Rising Times Column - Prison Life Q&A

Warm Greetings!

I received a request that I write about what daily life is like in prison. The following is an interview I did for  Rising Times about 4 or 5 years ago. A few things have changed a little, but most things are what they are, around here. I hope it answers some of your questions. 

               Be gentle with yourself,

                               Arnie King

                         * * * * * * *

Do you think being in jail has changed the way you look at life?

I have been in prison since 1971 for the death of John Labanara. As an 18 year old my view of life differed from the almost 50 year old mature, responsible person I am today. Basically, I grew up in prison and in spite of the oppressive, humiliating experience of the institution I have become a better person. Imprisonment is certainly not responsible for a positive attitude and good self esteem. My world view has evolved through interaction with family and friends, and a spiritual connection with God. Prison is full of restrictions and deprivation and I don't want to observe life through those lenses.

If there was one thing you could change about the penal system, what would it be?

The penal system is supposed to prepare the individual to return to society as a productive citizen, a contributor to the community. Some people lack the skills/resources to function in society without violating norms and laws. Over 80 percent of prisoners have an alcoholic or drug problem and never finished high school. A thousand drinks/drugs is not enough, while one is too many. He/she doesn't know. He/she doesn't know. Therefore, a big change could be to provide education -- social, emotional and academic -- to improve the behavior of human beings. Sociologists report very few college graduates return to the prison and the success of recovery programs (i.e. Alcoholics Anonymous) is widely acclaimed. However, in the past decade, such programs have diminished or been eliminated.

Do you think that the punishment you are receiving is fair?

About 28 years ago, I was responsible for the death of another human being. I regretted the accident then and continue to seek forgiveness and atonement. Such attitude will be maintained in prison or upon release. To keep me in prison due to this 1971 act is not fair because I'm being judged by the offense, just like in the court house again, and not as the individual I have become. If the view can't include any accomplishments, new skills, relationships or community responsibilities, in addition to recognizing the reckless behavior that lead to the death, and various preventive measures, then imprisonment will continue to be unfair. How long must I be a teenage-killer? Opportunities have to be available for one to exhibit the change. It is unfair when access to such opportunities is non existent.

How much contact do you have with the outside world? Do you want more?

My primary contact with society is through the media (newspaper, television and radio) and weekly visits with family and friends. I try to read the major dailies and community weeklies, while observing the regular news broadcasts and talk shows. Program volunteers attend regular meetings (Fellowship, AA, Church, etc.) and try to bridge the gap between the prison and the street. Such interaction is quite restrictive and limited. Through Barbed Wire is a project to establish communications with students and at-risk youth in an effort to share another voice of a human being on this side of the perimeter. By presenting this perspective to one or twenty-one, either verbally or written, I hope to prevent anyone from making mistakes at an early age, as in my example. I encourage people to read my writings and make inquiries for further dialogue.

Is it a myth about people who go to jail ending up being raped whether male or female? Does it have to do with power?

Rape is a horrible crime, whether it happens in prison or in a park, and the victim is male or female. The scenario in the cell block is vicious because of the close quarters and word travels quickly. An individual is overpowered by one or more prisoners and is sexually assaulted. There are several responses for the victim -- to retaliate immediately with violence; to remove one's self from the specific area; to remain and hope it doesn't happen again. Prison rape doesn't happen as often as the media portrays, but it does occur. It is more about power than sexual preference, and to humiliate the victim. Most prison rapes are unreported, even though it may be widely circulating through the grapevine

What do you miss the most from being in prison?

I miss being relaxed. I am always being observed by the authorities and my peers. High power cameras, as well as human beings are in strategic locations to monitor my movement at all times. I feel like I'm being constantly watched and I really miss the peace and serenity of not being in a fishbowl. I miss the comradeship and intimacy of family and friends; to be able to appreciate the giving and receiving without conditions. I miss being unable to share an experience with another, such as preparing for a trip, walking around the lake, or pushing a food cart in the supermarket. I miss being natural because I can't act normal in an abnormal environment.

