: Precautions taken in prisons, police stations and courts
Thailand - Time to let non-violent drug offenders out of jail
Europe
Cyprus - Coronavirus: Nicosia prisons lays out measures taken since March 10
England and Wales - UK coronavirus prison plan on hold after six inmates freed in error
No COVID-19 infection cases found in Latvian prisons so far
https://bnn-news.com/no-covid-19-infection-cases-found-in-latvian-prisons-so-far-212488
Scottish inmates to be allowed mobile phones in prison
https://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/scottish-inmates-be-allowed-mobile-phones-prison-2542375
News 17 April
Africa
Cameroonian President Orders De-Crowding of Prisons to Combat COVID-19
https://www.voanews.com/africa/cameroonian-president-orders-de-crowding-prisons-combat-covid-19
DR Congo: Prisons Face Covid-19 Catastrophe
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/04/17/dr-congo-prisons-face-covid-19-catastrophe
Ivory Coast races to protect jails from coronavirus
https://www.modernghana.com/news/995888/ivory-coast-races-to-protect-jails-from-coronaviru.html
South Africa - Prison officials fear for their families' lives amid Covid-19 outbreak
Americas
Bahamas - “It’s gonna wipe us out”: Prisoners relay COVID-19 fears
https://ewnews.com/its-gonna-wipe-us-out-prisoners-relay-covid-19-fears
Bermuda - Virus arrests stretch prisons
http://www.royalgazette.com/news/article/20200417/virus-arrests-stretch-prisons
Canada - Coronavirus: First federal inmate death reported at B.C. prison as case count climbs
https://globalnews.ca/news/6827710/bc-canada-prison-coronavirus-death/
Mexico - AMLO urges passage of amnesty law to reduce contagion in prisons
US - Why families of dying prisoners are unable to say last goodbyes
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/apr/16/coronavirus-us-prisons-families-funerals-goodbyes
Over 16K US inmates have been released as coronavirus crisis has progressed
https://www.foxnews.com/us/here-is-how-many-prisoners-have-been-released-covid-19
U.S. Correctional Facilities Report Steep Rise In Coronavirus Infection Rate
'It's horrible': how the US deep south's prisons exacerbate the pandemic
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/apr/17/us-prisons-coronavirus-deep-south
US - Fears of prison rioting escalate as coronavirus causes staff shortages
Asia
Myanmar to free almost 25,000 prisoners in largest amnesty in years
Virus outbreak at Philippine jail fuels calls for prisoner releases
Thailand - Paroled inmates 'have health checks'
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1901375/paroled-inmates-have-health-checks
Europe
England and Wales - More than HALF of UK prisons are now infected with coronavirus after 232 inmates and 103 staff test positive for Covid-19
England and Wales - Campaigners threaten legal action unless prisoners are released during pandemic
Ireland - Calls to cut prison numbers more to protect from Covid-19
Jail deaths bring renewed attention to Romanian prison conditions
https://londonlovesbusiness.com/jail-deaths-bring-renewed-attention-to-romanian-prison-conditions/
Coronavirus in Scotland: Home curfew extended to gangsters to help jails
News 16 April
Africa
Distribution de kits sanitaires dans les prisons de Côte d'Ivoire
https://www.bbc.com/afrique/region-52305077#
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 spurs prison reform from provinces but federal government slow to act
Canada - B.C. prison outbreak worsens, 48 now infected with COVID-19
https://globalnews.ca/news/6824504/mission-institution-outbreak-covid-19/
Colombia orders mass release of inmates after coronavirus deaths trigger prison protests
Guyana - Prison service introduces video calls for inmates
Panama - Sixth prisoner found with coronavirus in Colon jail
https://menafn.com/1100031383/Sixth-prisoner-found-with-coronavirus-in-Colon-jail
U.S. Justice Department watchdog to inspect federal prisons' handling of coronavirus
US - 2 inmates at Florida prison die of COVID-19
https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2020/04/15/2-inmates-at-florida-prison-die-of-covid-19/
US (Connecticut) - Coronavirus cases triple in prisons, prompting new outrage
Asia
India - This is the time to ensure systemic legal reform
India - 1,112 prisoners released on bail, parole from Karnataka prisons due to COVID-19
Iran - Water shut down on Central Prison of Zahedan despite the pandemic
Nepal - SC seeks govt explanation over its delay to release detainees involved in petty crimes
Philippines - Prison facilities Covid-free – BuCor
https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/04/16/news/national/prison-facilities-covid-free-bucor/714472/
Europe
England and Wales - Total of 218 inmates and 82 staff have tested positive for coronavirus in 57 jails with ten prisoners dead, latest figures show
Iceland - Drug Use in Prisons Less than Ever
https://icelandmonitor.mbl.is/news/news/2020/04/15/drug_use_in_prisons_less_than_ever/
Ireland - Practice at Cork Prison of putting new prisoners in isolation 'bordering on unconstitutional' – judge
Turkey releases 1st batch of prisoners amid coronavirus
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/turkey/turkey-releases-1st-batch-of-prisoners-amid-coronavirus/1805879#
Oceania
New Zealand - Recommendations to push back release of virus-risk prisoners condemned
News 15 April
Africa
Liberia - ‘Give Inmates Special Attention During COVID-19’ – CSOs Demand
Local Jail Reports 5 COVID-19 Infections, First Cases in a Moroccan Prison
South Africa - Police officers, prison officials and inmates in isolation as Covid-19 hits correctional services
South Africa - Call for inmates to be released after Covid-19 outbreak in Eastern Cape prisons
Americas
US - Federal prisons make inmate calling, video visits free during pandemic
https://www.politico.com/news/2020/04/14/federal-prisons-make-inmate-calling-free-186383
US - Coronavirus Seen as Factor Spurring Compassionate Release From Prison
US - Coronavirus: Outbreaks ignite at two California prisons; inmates feel like ‘sitting ducks’
Asia
Philippines - BuCor processing release papers of eligible, vulnerable prisoners amid quarantine -officia
