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The conditions at the Hobby Woman Unit in Marlin Texas are widely recognized as extremely poor. These include inadequate air circulation, subpar medical care, and contaminated water. In 2003, I encountered Hobby Hotel (also known as 76661), which can only be described as a horrifying abyss. Through my research and documented inmate accounts in court filings, it became clear that Hobby Unit was a place where prisoners either died or desired death by their own hands or through others' actions. The prison suffered from severe overcrowding and understaffing.
Additionally, the staff demonstrated complete disregard for the well-being of the inmates, seemingly driven solely by collecting their paychecks.
The officer has the authority to write a violation "Case" against the inmate, which in turn leads to various consequences. These consequences include losing commissary and visitation rights, as well as being confined to a single or two-person cell. These cells lack proper air circulation and medical treatment, resulting in inmate deaths attributed to the treatment received within the justice system.
The custody levels in this facility are categorized as close and middle.
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In closed custody, inmates are only allowed out of their cells for showering purposes, during which they are handcuffed. The overall environment resembles that of an animal shelter, with constant noise and unrest.
The officer's access to the cellblock was limited to providing food or forced assistance. In cases where an inmate needed medical attention, protection from assault by another inmate, or attempted suicide, the officers would only open the cell door if a higher-ranking officer was present with a video camera.
This treatment dehumanizes inmates and treats them as animals.
Inmates have been getting sick due to contaminated water, which poses life-threatening risks. Insufficient medical care and polluted water could potentially lead to deaths. Instances of self-harm by inmates, assaults on inmates, or suicides are common at Hobby Hell - the women's facility in Texas. The issue of water contamination remains ongoing. According to an EPA report dated August 5, 2004 and based on data extracted on July 17, 2004, the facility's water used for showering, cooking, and drinking is contaminated and has tested positive for Atrazine.
There are no purification methods for these women inmates. The EPA has documented potential short-term health effects from Atrazine exposure, such as congestion in the heart, lungs and kidneys, low blood pressure, muscle spasms, weight loss, and damage to adrenal glands. Additionally, long-term exposure to Atrazine at levels above the MCL can lead to weight loss, cardiovascular damage, retinal and muscle degeneration, and cancer.
Inmates and their families have been complaining about their ill health and suffering from heat exhaustion, which only adds to the problem. The lack of ventilation inside the cellblock brings the temperature up to 120 degrees. Furthermore, there are unsanitary conditions, sleep deprivation, and contaminated water that the inmates are being forced to drink due to a shortage of fresh bottled water, which is not available to all inmates.
The prison officials should be appalled by the lack of humane treatment and the ongoing medical problems caused by the contaminated water within the Hobby Unit.
It is crucial to immediately investigate and resolve this matter. It is important to acknowledge that inmates, who are incarcerated for rehabilitation purposes, should not be subjected to abuse or mistreatment. It is absolutely necessary to ensure that all inmates have access to bottled water and adequate medical care. These problems require urgent attention as they are serious. The current situation is critical because inmates are losing their lives while in the custody of our Justice Systems. The water situation at the women's prison has been reported 180 times since 2001, but the problems persist along with other unresolved alleged violations. The women housed in the Hobby Unit in Marlin, Texas, are experiencing severe illnesses due to the insufficient water supply within their facility.
For a considerable amount of time, this problem has persisted. Government officials refute the accusations and assert that purchasing bottles of water is feasible. Nonetheless, due to limited storage capacity in cells, individuals are unable to carry an adequate amount of bottled water to endure the two-week gap between commissary visits. While not everyone can afford to buy water, these women are in desperate need of it. The commissary system functions as another means for the state to generate income without assisting those who require help. In scorching Texas summers, there is no air conditioning, and the heating system malfunctions during winter. Officials may argue that inmates can acquire fans; however, not everyone can afford one. To be eligible for a fan provided by the state, inmates must have had no funds in their account for at least six months and must not have violated any prison policies. It often takes weeks or even months to receive a fan. Tragically, inmates have lost their lives while awaiting fulfillment of their obligations from the justice system.
Helen Ann Caples, an inmate at the Hobby Unit in Marlin, Texas, filed a lawsuit stating that the water in Marlin has been contaminated. In 2003, it was discovered that the drinking water was contaminated, leading to restrictions for inmates at the Hobby Unit. They were only allowed three six-ounce cups of water per day for all purposes. The limited water supply also meant no toilet flushes were possible. Portable toilets were provided within the unit; however, inmates in close custody couldn't access them as they weren't permitted to leave their cells. Consequently, the toilets inside their cells became clogged with urine and feces, resulting in flies, gnats, and a foul odor. This unsanitary condition persisted for four to five days.
The issue of contaminated water has been a problem for several years. In 2003, the solutions of having three-minute showers or limiting showers to once a week were introduced. However, these were just temporary measures. According to risk manager Emily Davidson, the long-awaited solution to this problem is a better filtration system for our drinking water. Although a water-polishing unit was initially believed to have resolved the contamination issue, a recent admission by a risk management official confirms that additional filtration is necessary. Until this extra filtration is installed, inmates at the Hobby Unit will continue to be exposed to contaminated water.
