Inmate complaints typically are investigated by the prison system itself. In response to AP's report, State Secretary of Public Safety Gary Aronhalt said he was launching his own investigation. These are routine complaints. According to the AP, three Fluvanna correctional officers and a maintenance worker have resigned or been fired this year on charges ranging from giving gifts to inmates to sexual abuse, Senior Warden Patti Leigh Huffman said. Four other employees were disciplined and two resigned after allegations were made, she said.
Investigations are under way in three other cases.
If we speak out, other officers agitate you, write you tickets. We're not animals. The guard was fired and a grand jury later this month will consider whether to bring charges. Ms. Huffman said she encourages inmates to come forward. It is so humiliating.