9 Documentaries That Investigate the Business of Private Prisons
A Deep Dive into a Controversial Industry
Private prisons have become a significant and controversial part of the criminal justice system. These for-profit institutions raise questions about ethics, costs, and outcomes compared to public corrections facilities. The investigation of this business model through documentaries provides a deeper understanding of its impact on society, inmates, and the economy.
Viewers seeking to explore the complex world of private prisons will find these documentaries pivotal in revealing the multi-faceted issues within the system. The films range from undercover investigations to in-depth analyses, offering a comprehensive look at how profit motives can influence prison management, inmate treatment, and public policy decisions.
1) 13th (2016)
Ava DuVernay's documentary "13th" offers a thorough examination of the prison-industrial complex in the United States. The film focuses on the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery but allowed for involuntary servitude as a punishment for crime. This loophole has led to mass incarceration, disproportionately affecting African Americans.
DuVernay scrutinizes the role of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) and private prisons in perpetuating mass incarceration. The documentary highlights how legislation like three strikes and mandatory minimums have contributed to the prison population explosion.
"13th" was notable for being the first documentary to open the New York Film Festival, showcasing its critical acclaim and significance. The film delves into the historical context of racial inequality and its ties to the current justice system, providing a comprehensive look at the intersection of race and incarceration.
For more information on "13th," visit the Wikipedia page.
2) The House I Live In (2012)
"The House I Live In" is directed by Eugene Jarecki. This documentary provides a critical look at America’s war on drugs. It highlights the impacts of drug-related policies on various groups, from street-level dealers to law enforcement and judiciary officials.
The film features interviews with figures such as David Simon and William Julius Wilson. It explores the profound human rights implications linked to U.S. drug policy. It argues the war on drugs has largely been ineffective, leading to numerous arrests and significant government expenditure.
With an insightful narrative, the documentary has received positive reviews from critics. It holds a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Roger Ebert praised it for its compelling case against the war on drugs.
For more information about "The House I Live In," visit the IMDB page.
3) Kids for Cash (2013)
"Kids for Cash" is a documentary that investigates the infamous scandal involving judicial kickbacks in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania.
In 2008, judges Michael Conahan and Mark Ciavarella were found guilty of accepting payments in exchange for sentencing numerous juveniles to private detention facilities. This increased occupancy and profits for the privately-run prisons.
The film showcases how these unethical practices led to harsh sentences for minor offenses. Many young individuals were sent to detention centers when probation or less severe penalties would have sufficed.
The documentary aims to expose the corruption and encourage reform in the juvenile justice system. With real-life testimonies, it sheds light on the devastating impact on the lives of affected youths and their families.
For more information, you can visit Wikipedia or IMDB.
4) The Prison in Twelve Landscapes (2016)
The Prison in Twelve Landscapes, directed by Brett Story, provides an insightful look into the effects of the prison-industrial complex in the United States. The documentary examines how prisons shape multiple aspects of American life through twelve distinct vignettes.
One vignette focuses on a former industrial town in Kentucky that now relies on a federal penitentiary for employment. This shift reveals how local economies can become dependent on the prison system.
Another segment highlights female prisoners in California who fight wildfires, showcasing how incarcerated individuals are integrated into state labor systems. This underscores the intersections between incarceration and labor exploitation.
The film also explores a Bronx warehouse that specializes in prison-approved care packages. These vignettes collectively reveal the unseen connections and influences of prisons on communities and industries.
Story's work steps outside the conventional approach to documentary filmmaking by opting to explore prisons' indirect impacts. The film’s unconventional narrative structure provides a broader view of the carceral state's reach.
For more information on The Prison in Twelve Landscapes, visit Wikipedia.
5) The Sentence (2018)
Directed by Rudy Valdez, The Sentence examines the impact of mandatory minimum sentencing on families through a personal lens.
The documentary follows the story of Valdez's sister, Cindy Shank, who receives a 15-year federal prison sentence for her minor role in a drug ring.
It captures the emotional toll on Cindy’s three young daughters and documents the family's fight for her early release.
