Until Nov. 17, it had been 50 years since a Virginia prison guard had been killed by an inmate. According to VADOC, that changed when a corrections officer was severely injured by an inmate at the River North Correctional Center in Southwest Virginia. The guard later died of his injuries.
Model prisons, mental health, staff shortages: An interview with Margaret Breslau
An interview with Margaret Breslau, a co-founder of the Virginia Prison Justice Network and chair of the Coalition for Justice. The Coalition produces a monthly newsletter for the VAPJN that is sent to thousands of prisoners, reaching virtually every Virginia facility.
Fishback? A message from RIHD
An important message from RIHD to any individual granted parole through the Fishback provision of SB 793. If this describes your situation, they would like to hear from you.
Crisis & Cover-up at Red Onion Super-Max
In May 2023, an inmate at Red Onion Super-Max set himself on fire in order to be transferred out of the institution where he feared for his life. At least two more men have taken the same desperate action since.
Norfolk rally demands ‘Reopen the Ford cases!’
Former prisoners, family members and their supporters held a rally Oct. 12 at Norfolk’s Town Point Park to demand justice for people they say were wrongfully convicted as a result of actions taken by a crooked cop.
Jermaine Doss denied parole for 4th time
Jermaine Doss, a wrongfully convicted Norfolk man sentenced to life-plus-34 years, has been turned down for parole for the 4th time.
Rashid update: Hunger Strike leader in critical condition
The following is an updated version of a Fact Sheet the Defenders have sent to the media and are sending to all 140 members of the 2024 Virginia General Assembly. We are asking that they – and you, our readers – contact VADOC Director Chadwick Dotson and express support for Rashid.
The Virginia Defender 