McKnight Response to Assembly Joint Edna Mahan Correctional Facility Hearing

“There are no words for the beyond dreadful experiences of the women in Edna Mahan Correctional Facility and no excuses for there not to be action taken to fix this broken system.”

            (TRENTON) –   Assemblywoman Angela McKnight, issued the following statement on Thursday following the day-long hearing on the incidents and culture within the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility:

“First-person experiences, like the ones we’ve heard today from former inmates, always tell the real story. There are no words for the beyond dreadful experiences of the women in Edna Mahan Correctional Facility and no excuses for there not to be action taken to fix this broken system in our prisons, especially at Edna Mahan.

“After hours of testimony, which I thank all for sharing their stories and expertise, we have heard in-depth about the inhumane and degrading culture of this facility. It’s horrifying. I am severely disappointed in the operation of this prison. This should not happen in our state.

“Change must occur immediately. The women in Edna Mahan, and matter of fact as a witness brought up, all inmates deserve better care, respect, and protection while in any of our prison facilities. This should remain their civil right even while incarcerated.

“I look forward to working with the committees further on the concerns and ideas raised today.”