(We had the opportunity to interview a lady that recently transferred from California’s CIW prison to Perryville.)

“I was going through severe mental health issues at California Institution for Women, which is a prison in southern California. I was never handcuffed but was taken to a watch cell where I changed into a smock with velcro fasteners. An RN in the mental health care division immediately saw me in the room. No guard is staring at you as they have cameras instead.

I received 3 hot meals a day although that came with a paper spoon and cup. Recreation was twice a day, I was allowed to socialize with others, and I was given my clothes back on the third day. We had access to a library at all times. The maximum stay in watch is 5 days. There was constant counseling available, and a psychologist on site.”