Contact:
Tripp Laino, 202-999-4273
tlaino@famm.org

FAMM, Florida Cares Urge Swift Action From Florida DOC

TALLAHASSEE — In response to a leaked video allegedly showing employees of the Florida Department of Corrections (DOC) beating a man held at Florida’s Lake Correctional Institution, FAMM and the advocacy group Florida Cares have sent a letter urging DOC Sec. Mark Inch to investigate the incident and take swift action, if appropriate.

FAMM President Kevin Ring called the incident horrifying.

“We were horrified both at the video and the callous nature of the comments from the employees who witnessed the abuse,” Ring said. “This situation is exactly the kind that the families we work with fear most. This should not be swept under the rug.”

Denise Rock, executive director of Florida Cares, said that families live in dread for their their loved ones in prison.

“Our families don’t deserve to have to fear for their loved ones’ safety while incarcerated,” Rock said. “Incidents like the one caught on video at Lake Correctional must not continue.”

For nearly three decades, FAMM has united the voices of affected families, the formerly incarcerated, and a range of stakeholders and advocates to fight for a more fair and effective justice system. FAMM’s focus on ending a one-size-fits-all punishment structure has led to reforms to sentencing and prison policies in six states and is paving the way to programs that support rehabilitation for the 94% of all prisoners who will return to our neighborhoods one day.

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FAMM is a national nonpartisan advocacy organization that promotes fair and effective criminal justice policies that safeguard taxpayer dollars and keep our communities safe. Founded in 1991, FAMM is helping transform America’s criminal justice system by uniting the voices of impacted families and individuals and elevating the issues all across the country.

Florida Cares is a Florida nonprofit that is committed to improving the lives of the incarcerated through advocacy, visitation, and programs.