Aug. 01, '23

Anyone who knows someone presently incarcerated at USP Coleman I, is aware that over 1400 men have been on a straight lockdown since June 28th, seeing relief for only a partial day, on July 5th!  These men have not so much as been given a reason for this Excessive & Insane Lockdown.  This is completely senseless when the very apparent reason was broadcast on news stations for all to see; that being Larry Nassar's nonfatal stabbing.  In fact, I just learned that Nassar is now housed at USP Lewisburg, yet Coleman I remains completely locked down.  As a loved one housed there recently expressed to me, he is constantly punished for instances he has nothing to do with, (as is the vast majority there), but I, too, am inadvertently punished (as is anyone else connected to these Coleman men).  

They have not been allowed out to make contact with their children, family, nor friends in the duration of this extensive lockdown.  One of the greatest set backs I see is the loss of visits for these inmates.  One mother I spoke with, has been unable to visit in person with her son for 12 years.  With much effort and assistance, she finally had a visit scheduled for mid July, and was regretfully forced to cancel all travel plans, which were already set, due to this nonsensical lockdown.  There is tremendous negative impact, and much lost on behalf of an inmate, when a greatly anticipated visit is cruelly and inhumanely torn from them.  Much time, expense, and deliberate planning can be required for many of the visitors to actually arrive at these visits, including requesting and scheduling time off, only to have to endure the hardship of cancelling and undoing all the previous legwork involved.  Children are definitely emotionally harmed in this unnecessary and extreme process of Mass punishment.  Not to mention, the men coming off of these unmerited and excessive lockdowns usually come out with much pent up frustration, irritation, and understandable anger, which completely exacerbates an already volatile situation.  As they end up acting upon all these induced and clearly provoked negative emotions, what ends up being the one and only "deterrent" put in place?  Yet another lockdown!!

I beseech you to aid me in assisting to "release" these already incarcerated men from this cruel and unusual ongoing punishment of a total and complete 24 hour lockdown of over 1400 Coleman I men.                           

~ May God touch your hearts, and bless your souls.