Thailand - Over 8,000 prison terms suspended
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1899825/over-8-000-prison-terms-suspended
Europe
Albania - Parliamentary law committee rejects gov’t proposal on harsh prison sentences for violators of quarantine
https://www.tiranatimes.com/?p=145395
England and Wales - 2,000 extra temporary prison cells to be built to avert early release of more offenders into the community
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Fewer criminals to face prison due to outbreak
France - Coronavirus. Dans les prisons françaises, près de 10 000 détenus de moins en un mois
Ireland - Prisoner loses action over being put into isolation due to Covid-19 fears in prison
Montenegro Warned about Poor Conditions in Remand Prisons
https://balkaninsight.com/2020/04/14/montenegro-warned-about-poor-conditions-in-remand-prisons/
Virtual prison visits rolled out in Northern Ireland
https://www.irishlegal.com/article/virtual-prison-visits-rolled-out-in-northern-ireland
Coronavirus: Activists call for amnesty amid signs Covid-19 is beginning to hit Russian jails
Scotland - Government publishes prison rule changes during Covid-19 pandemic
Coronavirus in Scotland: Prisoners face 28-day lockdown in jail cells
Oceania
Australia - Coronavirus lockdown measures lead to more disturbances in NSW prisons
News 10 – 14 April
Africa
Nigeria - COVID -19: Ekiti, Kwara to release prison inmates
https://www.thenewsnigeria.com.ng/2020/04/13/covid-19-ekiti-kwara-to-release-prison-inmates/
South Africa - Correctional Services says committed to safe Covid-19 practices in prisons
Americas
Canada - More than 2,000 inmates released, 6 COVID-19 cases confirmed inside Ontario jails
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-jails-coronavirus-1.5527677
Outcry as Chile seeks to include Pinochet human rights abusers in jail release
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/13/chile-coronavirus-pinochet-dictatorship-prisons
Inmates set mattresses on fire and hurl objects at guards and cops as they're hit with rubber bullets during riot at notorious Dominican Republic prison where fury mounts after four people die of coronavirus
US - Virus-wracked federal prisons again expand release criteria
https://www.politico.com/news/2020/04/11/federal-prison-release-criteria-coronavirus-179835
US - Inmates At Kansas Prison Take Over Cell Block, Destroy Property In Disturbance Over COVID-19 Frustrations
US - Nearly 200 inmates rioted after officials announced coronavirus cases in a Washington state facility
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/04/09/us/washington-monroe-prison-riot/index.html
US (North Carolina) - NC considering early release of 500 inmates based on certain criteria amid coronavirus
US - Racing against a coronavirus clock, Philly courts release 200+ jail inmates in the first week of fast-track emergency hearings
US (California) - State Sets Bail to Zero for Misdemeanors and Some Felonies
https://sacobserver.com/2020/04/state-sets-bail-to-zero-for-misdemeanors-and-some-felonies/
Asia
1,800 inmates freed from jail in Bahrain
https://www.zawya.com/mena/en/legal/story/1800_inmates_freed_from_jail_in_Bahrain-SNG_172237862/
Bangladesh - Coronavirus: Release of prisoners delayed by general holiday
Coronavirus measures trigger prison riot in Indonesia
https://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/coronavirus-measures-trigger-prison-riot-indonesia-70103343
Iran - More prisoners die of COVID19, prisons lack coronavirus protections
Pakistan - Govt says measures tightened to prevent coronavirus in prisons
Philippines - House Justice Committee recommends temporary release on bail of ‘vulnerable’ prisoners
Europe
England and Wales - 100 prisoners to be dispersed from jail after coronavirus outbreak linked to death of a member of staff
England and Wales - Prison estate expanded to protect NHS from coronavirus risk
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/prison-estate-expanded-to-protect-nhs-from-coronavirus-risk
Netherlands - Pepper Spray Used To End Covid-19 Related Protest In Lelystad Prison: Report
https://nltimes.nl/2020/04/13/pepper-spray-used-end-covid-19-related-protest-lelystad-prison-report
Russian Jail on Coronavirus Lockdown After Inspector’s Death – Reports
First inmate at Scottish prison dies from Covid-19
https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/crime/first-inmate-scottish-prison-dies-covid-19-2535551
Coronavirus Scotland: Second Scots prisoner dies of suspected Covid-19 as ’30 inmates self-isolate’
Turkish Parliament agrees to free thousands from prison as anti-coronavirus safety measure
Three Turkish prisoners die of coronavirus
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1658131/world
Oceania
Coronavirus Australia: Queensland prisons taking drastic measures to prevent COVID-19 outbreaks
News 9 April
Africa
Ghana - Coronavirus: Sekondi Central Prison appeals for fumigation materials
Malawi - Concerns over coronavirus at overcrowded at Zomba prison
https://malawi24.com/2020/04/09/concerns-over-coronavirus-at-overcrowded-at-zomba-prison/
Nigeria - COVID-19: Buhari flags off release of qualified prison inmates
https://dailypost.ng/2020/04/09/covid-19-buhari-flags-off-release-of-qualified-prison-inmates/
South Africa - EC prison to undergo mass testing after official tests positive
https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/prison-mass-testing-eastern-cape-lockdown-health-virus-2020/
Uganda: COVID-19 - Prisons Identify 2,000 Inmates for Release
https://allafrica.com/stories/202004080307.html
Americas
Canada - Judges release growing number accused of violent crimes due to COVID-19 fears
https://globalnews.ca/news/6788223/coronavirus-prisons-inmates-released/
Canada - 11 inmates at federal prison in B.C. test positive for COVID-19
https://bc.ctvnews.ca/11-inmates-at-federal-prison-in-b-c-test-positive-for-covid-19-1.4888632
US - Coronavirus cases in California prisons multiplied in days and inmates fear further spread
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/04/09/us/california-prisons-coronavirus/index.html
US (N. Carolina) - Coronavirus outbreak hits Eastern NC prison. 15 state inmates now infected.