How are you treated by the guards?

This is a very good question because treatment will vary from day to day and from different guards. The same guard with a pleasant attitude today may provoke you to assault him tomorrow. They are here to keep me from leaving this place. Some are simply working an 8 hour shift, while others try to abuse and torment the prisoner. It is in the best interest of the guard for the prisoner to fail upon release and to function inappropriately in society. A huge prison population is job security for the guard.

What are some of the differences between real prison and the dramatization of prison life on TV and in films?

The prison experience is not meant for entertainment and it's regrettable that the Hollywood movie industry would exploit the pain and suffering of human beings. Denzel Washington was excellent in the portrayal of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, but he is incapable of sharing the impact that years of separate confinement have upon the mind, body and soul. The feeling of powerlessness has to be challenged every day or one becomes like the older gentleman (librarian) in Shawshank Redemption, who returns to the community unable to function. 95% of the incarcerated human beings will eventually be released and most prisoners return to the prison system within 3 years unless a release plan (education, job opportunity, housing, community ties, etc.) is available. I believe the TV and film industry should promote factors, which result in a successful re-entry into the community.

Prison life must never be glorified because there is nothing wonderful and exciting about the actual experience. "American Me" is an excellent portrayal of gang violence in a prison setting. Instead of promoting gang life, it would be great to see the transformation of a high school drop-out into a college graduate and then return to the community to work with at-risk youth. Where are the success stories and what obstacles are in the pathways?

The average Hollywood movie runs from 2 to 3 hours. Prison sentences last for 2 to 3 decades. It is very difficult to condense a lengthy history of pain, suffering, and death into a video-tape cassette. For example, no movie has depicted that most prisoners don't receive regular visits or letters from family and friends. Real prison is loneliness and being unable to make daily decisions. Real prison is to be hungry and viewed suspiciously most of the time. Real prison is to be subjected to immediate transfer to a new location without prior consultation. An actor will apologize for a wrongful deed and all is forgiven. But victims are reluctant to forgive violent offenders and often question the sincerity of remorseful overtures.

What is the social structure among inmates and how does that play out in everyday life?

There are many different types of human beings existing in this highly structured abnormal environment of concrete and steel. As convicted felons enter the prison system, they bring cultural bias, prejudices, and the willingness to stigmatize against other individuals or segments of the community. In an institutional setting such negativity breeds tension, hostility and despair among the populace, which encourages labeling and placement in various categories. The more affectionate names are player, mack, stand-up and thoroughbred; while the derogatory list included snitch, punk and batty boy.

The hierarchy of the social structure within the prison system will be top-heavy with lifers, or those who have been confined for a long time, is resourceful and respected by peers, and possess skills to influence across racial lines. At the bottom of the social ladder will be child molesters, sex offenders and known informants. Between these extremes will be robbers, drug dealers and addicts, burglars and the gamut of common criminals. The status of the individual may be enhanced by an extensive record, the amount of money (robbery) or drugs (distribution) in the particular case and a significant affiliation with a crew or gang. The pecking order influences the prison job, housing unit and where one eats in the dining room.

What should be done about prisons? Would you favor their reform or their abolition?

Prisons have become an industry and the bottom line is profit. The construction of super-maximum prisons is a national priority, although statistics reveal human beings released from 24 hour locked-down units are less likely to function appropriately in a community setting. But federal funding is designated for the building of highly secure prisons instead of half-way houses and community programs, which has very low recidivism.

Prisons replaced slavery. The abolition of slavery (chattel) preceded the imposition of barbed wire around the plantation, with race continuing to be a major factor in determining the subject. The southern prisons of Angola (Louisiana), Tucker Farms (Arkansas), Parchman Farms (Mississippi), and Raiford (Florida), are examples of "plantation penitentiary", where slave-like conditions continue to exist. Prisoners work long hours for no money in fields and factories, then upon release, they are unable to acquire decent employment or housing. In fact, a growing number of former offenders are within the unemployed and homeless population.

