Sex slaves in AZ

In the news, two prisoners at Buckeye, AZ took two guards hostage. What's not in the news are pleas from prisoners about the horror of prisoner rape and sexual slavery there. Nothing is done to stop it. Society pretends these acts of violence don't happen. Crimes -- often perpetrated by heterosexuals against anyone perceived to be homosexual, transsexual, young or vulnerable -- are ignored.

Authorities should consider the effects of such constant threats of violence where there is no chance for escape. The horrors increase and continue to ensnare many lives. No protective custody is given even when proof is shown of the abuse. Due to AIDS and hepatitis-C those who are raped in the prison rape and sex trade are often given a death sentence no matter what their court-ordered sentence. These prisoners live with depression, loss of self-esteem and perpetual terror.

A footnote: The guard who was released at ASPC-Lewis in Buckeye commended the administration for not attacking the prisoners holding her. She was released after officials guaranteed the two men would be transferred out of Arizona to another state.

--an Arizona prisoner, 18 April, 2004