Protesters Take to Pedestrian Bridge on First Night of PVDFest to Bring Attention to ACI Deaths
Saturday, September 09, 2023
Protesters took to the Mike Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge in Providence Friday night -- the first night of PVDFest -- to bring attention to recent deaths at the ACI.
SEE PHOTOS BELOW
It marks the latest in actions by the families and friends of the deceased, who are demanding reforms.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTAfter Rhode Island prison officials said that three individuals have died of reported suicides in recent months, families of the deceased, along with supporters, are holding a rally for answers and accountability.
The "Stop Torture Coalition," along with family members of those who recently passed away, is holding the event on May 9 outside the Rhode Island State House to demand that the Rhode Island legislature "act now to pass the Reform Solitary Confinement Act."
While details remain scarce due to the Rhode Island Department of Corrections' (RIDOC) lack of disclosure, it is known that Brian Rodenas passed away on May 2nd after spending months in solitary confinement for non-violent infractions. This disturbing trend highlights the urgent need to reform the use of solitary confinement by passing the Reform Solitary Act, House Bill 6161 and Senate Bill 0617. The cause of death has been reported by the DOC as suicide, but is being called ‘suspicious’ by family members who have seen the autopsy report, who are calling for a full investigation."
According to the group: “The three lives lost in the last several months underscore the need for reform. These lives were lost in a publicly managed and operated system which means the blood is on public hands. We stand willing and ready to come to the table in order to produce legislation that does everything in our power to prevent the loss of another life on our hands," said Senator Jonathan Acosta (District 16 - Central Falls, Pawtucket) who is the sponsor of the Reform Solitary Confinement Act along with Representative Leonela Felix (District 61 - Pawtucket).
“The unfortunate deaths of these 3 inmates just solidifies the need for the Reform Solitary Confinement Act to be passed. Personally observing what it did to my sister Charlene Liberty’s mental health and the direct torture tactics she received from the correctional officers at the ACI screams for oversight and reform. My condolences to the families who are now left to endure the lifetime of heartache," said Elisha Liberty, Stop Torture Steering Committee Member and sister of Charlene Liberty, who passed away after being put in solitary confinement repeatedly for attempted suicide.
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