Obama curbs solitary confinement in federal prisons, bans its use for juveniles
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President Barack Obama says the unnecessary use of solitary confinement is “an affront to our common humanity” and he is taking steps to reduce its use in federal prisons.
In a Washington Post op-ed, Obama said he is banning the use of solitary confinement in federal prisons for juveniles and for low-level infractions, In addition, he is increasing the amount of time inmates in solitary can spend outside of their cells and expanding treatment for the mentally ill. The New York Times and the Washington Post have stories on Obama’s announcement.
Obama said the U.S. Justice Department recommended the reforms as a result of a review that he ordered last summer.
“Research suggests that solitary confinement has the potential to lead to devastating, lasting psychological consequences,” Obama wrote. “It has been linked to depression, alienation, withdrawal, a reduced ability to interact with others and the potential for violent behavior. Some studies indicate that it can worsen existing mental illnesses and even trigger new ones. Prisoners in solitary are more likely to commit suicide, especially juveniles and people with mental illnesses.
“The United States is a nation of second chances, but the experience of solitary confinement too often undercuts that second chance. Those who do make it out often have trouble holding down jobs, reuniting with family and becoming productive members of society. …
“How can we subject prisoners to unnecessary solitary confinement, knowing its effects, and then expect them to return to our communities as whole people? It doesn’t make us safer. It’s an affront to our common humanity.”
