I am currently housed in the Central Training Facility, C.T. F. Soledad State Prison. I have been in the state prison system for exactly 3 years, 8 months, and 7 days. My commitment term was 3 years, 8 months. I was due for parole in April 2005 but I have a case pending which occurred while incarcerated. I have been in Administrative Segregation for 5 months. I have not heard any word from the county courthouse, nor has any C.O., counselor, or any other badge informed me of what is going on, where I am going or when. All the jailhouse lawyers are adamant that I should have been released to the streets of Monterey County as of 6 days ago.
I am making no progress with my argument for several reasons. We are housed in one-man cells with two inmates. We also get all the "perks" of a S.H.U.: one hour in the yard, showers every two days, shining handcuffs and shackles with a courteous cavity check upon exiting our cells. If you can't tell, I am being sarcastic! These are very belittling rituals. I don't know how I would have reacted, being thrown out to the streets. I've dragged this letter on long enough, let me go on.
My partner discreetly passed me three issues of "MIM Notes." I was very intrigued by your publications, articles, and opinions. I too am a very opinionated young man, with a broad view of life, both inside and outside prison. I am young to the system but not to his lifestyle. I've come to realize there are other ways to accomplish situations I may come across. I am ready to take action. If you would please send me my own issues of "MIM Notes," I would greatly appreciate that. I would love to broaden my horizon, and reading about the real problems of the prison system and being able to opinionize them would truly keep me awake--so that this burdening system does not hypnotize me into believing that this is the only way to conform our comrades!
With much respect and admiration for your strength and courage to put pressure on this cruel system,
- a prisoner in California May, 2005