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/coronavirus/article241859326.html
US (Texas) - First state prison inmate dies of COVID-19, lockdown expands
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/article241866291.html
US - Colorado reaches 193 coronavirus deaths; first prison inmate tests positive
https://the-journal.com/articles/173240
US - 401 people infected with COVID-19 in Chicago prison
US - Michigan Prisons Are One Of The Fastest Growing COVID-19 Hot Spots
https://therealnews.com/stories/michigan-prisons-coronavirus-hot-spot-solitary-confinement-isolation
US (New Jersey) - COVID-19 Spreads Among NJ Jail, Prison Staff and Inmates
https://wpgtalkradio.com/covid-19-spreads-among-nj-jail-prison-staff-and-inmates/
US (Virginia) - Inmates sue state over conditions in prisons during pandemic
US - The Emergency in Florida Jails
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/04/the-emergency-in-florida-jails/609670/
US - As Coronavirus Spreads Among Juvenile Justice Facilities, Activists Are Calling For Their Release
http://www.mtv.com/news/3162492/coronavirus-juvenile-justice-facilities/
US (Illinois) - Medically Vulnerable to be Furloughed From Prison
http://altondailynews.com/news/details.cfm?clientid=17&id=301938#.Xo7_echKjIU
Asia
In overcrowded cells, Bahrain's political prisoners fear coronavirus threat
Cambodia - Prisoners Won’t Be Released Amid Outbreak Fears, Justice Ministry Says
India - Panel dissatisfied with delay in prison decongestion
India - Covid-19: Chhattisgarh releases 1,478 prisoners after SC order
Amid coronavirus scare, Myanmar court releases scores of detained Rohingya Muslims
Coronavirus: Dozens of Prisoners Test Positive in Pakistan
https://communalnews.com/coronavirus-dozens-of-prisoners-test-positive-in-pakistan/
Philippines - SC urged to release sick, elderly political prisoners amid COVID-19
Philippines - BJMP builds coronavirus isolation facility
https://www.rappler.com/nation/257473-bjmp-builds-coronavirus-isolation-facility
Europe
England and Wales - Care homes and prisons are next to receive coronavirus test kits
England and Wales - Prison fears as death toll rises
https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/18367504.prison-fears-death-toll-rises/
Estonia - Justice chancellor hits out at prisons coronavirus fresh air breaks ban
https://news.err.ee/1074819/justice-chancellor-hits-out-at-prisons-coronavirus-fresh-air-breaks-ban
Greece - Riot in women’s prison in Thiva after detainee dies
Greece and COVID-19, in prisons isolation is not enough
Portugal - Plan to free up to 2700 prisoners trashed by Opposition
https://www.portugalresident.com/plan-to-free-up-to-2700-prisoners-trashed-by-opposition/
Scotland - Former justice secretary calls for prisoner releases to fight virus
Scotland - New rules could ‘prevent prisoners from keeping themselves clean’
Scots prison officers given emergency pay fund to cover staffing crisis during coronavirus pandemic
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scots-prison-officers-given-emergency-21835230
News 8 April
England and Wales - Ten prisoners have died after contracting coronavirus
https://metro.co.uk/2020/04/07/ten-prisoners-died-contracting-coronavirus-12523406/
England and Wales - 15,000 prisoners need to be curb spread of coronavirus, officials told ministers
England and Wales - Discharged UK prisoners with Covid-19 symptoms given travel warrants
England and Wales - First six pregnant prisoners freed after coronavirus rule change, Robert Buckland tells MPs
New Zealand - Covid 19 coronavirus: NZ prisoners kept in solitary during outbreak, says prison reform group
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12323375
Lebanon prisons hit by unrest amid coronavirus fears
Overcrowded prison populations worry about impending ‘disaster’
Haiti's crowded prisons a coronavirus catastrophe waiting to happen
Coronavirus: Saudi Arabia suspends prison sentences for debtors
Indonesia - Activists, experts caution against slapdash reform to tackle prison overcrowding
US - Coronavirus has led to thousands of early releases from prisons and jails. Not in Arizona
https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2020-04-07/coronavirus-prisons-arizona-covid19
US - 'They're All Really Afraid': Coronavirus Spreads In Federal Prisons
Australia – COVID-19 prison changes include isolation of new inmates, temperature checks
Europe’s Prisons Reel Under Virus Assault; A Warning to U.S.?
https://thecrimereport.org/2020/04/07/europes-prisons-reel-under-virus-assault-a-warning-to-u-s/
DR Congo frees 1,200 inmates amid coronavirus outbreak
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/dr-congo-frees-1-200-inmates-amid-coronavirus-outbreak/1796522
Release or isolate: The debate on how to help people inside Canada’s prisons and jails during COVID-19
Covid-19: More than sixty prisoners released from prison in La Réunion
Pakistan - District jail declines to accept new prisoners
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2193046/1-district-jail-declines-accept-new-prisoners/
Nepal’s prisons need to be depopulated
https://www.nepalitimes.com/here-now/nepals-prisons-need-to-be-depopulated/
India - Coronavirus: Over 2000 prisoners granted bail in Karnataka, some choose to remain in jail
https://indianexpress.com/article/coronavirus/coronavirus-karnataka-jail-prison-bail-6353188/
Ukraine's justice minister names possible ways of infection with COVID-19 among prisoners
Coronavirus Could Worsen Grave Health Crisis in Venezuela Prisons
https://www.insightcrime.org/news/brief/coronavirus-health-prisons-venezuela/
Malta - Corradino prison staff start week-long shifts to reduce COVID-19 risks
Canada - Ontario Is Releasing Nearly 2,000 Inmates To Prevent The Spread Of COVID-19
News 7 April
England and Wales - Two more prisoners die after testing positive for coronavirus
https://metro.co.uk/2020/04/06/two-prisoners-die-testing-positive-coronavirus-12518417/
Asia: Reduce Prison Populations Facing COVID-19
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/04/06/asia-reduce-prison-populations-facing-covid-19
Coronavirus spreads across Belgium’s prisons
Report Into Coronavirus in Iran Prisons
https://www.iranfocus.com/en/human-rights/34404-report-into-coronavirus-in-iran-prisons
Prevention plan to protect prison population in Cuba
Uganda - COVID-19 CRISIS: Prisons Management recommend release of 2000 prisoners
Dominica - COVID-19: Visits at state prison suspended indefinitely
Australia - Policy backflip in lead-up to Queensland election puts youth in detention centres at risk of coronavirus
Syria slow to free prisoners despite coronavirus risk in crowded jails - rights groups
Unclog the jails: Covid-19 lends urgency to ending overcrowding of India’s prisons by undertrials
Guyana - Early release among measures being taken to safeguard prisons from coronavirus
Almost 50 inmates contract coronavirus in Pakistan prison
News 4 – 6 April
England and Wales - Two workers at London's Pentonville prison die from Covid-19
England and Wales - Measures announced to protect NHS from coronavirus risk in prisons