The abolition of prisons should be the goal because crime would be eventually eliminated. No prisons, no crime! No crime, no prisons! Penal reforms may be necessary during the interim, such as college education, furloughs, substance abuse treatment, vocational training, etc. as well as a moratorium on death penalty executions and the construction of maximum security prisons. These policies can be implemented now.

What do you think about the Governor's proposal to have prisoners work for private industries and be entitled to unemployment payments upon their release?

The 13th Amendment reads "Neither slavery not involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction." Prison slavery replaced chattel slavery with the passage of this amendment and southern plantations transformed into prison farms. There are now 2 million human beings in US prisons, with several million others under parole/probation and restraints. As the poverty level rises, the prison population will increase. Because the majority of crime is related to "profit", prisons are full of poor, uneducated souls and many were unemployed prior to their arrest and conviction. As we know, prison construction financing has increased, while funding for low-income housing has decreased. A large percentage of the homeless population are ex offenders. The choice (for many) may be either the cell block or the side walk.

Are these prison jobs available, upon release to the community, with wages and benefits consistent with societal levels? Private companies enter into contractual agreements with the state government and employ a small workforce during the initial phase. As more prisoners are hired and trained, increased production translates into more profit because of low or no wages, very little overhead costs, and incentive laden tax breaks. The company will eventually shift the business focus towards the prison setting and workers will face layoffs in the city, while prisoners are coerced into job assignments by the authorities. The former US sweat shops in Mexico will be attracted to the prisons, due to the profit margin. Governor Cellucci's proposal is not in the best interest of the working class community. Why are private industry efforts acceptable in US prisons, but items made in Russian and Chinese prisons are boycotted?

The following question was taken from an AFSCME (labor) brochure. "Are we so deeply in the thrall of private enterprise that we are prepared to parcel out opportunities to some of our citizens to reap profit from the punishment of others?" With the primary motive of profit through barbed wire, executives of AT&T, RCA, Corrections Corporations of America, Bechtel and Wackenhut would be reluctant to advocate parole or commutation of sentences for the prisoner/worker.

What do you think about people finding God in prison? How common is it?

If there is any place that God needs to be, it is inside the prison system. Most people enter prison feeling rejected by society, family and friends, with very low self esteem. The degree of civilization in the world community is reflected by the treatment of citizens including ourselves. God has always represented the good of the society and the image and example of God has made a big difference in the lives of many prisoners. Abandoned, isolated and feeling hopeless, God may be the only companion accessible for the prisoner to trust inside the abnormal environment.

It is very common for a prisoner to seek solace, atonement and forgiveness through religion for such wrongs against society. The major religions (Protestant, Catholic, Islam and Judaism) are practiced in the prison setting and God influences other programs and activities. For example, in Alcoholics Anonymous, the higher power is utilized to "restore one to sanity" in the battle against the disease of alcoholism. This concept has been very effective and the "Twelve Steps" component is widely acclaimed in the treatment of substance abuse. After everything else has failed, why not try God? In addition to college education, furloughs and a network of family and friends, faith in God has been a positive factor in a successful re-entry program from prison. If God influences a healthy change in a person, from a criminal to a responsible being, then we should be grateful.

You seem to have such a positive outlook. How do you maintain it?

I left the streets as a teenager and have been forced to wake up every morning in a prison setting. At first, I was very angry at myself for my behavior which led to the killing of John Labanara. I was angry at the criminal justice system for the suppression of favorable evidence and manipulation of the legal process that resulted in the overcharging and conviction of first degree murder. I was angry at the prison/parole authorities, intent upon keeping me in custody for the remainder of my life. I will have been in prison for 29 years by the fall of this year.

