Contrary to widespread conspiracy theories, the recent investigative report by the inspector general for the Justice Department confirms that Jeffrey Epstein, the financier accused of multiple charges of sex trafficking, took his own life in federal prison in 2019. However, the report also highlights gross negligence that allowed Epstein to commit suicide.
The report reveals that Epstein’s cell was never inspected, and he was able to accumulate an excessive number of bedsheets, even after previous incidents involving self-harm. Furthermore, he was allowed to make an unmonitored and unrecorded phone call, a clear violation of policy. Additionally, despite indications of suicidal tendencies and the need for a cellmate, Epstein was left unchecked for several hours before his suicide, despite orders to check on him every 30 minutes.
While the report suggests certain reforms such as hiring more staff, tightening cell search procedures, fixing security cameras, and assigning cellmates to inmates on suicide watch, there are other critical issues that need addressing. One of these is the inhumane conditions of special housing units where Epstein spent most of his time. Inmates in these units are isolated and confined to their cells for the majority of the day, with limited human interaction. Although referred to as special housing units, prisoners are often double-celled due to overcrowding, exacerbating the already harsh conditions.
The inspector general claims that special housing units ensure inmates are secure and in good health, but spending the majority of the day confined to a small cell without proper human interaction is detrimental to one’s well-being. Solitary confinement is known to cause psychological distress, such as psychosis, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Furthermore, the lack of privacy and the close proximity to another inmate can escalate these effects and increase the risk of violence between inmates. The current system of double-celled solitary confinement is no different from traditional solitary confinement and fails to comply with constitutional standards.
Even when prisoners demonstrate suicidal tendencies, they are not treated with the care they require. Suicide watch, which Epstein was placed on briefly, subject inmates to even more restrictive conditions, including rough, tear-resistant smocks, isolation, and the absence of basic amenities like bedsheets, books, and showers. These conditions have been proven to exacerbate suicidal tendencies rather than alleviate them. Instead of providing therapy and support, inmates are further isolated and exposed to immense distress. Solitary confinement and the current design of suicide watch should have no place in a country that prohibits cruel and unusual punishment through the Constitution.
While Epstein’s death may not evoke sympathy from the public due to his heinous crimes, it is the government’s responsibility to ensure the well-being of all inmates, regardless of their offenses. Any death in custody highlights a failure of the prison system.
For those in need of help, resources like 988lifeline.org or the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 are available.
The views expressed in this editorial represent the opinions of The Washington Post’s Editorial Board, a separate entity from the newsroom.
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