Georgia’s Public Defender says overcrowding, poor conditions, and mistreatment continue to be major problems in the country’s penitentiary system.
Further, Georgia’s prisons still hold accused and convicted people together in the same cells. Many prisoners spend long periods in de-escalation rooms or solitary confinement, which the Public Defender says amounts to “cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment.”
During visits, some prisoners reported “shouting, rude and humiliating treatment, and threats from staff.” The report also highlights informal governance, problems with healthcare, and shortages of medical personnel. Some prisoners said they had to wait a month or more for medical care. Nutrition in prisons also remains a serious challenge.
The 428-page report covers a wide range of issues, including illegal arrests, impunity for violent law enforcement officers, mistreatment of detained activists, femicide, education problems, and other human rights concerns.
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