Prisoners Face Challenges Pursuing Mistreatment Complaints

Why it matters locally: The findings of this investigation are particularly relevant given West Virginia's existing correctional facilities and the population of over 1.7 million, some of whom may be incarcerated and subject to similar challenges.

Prisoners who file complaints about mistreatment often experience retaliation, according to an investigation conducted by NPR and The Marshall Project. The investigation found that the process of reporting abuse frequently presents considerable challenges for inmates. Prisoners are permitted to submit grievances regarding perceived mistreatment. However, the investigation concluded that individuals who do so often face negative repercussions.