Judge Orders Continued Monitoring of California Federal Prison Closure Due to Poor Planning

In a shocking turn of events, U.S. District Court Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers criticized the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) for its decision to close FCI Dublin, a troubled prison in California where female inmates suffered sexual abuse by guards. The judge described the closure plan as “ill-conceived” and full of holes, raising serious concerns for the well-being of over 600 women who were transferred to other federal facilities across the country.

Gonzalez Rogers ordered close monitoring and care for the incarcerated women, demanding weekly status updates on each transfer and monthly reports on staffing, mental health, and medical care. This comes after members of the Senate Judiciary Committee expressed concerns over a chaotic transfer process where inmates reportedly faced mistreatment, harassment, neglect, and abuse while in transit.

The closure of FCI Dublin follows a 2021 Associated Press investigation that exposed a “rape club” culture at the prison, with a history of abuse and mismanagement. Despite promises from the bureau to improve the environment, the decision to shut down the facility signifies a failure in reform efforts.

The BOP defended its closure plan, stating that it was carefully considered and aimed to ensure the safe transfer of women with special attention to their unique needs. However, Gonzalez Rogers denied a recent motion by the BOP questioning the authority of the special master and scheduled a hearing on the matter for May 16.

The ongoing legal battle highlights the challenges faced by incarcerated women and the need for accountability and reform within the prison system.