Thanks for your input and for the work that you do. I do not want to insult your profession--I really do think a few bad apples in a few spots can make it bad for everyone. I know I couldn't do your job.
I had a problem with the way that the appeals process was handled with this guy who knew he had a problem and complained about it. That's just one part of the whole system.
Thank you for your kind words, we in corrections appreciate it. And believe me, I have no problem admitting the system is screwed up in places. I just want freepers to use the same healthy skepticism for prison stories that they do for others. There are "cowboys" and screwups working in prisons. Prisons have the same problems as other professions... they have to hire from the human race ;) As regards the appeal process,if they screwed up, the state will owe this guy "bigtime" and some current corrections employee will be filling out a "7-11" application shortly. But let the system play itself out. There's not any possibility the prisoner is looking for a big check is he? Pardon my cynicism, but prisoners have LOTS of time to start lawsuits, 98% of which are a complete waste of time, and are unfounded. Back at the academy they said "if you stay in this job long enough , you may get assaulted, you may get promoted, and you WILL get sued". When you're a rookie, prisoners regularly threaten to sue you for anything until you learn to look them square in the eye and say "spell my name right, D*mnit". Then the intimidation usually stops. If he's got a legitimate grudge, then let the legal system take care of it. If not , it'll get thrown out like the rest. I freely admit the system can be improved, and good conscientious people will continue to do so.
CC