After the spiritual awakening, which included addressing the drug and alcohol issue, I began to feel like I was a soul worth saving. I forgave myself for the responsibility in the death of another human being. As family members and friends believed in my value as a person, they forgave me for the previous reckless behavior and encouraged greater pursuit of personal development. Many people assisted me along the journey. As an act of gratitude, it became important for me to help others. Someone told me, "freely you have received, so freely ye give." I believe that I acquired this positive outlook by studying and observing the example of others, both past and present. One of the important lessons for me is to practice patience, utilize my skills and recognize available options. A Jamaica Plain minister shared this with me and she wanted me to pass it along:

Think Positive

If you think you are beaten, you are
If you think you dare not, you don't
Success begins with your own will…
It's all your state of mind
Life's battles are not won by those
who are stronger or fast.
Sooner or later the person who wins
is the person who thinks he can.

(Author Unknown)


Let's keep the positive vibes flowing because we can make a difference in the lives of others.

Are there conjugal visits in Massachusetts' prisons? If not, do you think there should be?

There have never been conjugal visits in Massachusetts' prisons. The state legislature approved Chapter 777 in 1972 which allowed convicted felons access to multiple rehabilitative program activities, including furloughs. Participants were eligible for up to 14 days (24 hours X 14) every twelve month cycle to be away from the prison with family members and friends. Due to the Willie Horton hysteria during the Dukakis presidential campaign, the furlough program was cancelled and lifers were returned to medium and maximum security prisons in 1987.

In the state of New York and Connecticut there are trailers on the grounds of several prisons. A requirement is that prisoners must be married to share holidays and weekends with a significant partner and/or family. This program is viewed as an alternative to furloughs, although the prisoner is better able to maintain community ties upon temporary release for a specified period. The conjugal visits will allow prisoners to share tender moments with the significant partner, who is always a valuable player throughout the incarceration and during the transition - from prison to community - period.

How big is your cell? How much can you move around outside your cell?

My current cell is approximately 8 X 10. The typical single cell in most prisons is 6 X 8. The state provides a bed, table, chair, locker, and a few shelves, lights and a window. The door is never locked because I must have access to use a community bathroom located at the end of the hallway. The major counts are at 7:00 am, 11:30 am, 5:00 pm and 9:30 pm. Everybody must be standing inside the cell and an officer walks around counting the prisoners. After 9:30 pm the only reason to leave the cell is to use the bathroom until the 7:00 am count is completed.

With the exception of major counts, I am able to leave the cell area from 7:00 am until 9:30 pm. I can go to the yard, gym, library, day rooms, school, programs, church, visits, work or to the cafeteria during meal times. Most of my time is spent in the cell reading, writing, watching TV, listening to the radio, eating, cooking, praying, meditating and sleeping.

My schedule and activities would change a little in a different prison. For example, at MCI-Norfolk, new prisoners must reside in 50 men dormitories and there are two, three and four men cells.

How much respect does a prisoner receive from guards, generally speaking?

There is an imbalance in the dynamics of the prisoner-guard interaction. Often times, the authority of the prison guard is verbal as well as visible. The physical structure and operation of the institution establishes a lack of regard for the convicted felon. Some examples are the locked doors and gates, security cameras, movement schedules, and a variety of restrictions. The maneuvers of the tactical team display a show of force in an unhealthy way.

Prison management should not encourage disrespectful practices towards the captives. Most high security units rule by fear and intimidation. Guards are trained to be hostile towards human beings and rookies arrive at the prison site in a confused manner. Why should I hate this guy? Is it necessary to be skeptical or abusive?

In this environment, the individual must earn the respect of the next person. Fear and hatred is responsible for a lot of prison violence. There must be some sort of acceptance, though not admiration, among human beings and those in authority have to curtail abuse of discretionary powers. Prison guards receive some type of perverted pleasure in forcing men to strip naked. A hand frisk (pat down) reveals contraband. Removal of clothes is psychological abuse.

How easy is it to get contraband inside the prison?

