Visiting Hours: Hugs and Heartaches

Voices Unlocked

A simple hug can make a world of difference for someone behind bars. Join us as we sit down with Gene Downing, a former prisoner-turned-advocate, and Robert Barton, co-founder of More Than Our Crimes, to discuss the emotional and logistical labyrinth of prison visits. Gene shares his most traumatic memory of the power correctional officers wield over family connections: the day his daughter was turned away from a highly anticipated visit. And Rob takes us deeper into the heartache and hope that accompany the rare moments of physical touch with loved ones.
Picture this: A family travels hundreds of miles, enduring financial strain and struggles to comply with the strict dress code, only to face the crushing disappointment of a canceled visit due to constant threat of a "lockdown." We share how the system's failures and oversights add to the emotional toll on both prisoners and their families. Through their stories, we explore the stringent security measures, from underwire bras triggering alarms to invasive searches, and question the necessity and ethics of these practices.
This episode offers ad eye-opening explanation of the struggles surrounding prison visits, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms that prioritize social ties and the psychological well-being of adults in custody and their families. Listen in and join the call for a more compassionate approach to criminal justice.

Follow this podcast so you'll be informed when new episodes are uploaded (twice a month). Meanwhile, read more stories and learn how you can contribute to reform; visit MoreThanOurCrimes.

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1. Visiting Hours: Hugs and Heartaches (00:00:00)

2. The Importance of Prison Visits (00:00:11)

3. Navigating Prison Visits (00:08:15)

4. Visiting Prisons (00:16:16)

5. Body Searches and Strip Procedures (00:30:53)

6. Unnecessary and Traumatizing Prison Procedures (00:41:49)

7. Prison Procedures and Retaliation Risks (00:49:41)