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Virginia legislators are seeking answers as to why six inmates have set themselves on fire. The head of the state’s prison system has spoken out against claims that the self-burnings at Red Onion State Prison, a facility with a track record of complaints, were a form of protest against subpar conditions.
Written by Amanda Holpuch
In a Virginia prison, at least six inmates have burned themselves using makeshift tools in the past few months. This has raised worries about the conditions for prisoners in the facility and has led some state lawmakers to request an impartial investigation into the matter.
Chadwick Dotson, who is in charge of the Virginia Department of Corrections, disagreed with reports claiming that the burnings at Red Onion State Prison in Wise County, Va were a form of protest against the poor conditions at the facility.
On Wednesday, Mr. Dotson stated that the inmates had caused burns to themselves by using homemade tools created by altering electrical outlets. He clarified that the inmates did not intentionally set themselves on fire. However, he did not provide further details on the specific improvised devices that were used.
A few prisoners received care for their burns at a hospital, while others did not require medical attention from outside sources.
The speaker mentioned that all six prisoners have been directed to mental health professionals for help, and it is important to mention that some of these prisoners have a past of hurting themselves.
After news reports, including coverage by Radio IQ, a Virginia public radio station, and discussions by human rights groups and politicians, Mr. Dotson made a statement regarding the burnings. Prison Radio, which airs messages from incarcerated individuals, highlighted the cases in October.
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