by Laurence Hammack | Aug 26, 2000 | Prisons
As a bus full of convicts made its way from Connecticut to the western tip of Virginia, Lawrence Frazier had good reason to fear what awaited him at the mountaintop prison that would be his final destination. Frazier, a diabetic inmate, later said he nearly died...
by Laurence Hammack | Jul 6, 2000 | Prisons
A Connecticut inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison died five days after being shocked repeatedly with a stun gun and then strapped to a bed, prompting yet another volley of criticism aimed at the “supermax” lockup. Authorities have not determined if the...
by Laurence Hammack | Mar 1, 2000 | Prisons
The warden of Wallens Ridge State Prison removed Confederate memorabilia from his office recently after critics called it unsuitable for a supermax facility where guards have been accused of racial intolerance. Criticism came mostly from Connecticut lawmakers, who...
by Laurence Hammack | Aug 9, 1998 | Prisons
POUND — The twisting road that climbs like an asphalt snake to the top of Red Onion Mountain is a dead end, and that seems only appropriate. At the end of Virginia 361 stands the gate of Red Onion State Prison. The newly constructed maze of concrete and steel is...
by Laurence Hammack | Feb 26, 1995 | Prisons
NASHVILLE — Were it not for the perimeter of razor wire and chain-link fences, the building at 5115 Harding Place would easily blend in with the suburban sprawl of discount stores, motels and industry that surrounds it. The Metro Davidson County Detention...