Because Freedom Can't Protect Itself

Cruel and Unusual Punishment

Idaho inmates & IDOC – Due to overcrowding in our state prisons, IDOC is currently housing about 400 Idaho inmates in Texas under a contract with a private prison operator and Dickens County, Texas. We have received several complaints reporting that conditions in this Texas facility do not meet the required standards of treatment and inmates are unfairly suffering.  The ACLU of Idaho is continuing to gather information about these reports and is considering options for legal action.       

Idaho inmates & IDOC – The ACLU is currently evaluating legal action to address concerns about mentally ill inmates who reportedly are not receiving adequate treatment in Idaho's prisons.  Litigation against IDOC brought under the Eighth Amendment and the Americans with Disabilities Act could lead to improved prison conditions and better mental health care for many suffering inmates. 

Does & Roes & Idaho County Jails – In 2004 and 2005 we successfully intervened on behalf of county inmates who were denied necessary psychotropic medications. After a quick phone call from the ACLU, the jails provided the inmates their medications.  

Idaho inmates & IDOC  – We receive numerous complaints from inmates who report various health problems and lack of proper medical attention in Idaho’s jails and prisons. We are able to assist some inmates by contacting corrections officials to request immediate action.  For example, one inmate reported chronic, painful digestive problems and difficulties obtaining the needed prescription.  After the ACLU contacted the Idaho Department of Corrections, the inmate was immediately scheduled for an endoscopy exam and placed on the requested medication.