Up to 4,000 prisoners in England and Wales to be temporarily released from jail to control coronavirus
Estonia - Prison guards to switch to five-day schedules during emergency situation
https://news.err.ee/1072808/prison-guards-to-switch-to-five-day-schedules-during-emergency-situation
US - Barr expands early release for inmates at prisons hard hit by coronavirus
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/04/04/politics/barr-early-release-inmates-prisons/index.html
US - Judges reject sweeping California inmate release
https://www.marinij.com/2020/04/05/judges-deny-california-inmate-release-request-cite-us-law/
Cambodia: Prisons Potential COVID-19 Epicenters
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/04/05/cambodia-prisons-potential-covid-19-epicenters
Virus prompts Sri Lanka prison release
Iran: Situation in Prisons Becomes Increasingly Tense
https://irannewsupdate.com/news/insider/6976-iran-news-coronavirus-prison-20200403.html
Overcrowding and the risk of unmitigated spread of COVID-19 in Madagascar's prisons
Singapore - Parliament: Prisons to suspend all family visits from April 7 to May 4 amid Covid-19 outbreak
Turkey - Riot erupts in southeast penitentiary, after parliamentary committee approves prisoner release bill
New Zealand - Covid 19 coronavirus: Prisoners in cells up to 23 hours a day
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12322673
Bangladesh - Efforts underway to prevent Covid-19 spread in prisons: Red Cross
https://www.thedailystar.net/efforts-underway-prevent-covid-19-spread-in-prisons-1889860
COVID-19 pandemic: urgent steps are needed to protect the rights of prisoners in Europe
Malaysia - Consider danger of Covid-19 spreading in prisons, says CJ
https://themalaysianreserve.com/2020/04/06/consider-danger-of-covid-19-spreading-in-prisons-says-cj/
At least 200,000 prisoners to be released worldwide due to Coronavirus outbreak
Calls grow to release Myanmar prisoners to tackle Covid-19
https://www.ucanews.com/news/calls-grow-to-release-myanmar-prisoners-to-tackle-covid-19/87641
Northern Ireland - Justice minister Naomi Long says she will consider further prisoner releases due to Covid-19
Morocco to free over 5,000 prisoners over virus fears
https://middle-east-online.com/en/morocco-free-over-5000-prisoners-over-virus-fears
“No Prison in Colombia Can Deal with Coronavirus, if They Leave Us Here We are Facing the Death Penalty”
https://www.newsclick.in/Colombia-Prisons-Coronavirus-COVID-19-Outbreak
Trinidad & Tobago - State takes first step to early prison release
https://newsday.co.tt/2020/04/06/state-takes-first-step-to-early-prison-release/
Guyana - GHRA calls for hundreds of prisoners to be released
http://demerarawaves.com/2020/04/05/ghra-calls-for-hundreds-of-prisoners-to-be-released/
Kenya – Government suspends prison visits by another 30 days
https://www.the-star.co.ke/covid-19/2020-04-05-government-suspends-prison-visits-by-another-30-days/
Canada - Old people in prisons are facing a COVID-19 “death sentence”
https://www.halifaxexaminer.ca/featured/old-people-in-prisons-are-facing-a-covid-19-death-sentence/
REPORT: Nigerian inmates live in danger amid Coronavirus pandemic
https://www.icirnigeria.org/report-nigerian-inmates-live-in-danger-amid-coronavirus-pandemic/
Pakistan - Safety of mentally ill prisoners during pandemic outbreak should be ensured
News 3 April
US - Death toll from COVID-19 at Oakdale prison in Louisiana continues to climb
Australia - Coronavirus restrictions spark unrest in prisons as cell fires confirmed in NSW
Northern Ireland - Almost 200 prison staff off in NI due to Covid-19
https://www.countypress.co.uk/news/national/18354448.almost-200-prison-staff-off-ni-due-covid-19/
Indonesia - Dozens released from Wamena prison in Papua
https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/413395/dozens-released-from-wamena-prison-in-papua
US - Nearly 1,000 Kentucky prison sentences to be commuted, Beshear says
https://www.wave3.com/2020/04/02/nearly-kentucky-prison-sentences-be-commuted-beshear-says/
Kenya Has Freed Nearly 5000 Inmates Via Skype Court Sessions
https://nbcpalmsprings.com/2020/04/02/kenya-has-freed-nearly-5000-inmates-via-skype-court-sessions/
UK's leading prison charities warn of unprecedented deaths in jails if low-risk inmates are not released early
England and Wales - Prison officers 'forgotten service' of coronavirus
England and Wales - Fears Leeds prison is on brink of 'boiling point' as inmates locked up for 23 hours a day
https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/leeds-news/fears-leeds-prison-brink-boiling-18031126
England and Wales - HMP Peterborough defends single cells being used by two inmates after concerns of coronavirus raised
Malaysia - New prison inmates to be quarantined first
https://www.thesundaily.my/local/new-prison-inmates-to-be-quarantined-first-LI2208049
Egypt sanitizes prisons to curb spread of coronavirus
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1652321/middle-east
Burkina Faso frees prisoners to stem virus spread
Libya does the right thing: it releases prisoners in pretrial detention amid Covid-19
Russia’s Penitentiary Authority seals off pretrial detention facilities
http://rapsinews.com/news/20200331/305650974.html
Trinidad: 388 low-risk prisoners targeted for release
UN expert urges Eritrea to reduce risk of COVID-19 spreading by releasing prisoners
Ill-prepared for Covid-19, Mexico City prisons continue to allow visitors
Turkey: COVID-19 Puts Sick Prisoners at Grave Risk
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/04/03/turkey-covid-19-puts-sick-prisoners-grave-risk
France - Coronavirus. Prison : 6 266 détenus libérés en quinze jours
News 2 April
Inmates at Scottish jails not following social distancing, warn prison officers
Coronavirus: Almost a quarter of Scottish prison staff absent from work
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-52133835
Authorities In Chile Must Guarantee The Health Of The Prison Population Against Covid-19
Australia - Coronavirus causing anxiety in Vic prisons
Trinidad & Tobago - COVID 19: Gov't looks at reducing prison population
http://www.looptt.com/content/covid-19-govt-looks-reducing-prison-population
Rwanda: COVID-19 - Prisons Service Reassures on Inmates' Safety
https://allafrica.com/stories/202004010634.html
Canada - Consider Releasing Some Inmates Early Due To COVID-19, Bill Blair Asks Federal Officials
https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/entry/inmates-release-covid-19-bill-blair_ca_5e8484b8c5b6a1bb7650afbc
Third British prisoner with coronavirus dies after contracting Covid-19 in custody
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/coronavirus-prison-third-dies-hmp-littlehey-a4404671.html
US - Federal prisons are fighting coronavirus with home release and a quarantine, but that may not be enough
US - Rikers Island Prisoners Are Being Offered Ppe And $6 An Hour To Dig Mass Graves
https://theintercept.com/2020/03/31/rikers-island-coronavirus-mass-graves/
Coronavirus Restrictions Stoke Tensions in Lock-ups Across U.S.
