Mississippi Governor Says 'Notorious' State Prison Unit Will Close

The Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman faced scrutiny after nine inmate deaths in a month. Governor Tate Reeves announced the closure of Unit 29, emphasizing the need for trust in the prison system. An inspection report highlighted poor conditions, leading to a lawsuit filed by inmates with support from Jay-Z. The lawsuit claims inhumane and unconstitutional conditions, prompting further legal and administrative actions.

What prompted Governor Tate Reeves to announce the closure of Unit 29?

• A budget cut in the state

• A request from the corrections officers

• A new policy on prison reform

• The deaths of nine prisoners within a month

What did the State Department of Health's inspection report reveal about Unit 29?

• It was the most secure unit in the prison

• It had missing lights, mattresses, and holes in the walls

• It was overcrowded but well-maintained

• It had state-of-the-art facilities

Who filed the lawsuit on behalf of the Mississippi inmates?

• The State Department of Health

• Governor Tate Reeves

• A lawyer for rapper Jay-Z

• A local attorney

What was the main criticism in the letter sent by Jay-Z's lawyer?

• The prisons were too lenient

• The conditions were inhumane and unconstitutional

• The staff was too strict

• The prisons were overfunded

What action did Corrections Department Commissioner Policia Hull take following the criticism?

• She ignored the criticism

• She implemented new policies

• She resigned from her position

• She increased prison funding