Federal Bureau of Prisons Director Colette Peters stated that despite taking steps and providing extensive resources to improve staff culture and behavior, the prison was not meeting standards and the decision was made to close.
FCI Dublin is one of six federal prisons for women. It currently houses 605 inmates with plans to transfer to other facilities and no staff will lose their jobs.
Federal Detention Center (FCI) in Dublin, California, USA. Photo: AP
The sudden closure has sparked backlash, with some arguing it was unfair. Amaris Montes, a lawyer representing inmates, said the decision to close the prison may not solve the problem and should be done thoughtfully.
Activists have called for the release of prisoners at FCI Dublin, citing not only sexual abuse but also problems such as dangerous mould and inadequate healthcare.
The prison underwent a makeover after an FBI raid. However, an AP investigation in 2021 found that abuse and cover-ups had persisted for years at the prison, with at least eight FCI Dublin employees accused of sexually abusing inmates.
Activists also fear that closing FCI Dublin may not solve the problem, and that other women’s prisons could face similar problems. Montes said the civil lawsuit is still ongoing and the Federal Bureau of Prisons is still responsible for ensuring inmate safety.
Thu Giang (according to AP)
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