Bangladesh - Jail authorities recommend release of 4,450 inmates
https://www.newagebd.net/article/103618/jail-authorities-recommend-release-of-4450-inmates
Canada - Guards at Ottawa jail refuse to work over lack of COVID-19 screening protocols
https://globalnews.ca/news/6761103/guards-ottawa-jail-refuse-work-covid-19-screening/
Portugal - Judges call on government to release 1400 prisoners
https://www.portugalresident.com/judges-call-on-government-to-release-1400-prisoners/
Liberia: RAL Wants Protection for Detainees
https://allafrica.com/stories/202004020387.html
Guyane : mutinerie dans une prison
https://www.francetvinfo.fr/sante/maladie/coronavirus/guyane-mutinerie-dans-une-prison_3896229.html
Égypte : le Covid-19 atteint les prisons
https://www.lepoint.fr/afrique/egypte-le-covid-19-atteint-les-prisons-02-04-2020-2369859_3826.php#
News 1 April
Prison riots break out around the world as coronavirus spreads
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/04/01/prison-riots-break-around-world-coronavirus-spreads/
US - Coronavirus: California to release 3,500 non-violent prison inmates
Scottish criminals to be released early if prisons overwhelmed with coronavirus
England and Wales - 70 pregnant women and mothers to be released from prison early to combat coronavirus crisis
Coronavirus: Tunisia releases 1,420 inmates to reduce prison population
Ireland - Prisons introduce temperature screening at entrances to stop Covid-19 spread
Prisoners Killed In Major Disturbances At Two Prisons In Iran
US - Federal prisons will confine inmates to cells for 2 weeks due to coronavirus
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/03/31/politics/prisons-lockdown-coronavirus/index.html
Jamaica - Prison COVID Worries - Opposition Senator Calls For Release Of Low-Risk Detainees
Coronavirus prompts calls to free inmates from overcrowded Belgian prisons
Tensions Grow in Latin America’s Prisons as COVID-19 Spreads
Nigeria - Coronavirus: Two injured as riot rocks Kaduna prison
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons Service temporarily suspends visits amid COVID-19 concerns
http://www.looptt.com/content/prisons-service-temporarily-suspends-visits-amid-covid-19-concerns
Luxembourg - 30 inmates embark on hunger strike following protests
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1493481.html
COVID-19: Indonesia releases more than 5,500 inmates, plans to free 50,000
'The whole system is broken': Lebanon’s prison riots stretch deeper than coronavirus fears
Bangladesh - 40 prisoners quarantined, 6 isolation units at jails
https://www.thedailystar.net/city/news/40-prisoners-quarantined-6-isolation-units-jails-1888378
News 31 March
Northern Ireland - Coronavirus: Prisoners to be temporarily freed in response to pandemic
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-52090399
Coronavirus: Total of 55 prisoners test positive for COVID-19 in England and Wales
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Pregnant prisoners 'set to be released early' over fears of Covid-19 spreading through jails
UK prisoners with flu symptoms forced to share cells with those with Covid-19
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/mar/31/uk-prisoners-covid-19-symptoms-forced-share-cells
We need to decongest Africa’s prisons urgently. For everyone’s sake.