In August of 2004, the temperature at the Hobby Unit ranged from 100 to 106 degrees every day. During that time, offenders at the unit faced multiple boil water advisories, some of which lasted for a whole month. Despite this, TDCJ officials denied any issues with the water. The summer also saw six suicides and four deaths due to heat-related illnesses at the unit. However, the problems at the Hobby Unit go beyond just the water. One woman who I knew died in April 2006 due to colon cancer and loss of bowel control. There are also three long-time inmates in their early 40s who have cancer - one with breast cancer and the other two with colon cancer who require diapers. Another inmate at the unit suffers from fibrosis.
Many inmates at the Hobby Unit have acquired problems with H-pylori, bacteria found in the stomach that are known to cause ulcers. Recently, inmates have been experiencing blood in their urine, along with a high white blood cell count that can lead to cancer. These issues have arisen since being incarcerated at the Hobby Unit.
In addition to these health problems, our showers are also infested with worms (maggots) that later turn into flies on the floor of the shower stalls. During the winter, rats roam from cell to cell in search of food, while roaches and water bugs are consistently present in our cells. Furthermore, birds frequently fly in and out of the chow hall, leaving droppings on the tables and floors.
On December 7, 2005, Ms. Franzoni, a field boss, was working in the chow hall when a bird entered through a window near the ceiling and broke its neck. Ms. Franzoni handled the dead bird as if it were unharmed.
The presence of birds flying in and out of the chow hall is not seen as a problem by anyone. However, it is important to note that birds can carry lice and certain types of bird flu. Despite this, the doors to the chow hall remain open, and the birds view it as a large barn filled with food. The ACLU, who visited the unit, witnessed the birds flying in and out of the chow hall but did not view it as an issue, similar to the staff and COs of Hobby Unit. The water issue and the potential future health problems already make the environment frightening, without the added concern of worms (maggots) in the showers and birds entering the chow hall. On May 26, 2006, during chow time, a bird flew across Nicole Williams' table and defecated on it. A kitchen worker only partially cleaned the table with a kitchen rag, but Lt. Scott did not allow them to move to another table. Lt. Scott offered them the option to either continue eating at their current table or leave.
(Helen Ann Caples 2003) The sworn affidavit of inmate Jessica Garza #1293892 states that she experiences dizziness, bad headaches, and nausea when consuming the prison tap water. She believes that action should be taken to address this issue. (Garza, J 2005, May 5) Additionally, inmate Kelley Courtney [no number available] attests in a sworn affidavit that the water at the Hobby Unit frequently causes her to feel ill, resulting in persistent headaches.
Reports have emerged of a stomach virus, diarrhea, and severe stomach cramps, with symptoms so intense that they feel life-threatening. Additionally, inmates have developed an over-active thyroid problem during their time in incarceration. It strongly appears that the drinking water is responsible for numerous health issues. Recently, doctors discovered a potentially cancerous lump on my right breast. While uncertain about this specific case, it is clear that the water is causing harm to many inmates. Is it possible that the constant dizziness and near-fainting spells we experience are due to the water? I hope and pray for our liberation from this unpleasant water. (Courtney, K 2005, June 6)
Press Release
For Immediate Release, as of November 27, 2006
By Helen Caples
"To achieve and enforce meaningful legal victories, it is believed that a robust prison reform movement is necessary. However, the prison reform movement can also gain advantages by taking legal action to further its political influence. Through high-profile lawsuits, the public can become aware of the harsh conditions within prisons. The effort to obtain a court order can contribute significantly to political mobilization both inside and outside prison. When supported by a powerful reform movement, favorable court rulings can persuade prison officials to restrain themselves, resulting in slightly less brutal conditions for inmates."
The inmates at the Hobby Unit are being exposed to contaminated water, which is causing stomach and colon cancer. Additionally, there is a lack of action being taken by TDCJ officials responsible for their confinement. These officials prioritize serving time and controlling inmates over their well-being. As a result, many of us at Hobby Prison are slowly dying each day. It is my hope and prayer that this press release will not only be acknowledged but that someone can help us.
Respectfully Submitted, For Immediate Release, as of November 27, 2006 By Helen Caples
Helen Caples #535949 Hobby Unit 742 FM 712 Marlin, TX 76661
Tom Hardin of the Texoma Coalition in the Oklahoma City Office is showing solidarity with the women of the Hobby Unit in Marlin, Texas. They are organizing a letter writing campaign to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) because the water in the prison was brown and causing cancer and various illnesses. Unfortunately, there are numerous women in this prison. In December 2007, TCEQ received another letter (see below) that reiterated the complaints about the contaminated water and emphasized that this battle is far from over.