The primary route of contraband into the prison is via its employees. Family members and friends of prisoners are subjected to thorough examinations prior to being allowed to enter the visiting center. Prior to entering the visit center and immediately upon exiting the area, prisoners are searched for contraband. In most institutions, a prisoner is not allowed to bring any material into the visiting center, except a hair comb, a handkerchief and the identification card. The explanation for a higher incidence of contraband being intercepted from prisoners leaving the visiting room is because of the intensive search. Thus, contraband is allegedly introduced to the prisoners by family members and friends.

However, state employees are not subjected to these same standards. They are able to flow into and out of the facility without being searched and typically never suspected of handling contraband, which includes alcohol, drugs, weapons, cigarettes, etc. Getting into prison is a lot easier than getting out.

Do prisons in Massachusetts have drug treatment programs? Do they work?

Drug treatment programs are not a priority in the prison system. Due to the publicity on Question 8 (treatment vs. punishment) and recent estimates of 85% convicted felons with substance-abuse issues, the Department of Correction policy may change. At this time, Chemical Recovery Academy (CRA) has a DOC multi million dollar contract to provide treatment services in a few major prisons. The major incentives are good-time deductions fro program attendance and recognition by the parole board that CRA is a legitimate treatment plan.

However, the CRA effort is not very effective. Alcoholics Anonymous is more successful in addressing substance abuse issues, without cost, days off the sentence or lengthy waiting lists. I do believe treatment is necessary and should be made available for the entire prison population, instead of up to 10%. Recovery works if you work at it.

What would be the first few things you would do if you were released tomorrow?

I would like to get together with my family and closest friends to share some good food, music and positive vibes. The people who have been present in my life, visited me in Massachusetts prisons, read my letters and written returns to me, and talked with me for over 30 years, need to feel my appreciation and gratitude. I would like to have some quality time in the sun around lots of water and away from razor wire and concrete.

What is the food like in prison?

Recently I was told by another prisoner who viewed food service numbers that the cost of daily feeding is approximately $.50 per person. This figure is less than $.17 each meal and will vary slightly, depending on the security level of the prison. The food served at this prison (Bay State) is better than average because it's a small population and the kitchen personnel are more experienced. Rice and pasta is served on a regular basis. Fruit is available often, while cooked vegetables and salad are also accessible.

Do you look forward to students coming to hear you speak? If so, why?

Community service has become a very significant part of my life and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my experience, strength and hope with teenagers. This is a volunteer project, without compensation or benefits from prison authorities, schools, or community agencies. The only incentive to tell strangers about personal behavior resulting in murder, robbery and assault is to possibly make amends or to prevent youth from repeating such mistakes. I always feel good when I realize that my presentation helped a student make an appropriate decision.

What is daily prison life like?

It depends on the security level of the prison. Half-way houses are level 1 category, while the sixth level are the maximum security prisons. There are typically 4 major counts (i.e. 7:00 am, 12:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 10:00 pm) and the serving of 3 meals daily in each facility. In the more secure prisons, movement activity is time designated and prisoners confined to segregation units rarely leave the cell. Bay State is a level 4 prison, with high-tech cameras, and the doors are never locked. Although major counts and control movement happen in most prisons, there are other aspects of prison life, which tends to be disruptive. Unlike most prisons, there is relatively no violence or drugs at Bay State. Still, prisons are designed to isolate folks from society, so feelings of loneliness and powerlessness are paramount in this environment. Prison life is brutal and tends to deprive convicted felons of opportunities to improve social skills.

What types of sexual activities occur in prison?

Masturbation is the primary sexual activity within the prison system. With the aid of a pornographic magazine or book, one may seek pleasure in a remote corner of the 6 X 8 cell or inside a toilet stall. Sexual interaction with another human being (same sex) usually takes place under the cover of darkness and such activity is mostly assumed than actually viewed. Any sexual activity is unauthorized and therefore a violation of the prison rules. It is illegal to have sex with yourself, another prisoner or with a member of the opposite gender, even though it may be consensual. Prison rape continues to happen, though reported less, depending on the security level of the facility.