Browse Items (1263 total)

Press release containing excerpts from observer reports. The release ends with an itemized list of common complaints, which are detailed throughout. Generally, prisoners are happy with the decreased tensions and the new cook. However, a major problem…

This file describes the proper way to format typed observer reports and how to censor names.

A list of all the citizen observers in Walpole from March 8 to April 4, 1973.

There is conflict between the cadets and old guards.

Medication disbursement and mealtime went smoothly. There is little interaction between guards and prisoners; the one time a prisoner asked a guard for more medication, he was "put off."

Report detailing a discussion with the guards in Minimum Security from 11pm - 7am shift

This report talks about concerns with the kitchen staff, reactions to Boone's speech, and evidence of prisoners running medication dispensary

Prisoners feel that the observer presence is minimizing harassment from guards. Moreover, cells are unclean, with broken windows and loose wires.

Prisoners have medical problems and struggle to get the proper treatment

Describes how the guards acted during overnight shift and how the lights stayed on in one cell block

A typed observer report written by David Andersen on March 5th, 1973

A handwritten observer written by David Andersen on March 5th, 1973

Repeated instances of medication not being distributed on time.

Some prisoners need medical treatment but have not seen doctors. However, medication is distributed smoothly by prisoners to other prisoners.

Some prisoners need medical treatment but have not seen doctors. However, medication is distributed smoothly by prisoners to other prisoners.

One of the main problems is the poor distribution of medication. Additionally, the state holds all the monies in account for the prisoners.

The letter announces that the NPRA Massachusetts Chapter has become an official organization. Additionally, annual elections are coming up.

Coles mentions current problems at Walpole and explains how the NPRA needs to use its power against the prison system. He encourages people who plan on attending the March 9 meeting to sign an enclosed card.

The observer walked through both minimum and maximum. The prisoners were doing various activities in their cells, and the one guard in minimum was friendly.