She has been working at this prison for a while now, approximately 5 years. She has been aware of the presence of tetrazzini in the water. According to her, water testing is conducted daily at Hobby Unit, but prisoners are not allowed to view the test results. However, she claims to have seen some of the information herself. She asserts that at least four healthy women that she is acquainted with have been hospitalized after fainting. Initially, it was believed that she might have been exaggerating or that there could be a different cause, but after reading your letter, it appears to be much worse than she initially knew. Robin Head wrote: From: "Robin Head"
Subject: RE: Hobby Water Suit Date: Tue, 27 Jun 2006 12:17:09 -0700
Robin Head recalls her experience at the Hobby unit in Marlin, Texas in 2001, where the water became contaminated with unknown bacteria. Signs were posted on the dorm walls cautioning against drinking the water. The Gastrology Department at Sealy Hospital attributed Robin's illness to IBS of unknown origin and prescribed Nexium for two years. After relocating to Nevada, Robin's doctor switched her medication to Zelnorm. Unfortunately, the persistent and frequent illness caused by this condition makes it impossible for Robin to maintain employment. Despite ongoing treatment, a cure seems elusive, leaving only temporary remedies to cope with this lifelong ailment. Robin Head, June 27, 2006.
Helen Caples, currently incarcerated in Hobby Unit, Marlin Texas, gave permission for the following quote: "My name is Helen Ann Caples and I am representing myself in legal proceedings. I have filed a lawsuit against the mayor of Marlin TX, the Senior Warden, and the former Warden concerning the issue of contaminated water. I am experiencing various health issues such as blood in urine, painful gastric distress, abnormal pap smears, muscle spasms, and other symptoms. Malissa Hawkins, who had a breast removed, provided me with your address. She obtained your address from Tiffany Brown. Linda Johnson is also part of this group; she has colon cancer. Debra Dove is another person affected with fibrosis on her uterus. There are several others who have suffered as well. It is crucial for this case to receive public attention through press releases."
I contacted Mr. Ray Hill Prison Radio Talk Show, a State Representative, and Texas Cure, expressing my concerns about the contaminated water possibly originating from Falls Co, where numerous cattle feed lots are located. It is alarming that the EPA and other authorities can evade accountability through various permits, while the public suffers. It is imperative for toxicological experts to conduct tests on the careless disposal and contamination of our water supply. The water in this area emits a foul odor and has a distinct taste akin to lead, causing discomfort when consumed. The overall smell of this location resembles a swamp. " More information regarding Hobby water is necessary.
“These are human beings slowly poisoned. They cannot pick up their belongings and move to a safer environment. They are wards of the state. How can we allow this to continue?????" (Knueppel, K)
According to the latest information obtained, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) received the plans for water system improvements at the end of 2006. We are interested in confirming whether these plans have been approved and obtaining a timeline for implementing the improvements. Additionally, we would like to inquire about any upcoming testing of the prison water in the following months. Between January 16th and 18th, there was excessive use of chlorine in the water, leading to discomfort such as eye and throat irritation. On the 17th, shower usage was restricted due to the strong chlorine levels, which were at their highest on that day.
You couldn't take a long shower because the chlorine was so strong that it was difficult to breathe for an extended period of time. It's unbelievable that they expect us to drink it during meals, knowing how potent it is. I don't understand why they require such a high concentration of chlorine. Alesha explained to me that they flush the pipes with chlorine on a monthly basis, either slightly before or after the 20th of each month. This process lasts for three days, with the third day being the most intense before gradually decreasing. The statements I sent you last night confirm what Alesha has reported.
Kathleen Knueppel, the founder of Humane Treatment 4 Human Beings, contacted GPTX to address the issue of women at Hobby Prison in Marlin, Texas. These women are in need of uncontaminated drinking water to avoid getting sick. The prison, located approximately two hours from Austin and east of Waco and Temple, has been experiencing poor water quality for several years. While those outside the prison can find relief with bottled water, prisoners have to bear the cost, which is cheaper for the guards to purchase inside the prison. Knueppel has collected over 20 statements from prisoners documenting these conditions. She also provided a letter from Isaac Jackson of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, which lists multiple violations of the Marlin water supply from June 2001 to October 2005.
The city received 14 violations from TCEQ. In May 2006, a meeting concluded that major capital funding was necessary for the city to comply. The city secured a $1M grant and an $11.6M loan. This funding aims to convert the old treatment plant to a modern membrane filtration system, increase pumping capacity, and construct an additional water tower. The loan approval depended on the design, originally expected to happen by October 1, 2006. After that, it was estimated that the construction project would take 18 months to finish. However, it seems that the design is still pending. Water tests were conducted at Hobby and found to be normal in December, but they were not performed during the summer or any of the frequent water boil advisories.
Starting on January 1, 1998, a state law was implemented stating that the department of criminal justice must collect a fee from every offender who wishes to visit a health care provider. For each health care visit requested, a fee of $3.00 will be charged. There are three ways to make such a request: by filling out and submitting a sick call request form, by asking a staff member for help in accessing health care services, or by going directly to the health care facility as a walk-in patient.
The fee will be deducted from your trust fund account. If the balance in your trust fund account is insufficient, 50% of each deposit to your fund will be allocated to the outstanding amount until it is fully settled.
Hobby Woman Unit: A Horrifying Abyss of Inhumane Treatment. (2016, May 07). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/marlin-texas-hobby-unit-essay
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