https://africanarguments.org/2020/03/30/decongest-africa-covid-19-prisons-urgently/
Turkey - Prison staff to be isolated after shifts
https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/prison-staff-to-be-isolated-after-shifts-153413
Russia: Authorities urged to protect half a million prison population in face of COVID-19
Spain – Region’s prisons ready to explode
https://www.euroweeklynews.com/2020/03/30/regions-prisons-ready-to-explode/
Cyprus - Coronavirus: Cabinet to approve measures to mitigate prison overcrowding
Irish Prison Service contacts retired staff in a bid to get them temporarily back to work
https://www.thejournal.ie/irish-prison-service-staff-retired-coronavirus-5062182-Mar2020/
COVID-19 Threatens Indonesia’s Overcrowded Prisons
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/03/30/covid-19-threatens-indonesias-overcrowded-prisons
Indonesia to release 30,000 prisoners early amid coronavirus concerns
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1650401/world
Singapore's prisons remain Covid-free due to precautionary measures
Human Rights Watch warns of Coronavirus outbreak in Libyan prisons
https://www.libyanexpress.com/human-rights-watch-warns-of-coronavirus-outbreak-in-libyan-prisons/
Colombian government is set to release almost 11,000 prisoners and place them under house arrest in bid to control spread of coronavirus one week after riot left 23 inmates dead
Coronavirus: Congested prisons across India to release prisoners on parole
In Canada’s courts, accused criminals are asking for release due to COVID-19
https://globalnews.ca/news/6746173/coronavirus-covid-19-criminals-asking-for-release/
Australia - Plan to quarantine prisoners infected with coronavirus in private hospitals
COVID-19: Pakistan's top court halts prisoner release
Violent protest in Sudan prison
https://www.dabangasudan.org/en/all-news/article/violent-protest-in-sudan-prison
Release inmates in Yemen to avert nationwide coronavirus outbreak, experts urge
News 28 – 30 March
England and Wales - 27 inmates test positive for Covid-19 in 14 different prisons
Scotland - Fires started and wardens injured during ‘Coronavirus prison riot’, but prison service plays down the damage
https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/fires-started-wardens-injured-during-17994244
Thailand - Virus rumour sparks riot, prison break
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1888885/virus-rumour-sparks-riot-prison-break
Spread of coronavirus accelerates in U.S. jails and prisons
US - An explosion of coronavirus cases cripples a federal prison in Louisiana
US - Federal prisons mark first virus death
https://www.politico.com/news/2020/03/29/federal-prison-first-coronavirus-death-153387
If US prisons don't release some inmates, coronavirus will be a death sentence for the incarcerated
https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/us-prisons-coronavirus-prisoners-release-death-a9431546.html
Cameroon Should Protect Prison Population from COVID-19
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/03/27/cameroon-should-protect-prison-population-covid-19
Inmates riot at Iran prison over coronavirus fears
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/inmates-riot-at-iran-prison-over-coronavirus-fears/1784696
Iran extends prison furloughs as coronavirus death toll rises
In Italy’s overcrowded prisons, fear of coronavirus
https://www.politico.eu/article/in-italys-overcrowded-prisons-fear-of-coronavirus/
Malaysia - Suspension of prison visitations continues
https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/579528/suspension-prison-visitations-continues
Lebanese Judicial Measures to Ease Pressure on Overcrowded Prisons
Canada - Trudeau ‘very concerned’ that COVID-19 could spread in federal prisons
UAE - Abu Dhabi Police launch distance prison visits
https://gulfnews.com/uae/crime/abu-dhabi-police-launch-distance-prison-visits-1.70691195
Jamaica - Prisons Beef Up COVID-19 Security - Correctional Services Say No Need For Inmates And Relatives To Worry
India - Maharashtra to release 11,000 undertrials on bail over COVID fears
https://frontline.thehindu.com/dispatches/article31183492.ece
India - 5,000 prisoners likely to released from UP jails
India - New jail inmates to be in separate barracks for 10 days
Pakistan - Move to release 4,000 convicts from Sindh prisons to stop spread of Covid-19
https://www.dawn.com/news/1544810
Bangladesh - Steps taken to prevent virus spread in jails: Addl IG
https://en.prothomalo.com/bangladesh/steps-taken-to-prevent-virus-spread-in-jails
The Coronavirus Is Prompting Middle East Regimes to Release Prisoners. But Journalists and Activists Remain Behind Bars
https://time.com/5811237/coronavirus-middle-east-prisoners-released/
Sri Lanka’s overcrowded jails tense over COVID 19
https://economynext.com/sri-lankas-overcrowded-jails-tense-over-covid-19-62500/
Cyprus - Coronavirus: around 50 prisoners to be released – reports
https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/03/27/coronavirus-around-50-prisoners-to-be-released-reports/
Coronavirus: Buhari approves decongestion of Nigeria Prisons, those to be freed revealed
Myanmar limits inmates’ visitors
https://www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-limits-inmates-visitors.html
News 27 March
Covid-19: UK prisoners with health issues 'face death sentences'
England and Wales - Coronavirus outbreak 'causing chaos' in Merseyside prisons
Afghanistan to release nearly 10,000 prisoners to curb coronavirus spread
Justice Ministry: 200 prisoners released early in Azerbaijan
https://menafn.com/1099921561/Justice-Ministry-200-prisoners-released-early-in-Azerbaijan
Israel to release hundreds of prisoners to curb spread of coronavirus
Greece - Plan for early release of inmates to curb virus risk
US - Photos Show Some Prison Beds Are Only Three Feet Apart
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2020/03/27/photos-show-some-prison-beds-are-only-three-feet-apart
US - Coronavirus: New York prison infections surging as mayor moves to release more inmates
US - Colorado places a moratorium on new prison intakes during pandemic
https://www.coloradoindependent.com/2020/03/26/colorado-moratorium-prisons-inmates-covid-19-cspii/
US (California) Gov. Gavin Newsom halts state prison intake for 30 days
Coronavirus Fatalities on the Rise in Iran’s Prisons
https://iran-hrm.com/index.php/2020/03/26/coronavirus-fatalities-on-the-rise-in-irans-prisons/
Iran - Riot in Tabriz Prison: Guards Open Fire, Wound Prisoners
Ghana - COVID-19 Infections In Our Prisons: Release More Petty Offenders, The Sick, The Aged And Others
https://www.modernghana.com/news/991913/covid-19-infections-in-our-prisons-release-more.html
Malta - PN suggests temporary prisons to ease overcrowding and virus risk at Corradino
Coronavirus: Inmates in France hit out over prison hygiene amid COVID-19 fears
Liberia: ‘Coronavirus Outbreak in Prisons Would Be A Disaster’ – Bureau of Corrections Chief
Inmate advocates warn of COVID-19 spread in Canada’s correctional facilities
https://globalnews.ca/news/6738316/prisoner-advocates-jails-covid-19-coronavirus-canada/
What Will Happen If Coronavirus Hits Indian Prisons?
