Nearly all inmates have been transferred out of a troubled women's prison in California that is set to be shut down. The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) confirmed that only a small group of women remained at FCI Dublin, with the majority of its 605 inmates already relocated to other federal facilities. The closure plan has sparked demands for transparency and accountability from U.S. senators.
The Senate Judiciary Committee expressed worries about reports of a chaotic transfer process, alleging mistreatment, harassment, neglect, and abuse during transit. Concerns were raised about inadequate medical care and abusive behavior by guards towards the women being transferred.
Despite these claims, the BOP stated that it was addressing the inmates' needs with compassion and respect during the transfer process. The bureau emphasized careful planning and coordination to ensure the safe transfer of women to other facilities, taking into account their unique programming, medical, and mental health requirements.
The decision to close FCI Dublin came after a history of abuse and mismanagement, including a culture of sexual assault that was exposed in a 2021 investigation. Efforts to reform the prison had failed, leading to the unprecedented move to shut it down.
Following the closure announcement, a court-ordered review of each inmate's specific needs was initiated. Despite some legal challenges, the bureau proceeded with the transfers, citing the significant resources already invested in the process.
Advocates have criticized the rushed closure and transfer protocol, calling for a more humane approach. Concerns have been raised about the well-being of the inmates post-transfer, especially given the toxic environment at FCI Dublin.
Some inmates have been relocated to facilities in different states, causing distress among those who had regular contact with their families. Advocates have also highlighted ongoing issues such as hazardous conditions and inadequate healthcare at women's prisons.
A civil lawsuit filed by eight FCI Dublin inmates last year alleged that the BOP had failed to address sexual abuse at the facility. The legal battle is expected to continue as the closure process unfolds.
