Carbondale Reporter

In response to reports from constituents about exposure to drugs and other unknown substances in prison facilities, several Southern Illinois Republican lawmakers are urging the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) to temporarily halt mail processing services within correctional facilities. The call for action comes from State Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg), State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro), State Representative Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis), State Representative Paul Jacobs (R-Pomona), State Representative David Friess (R-Red Bud), and State Representative Dave Severin (R-Benton).

The group of lawmakers sent a joint letter on September 23 requesting that IDOC make these temporary changes. They issued a statement emphasizing the need for immediate action: "The safety of both staff and inmates in our prisons must be our top priority. However, actions speak louder than words, and we refuse to stand by while employees of our correctional facilities continue to be exposed to dangerous threats."

The lawmakers further stated, "Given the ongoing risks posed by contaminated mail, we have formally requested that the Director of IDOC temporarily suspend non-legal mail processing services until appropriate safety protocols are established. IDOC must prioritize the well-being of both correctional officers and inmates. We will continue to stand in support of our officers and work with our fellow lawmakers to help put an end to staff and inmates being exposed to unnecessary risks."

To read the letter requesting the suspension of mail services within IDOC facilities, click here.

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