Lockdowns, Overtime, and Unmet Needs: Why we must solve the current prison staffing crisis

Ensuring the safe and secure operation of Illinois’ prisons is a critical state function, yet the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) is facing a chronic staffing shortage that jeopardizes the health, safety, and well-being of staff and incarcerated people. The purpose of this report is to document the nature and scope of staffing shortages in Illinois’ prisons, detail the harms to incarcerated people and staff, and make recommendations for urgent and vital action to address the identified challenges. (Oct 2024)

Rebecca PellegrinoOctober 21, 20242024

Communication Impacts People in IDOC and Their Support Systems: Changes are needed to improve outcomes and daily living

Regular communication with the outside world is vital to people in custody. Methods of communication such as phones, mail, video visits, and email via tablets allow incarcerated people to stay in touch with loved ones, access information related to their legal rights, and prepare for their lives after prison. Therefore, it is crucial that prisons provide reliable methods of communication to those in custody. (February 2024)

Rebecca PellegrinoFebruary 14, 20242024

JHA 2023 Annual Report

What does it mean to have impact as an oversight organization, and how do we effect change as prison monitors? In 2023, we did this by doing what we have done for 122 years – witnessing firsthand and sharing out the realities of our prisons, and pushing for changes that improve lives, increase system effectiveness, and better use of limited resources.