Prisoners Face Challenges Pursuing Mistreatment Complaints

Why it matters locally: The findings of this national investigation are relevant to Maine, as the state operates correctional facilities that house inmates who may utilize grievance processes to report mistreatment. Concerns about retaliation for reporting abuse could affect the treatment and legal protections of individuals incarcerated within Maine's correctional system.

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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.