https://www.huffingtonpost.in/entry/coronavirus-india-prisons_in_5e7c4c82c5b6cb9dc19a6b2c
Cambodia: overcrowded prisons are 'ticking time bomb'
https://www.amnesty.org.uk/press-releases/cambodia-overcrowded-prisons-are-ticking-time-bomb
Ireland - Prisoners offered 'virtual visits' from loved ones after all in-person visits suspended
Coronavirus in Africa: pandemic feared in overcrowded prisons on the continent (in French)
Belgium - Coronavirus: 323 prisoners on extended prison leave (in French)
News 26 March
Coronavirus: First UK prison Covid-19 death confirmed
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-52047003#
HMP Manchester inmate becomes second British prisoner to die from coronavirus
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/hmp-manchester-inmate-becomes-second-17985185
England and Wales - Release inmates or face jail pandemic, say prison governors
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/mar/25/release-prisoners-or-face-jail-pandemic-says-chief
England and Wales - The reality of life in prison during the coronavirus pandemic
https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/coronavirus-prisons-prisoners-manchester-court-17976671
England and Wales - ‘No Masks, No Showers, No Soap’: Prisoners Say Coronavirus Is ‘Spreading Unchecked’ In Women’s Jails
https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/coronavirus-womens-prisons_uk_5e7a4974c5b62f90bc5253a1
England and Wales - 19 inmates across UK test positive for coronavirus in 10 prisons
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/19-inmates-across-uk-test-17982265
New Zealand - Covid 19 coronavirus: Call to lower prison population to combat spread of virus
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12319392
Prison riots break out across Argentina sparked by anger over conditions and coronavirus fears
How the coronavirus is igniting riots, releases and crackdowns in world’s prisons
UN rights chief urges quick action by governments to prevent devastating impact of COVID-19 in places of detention
https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/03/1060252
Coronavirus is a ticking time bomb for the Australian prison system
Calls for some prisoners to be released from Australia's jails due to coronavirus
Australia - We need to consider granting bail to unsentenced prisoners to stop the spread of coronavirus
Ireland - Prison visits and times restricted as part of Covid-19 measures
https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0325/1126319-prison-release/
Northern Ireland – Call for prisoner releases to be considered as more than 160 officers self-isolate
COVID-19: Moroccan Prisons Adopt 2-Week Shifts for Correctional Officers
Lock 'em up or let 'em out? Coronavirus prompts wave of prisoner releases
US - UCLA Law Builds Databases on Prisons and COVID-19
Ethiopia ፡ over 4000 prisoners walk free as part of COVID 19 prevention
News 25 March
England and Wales - Coronavirus: Inmates could be freed to ease virus pressure on jails
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-52029581#
England and Wales - Call to suspend face-to-face prison education as staff don’t even have basic handwashing facilities
Australia - Explainer: how will the emergency release of NSW prisoners due to coronavirus work?
US - Bureau of Prisons Imposes 14-Day Quarantine to Contain Coronavirus
US - 14 inmates escape from Washington jail amid COVID-19 shelter-in-place order
https://abcnews.go.com/US/14-inmates-escape-washington-jail-amid-covid-19/story?id=69767853
Russia’s Pretrial Prisons Vulnerable as COVID-19 Spreads
https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/03/24/russias-pretrial-prisons-vulnerable-covid-19-spreads
South Africa - Sonke Gender Justice: Reduce prison population to curb coronavirus
New Zealand - Coronavirus: More prison phone calls for inmates during lockdown
First Coronavirus Death in Madrid Prison in and 38 Correctional Officers Test Positive for Coronavirus in Spain
Bermuda - Prison sets up sanitisation stations
http://www.royalgazette.com/health/article/20200324/prison-sets-up-sanitisation-stations
Bosnia and Herzegovina - Convicts of Zenica Prison sewed over 2,000 Protective Masks in only Two Days
Coronavirus hits Turkish prisons with first inmate case reported
https://turkeypurge.com/coronavirus-hits-turkish-prisons-with-first-inmate-case-reported
Albania to Free 600 Prisoners as Pandemic Precaution
https://balkaninsight.com/2020/03/24/albania-to-free-600-prisoners-as-pandemic-precaution/
Nepal - Govt doing its bit to prevent COVID-19 outbreak in prisons
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/govt-doing-its-bit-to-prevent-covid-19-outbreak-in-prisons/
Bangladesh - Coronavirus gives prisoners the right to phone call
All prison visits in Scotland suspended as justice system reacts to coronoavirus lock-down
German state release some 1,000 prisoners due to coronavirus - report
News 24 March
Northern Ireland - Coronavirus: Prisoners to be released early
Confirmed coronavirus case at HMP Oakwood as virus reaches Britain's biggest prison
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/black-country/confirmed-coronavirus-case-hmp-oakwood-17966604
England and Wales - Three prisoners test positive for coronavirus in three different jails
Coronavirus: Prison visits cancelled across England and Wales
Scotland - Coronavirus: Fears as prison inmates start 'riot' over restrictions inside jail
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/coronavirus-hostage-fears-prison-inmates-21743141
Indonesia - Overcrowded and understaffed, prisons scramble to protect inmates from infection
Australia - Some NSW prisoners could be released early under Covid-19 emergency powers
Coronavirus: US prison inmates to make hospital gowns and masks amid critical shortage
WHO recommends tightening prison rules to prevent ‘outbreak’
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/633493-who-recommends-tightening-prison-rules-to-prevent-outbreak
New Zealand - Justice system: How prisons and courts are responding to Covid-19
India - Coronavirus: Tihar Jail to release 3,000 prisoners to ease congestion in prison
Colombia may release some prisoners after deadly riots over coronavirus
Portugal - Prisoners ‘of all kinds’ to be released as courts fail to meet judicial deadlines
News 21-23 March
Colombia says at least 23 killed, 91 injured in mass prison riots
https://colombiareports.com/colombia-says-at-least-23-killed-91-injured-in-mass-prison-riots/
Ban on Visitors Amid Coronavirus Triggers Riot in Sri Lanka Prison, 2 Inmates Killed
Coronavirus: Turkey to pass law to release 100,000 prisoners
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/coronavirus-turkey-law-release-inmates-prisons
US - Prisons And Jails Change Policies To Address Coronavirus Threat Behind Bars
US - Trump is considering releasing elderly, 'totally nonviolent' offenders from federal prisons amid coronavirus outbreak
US - California releases more jail inmates amid coronavirus crisis
India - Coronavirus curbs trigger prison riot in Kolkata; one shot, eight hurt
India - Coronavirus: Supreme Court orders release of prisoners to decongest jails
Northern Ireland - Prison visits suspended due to coronavirus crisis
England and Wales - Prisons ‘could see 800 deaths’ from coronavirus without protective measures
Kenya Prisons suspends visits over coronavirus fears
Anxiety grows for Egypt jail inmates at time of virus shutdowns
https://www.france24.com/en/20200320-anxiety-grows-for-egypt-jail-inmates-at-time-of-virus-shutdowns
Israel to send some 500 prisoners to house arrest to reduce jail virus threat
Coronavirus: Syrian regime to release prisoners
https://www.thenational.ae/world/coronavirus-syrian-regime-to-release-prisoners-1.995909
Bangladesh - Overcrowded prisons not equipped to deal with Covid-19 cases
https://www.thedailystar.net/city/news/overcrowded-prisons-not-equipped-deal-covid-19-cases-1884628
'Everyone will be contaminated': prisons face strict coronavirus controls
Poland wants to let some prisoners go home due to coronavirus
https://kfgo.com/2020/03/23/poland-wants-to-let-some-prisoners-go-home-due-to-coronavirus/
News 20 March
Two inmates at Scottish prison test positive for coronavirus
https://metro.co.uk/2020/03/19/two-inmates-scottish-prison-test-positive-coronavirus-12424908/
US jails begin releasing prisoners to stem Covid-19 infections
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-51947802#
Cayman Islands - Prison visits suspended
https://www.caymancompass.com/2020/03/19/prison-visits-suspended/
Coronavirus: 75 HMP Berwyn officers off sick or isolating
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-51966387#
South Africa - Prisons to undergo deep cleaning to limit the spread of coronavirus
https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/prisons-undergo-deep-cleaning-limit-coronavirus/
Uganda Prisons Service suspends visits to inmates
Canada - Convicts serving intermittent sentences granted leave from prison during COVID-19
Malta - Corradino prison takes early Covid-19 steps to protect inmates
Belgium - Coronavirus: some prison sentences may be postponed
Nepal - Convicts sentenced to less than year to be freed on bail or without bail
News 19 March
Italy must release inmates to fight coronavirus in prison: Rights group
France Urged to Free Prisoners to Thwart Virus in Crowded Jails
First Dutch Prison Inmate Diagnosed With Coronavirus
https://nltimes.nl/2020/03/19/first-dutch-prison-inmate-diagnosed-coronavirus
Overcrowded and unsanitary, Venezuela's prisons brace for coronavirus
Australia's overcrowded prisons could struggle to control coronavirus, expert says
Three dead after riot at prison in northwestern Romania amid Covid-19 restrictions
https://www.romania-insider.com/riot-prison-romania
US - Inmates in a prison with a coronavirus case say they're not allowed basic cleaning supplies and are worried about elderly inmates
https://www.insider.com/washington-prisoners-coronavirus-outbreak-cleaning-supplies-2020-3
New coronavirus cases in US jails heighten concerns about an unprepared system
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/03/18/politics/coronavirus-in-us-jails-heighten-concerns/index.html
First UK prisoner with coronavirus confirmed at HMP Manchester
Reassurances from HMIP as prison inspections suspended in England and Wales
http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/29434
Belize - Prison disallows visits as of Saturday in preparation for COVID-19
British Virgin Islands - Gov’t restricts visits to prison and residential establishments
https://bvinews.com/govt-restricts-visits-to-prison-and-residential-establishments/
COVID-19: New Preventive Measures for Moroccan Prisons
New Zealand - Coronavirus: 'Real concerns' over Covid-19's impact on prisons
News 13-18 March
Europe
Coronavirus: Emergency plan for prisons in England and Wales
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-51879952
England & Wales - Low-risk inmates could be released temporarily to ease pressure during coronavirus outbreak, head of prison officers union suggests
Irish prisons seek to release 200 prisoners in response to coronavirus recommendations
The 'doomsday' plan if coronavirus hits Northern Ireland's prisons
Luxembourg - Schrassig detention centre reduces visits to minimum
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1483295.html
Turkey - Prison Visits, Court Hearings Suspended over Coronavirus
http://bianet.org/english/health/221429-prison-visits-court-hearings-suspended-over-coronavirus
France - Coronavirus : Les Mesures Prises Dans Les Prisons
https://www.cnews.fr/france/2020-03-14/coronavirus-les-mesures-prises-dans-les-prisons-936125
Americas
US - Federal and most state prisons are banning visits to protect inmates from coronavirus
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/03/14/health/prisons-coronavirus-visitations-banned/index.html
US - How Prisons and Jails Can Respond to the Coronavirus
https://www.newyorker.com/news/q-and-a/how-prisons-and-jails-can-respond-to-the-coronavirus
US - Bureau Of Prisons Announces Guidance On Coronavirus
US - LA sheriff releases hundreds of inmates to protect them from coronavirus
Canada - Jails and prisons ban visitors, allow weekend inmates to stay home as coronavirus fears grow
Trinidad - Prisons lock down over COVID-19
Guyana - Prison service to curb visits as part of COVID-19 response
'Come back Monday, OK?' Hundreds of prisoners escape in Brazil amid Covid-19 anger
Middle East
Jordan says 2 dead in prison riot after visits banned over coronavirus
Bahrain pardons hundreds of prisoners as coronavirus fears spread
Israel - Prisons locked down over coronavirus fears
https://www.timesofisrael.com/prisons-locked-down-over-coronavirus-fears/
Riots rock overcrowded Lebanon prisons over coronavirus fears
Coronavirus: Iran frees 85,000 prisoners to combat spread of infection
Asia
India - Supreme Court takes suo moto cognisance of overcrowded prisons in wake of coronavirus
Maldives - COVID-19: Govt commences work to clean, disinfect Maafushi Prison
Thailand - All prisons closed to visitors March 18-31
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1881255/all-prisons-closed-to-visitors-march-18-31
Philippines - BuCor, BJMP ramp up efforts to protect inmates vs. Covid-19
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096991
Africa
South Africa - SA prisons suspend visits for 30 days due to Covid-19 outbreak