Valdez’s film highlights the broader issues of sentencing reform and the human cost of America's harsh sentencing laws.
Viewers gain insight into the complexities and failings of the justice system, particularly how it affects women and children.
6) Out of Mind, Out of Sight (2014)
"Out of Mind, Out of Sight" is a Canadian documentary directed by John Kastner.
The film explores the lives of four residents at the Brockville Mental Health Centre, a forensic psychiatric hospital. These individuals have committed violent crimes but are not deemed criminally responsible due to mental illness.
Kastner gives a deep look into the intricacies of mental health within the prison system.
Viewers are introduced to the day-to-day experiences of these patients, highlighting their struggles and efforts to regain control over their lives. This film sheds light on the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system.
By focusing on both patients and staff, the documentary captures the complex reality of institutional life. It raises important questions about the treatment and societal perception of individuals who have committed crimes but suffer from severe mental health issues.
More information about "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" is available on its Wikipedia page.
7) The New Black
"The New Black" is a popular TV series known for its dramatized portrayal of life in a women's prison. Although it's not a documentary, it provides a narrative that touches on the complexities of the prison system.
While many viewers are aware of its fictional nature, it's important to note the show's creative liberties.
During its run, "The New Black" has prompted discussions about real-world prison conditions and the experiences of inmates. However, when it comes to factual representation, it's wise to consult documentaries like "Locked Up In America" or "Prison Valley" for accurate details.
For those solely exposed to the prison industrial complex through "The New Black," continually checking credible sources is crucial. It ensures their understanding of the industry remains well-rounded and informed.
For more on "The New Black," visit its Wikipedia page. (2013)
8) The Farm: Angola, USA (1998)
"The Farm: Angola, USA" is an award-winning documentary set in the Louisiana State Penitentiary, also known as Angola Prison. This institution is the largest maximum-security prison in the USA.
Directed by Jonathan Stack and Liz Garbus, the film features stories from both inmates and guards, offering a raw glimpse into prison life.
The documentary draws from articles published in "Life Sentences," a series from the prison magazine, The Angolite. Wilbert Rideau, a life prisoner and the magazine's editor, contributed to the project.
Angola Prison has earned a notorious reputation, often dubbed "The Alcatraz of the South." It's where some of the most dangerous criminals in the country are confined.
The film highlights the harsh realities inmates face, including the near certainty of dying within its walls. Approximately 85 percent of inmates never leave the prison alive.
Further details can be found on Wikipedia.
9) Louis Theroux: Behind Bars (2008)
Louis Theroux: Behind Bars is a documentary that takes viewers into San Quentin State Prison, one of the United States' most notorious prisons. Theroux, known for his immersive and often challenging explorations, interacts with inmates and guards.
In the film, Theroux engages with serial murderers and gang members, providing a rare glimpse into their lives behind bars.
The documentary highlights the daily struggles and complex social dynamics within the prison. Theroux's conversations reveal the harsh realities faced by the inmates, including violence, mental health issues, and the pervasive influence of prison gangs.
Directed by Stuart Cabb, the film was first aired on BBC Two on January 13, 2008. It offers a candid look at the relationships and hierarchies that exist within the prison walls.
Theroux’s approach, characterized by his calm demeanor and straightforward questions, allows for striking revelations from the inmates and staff.
For more information, please visit the Wikipedia page.
The Rise of Private Prisons
The rise of private prisons is a complex topic involving historical developments, legislative changes, and the influence of major corporations. This section explores the origins, legal landscape, and major entities driving the industry.
Historical Context
The concept of private prisons emerged in the early 1980s. The Corrections Corporation of America (CCA), now known as CoreCivic, was pivotal in pioneering privatized incarceration. By treating prisons as business ventures, companies sought profitability in managing facilities.
The 1980s saw a surge in crime rates and a corresponding increase in prison populations. This climate created an opportunity for private companies to offer cost-saving solutions for managing the burgeoning inmate numbers.
Local and federal governments, overwhelmed by the expense and management challenges, started outsourcing prison operations. This marked the beginning of what would become a significant shift in the penal system, embedding private entities firmly into the fabric of the U.S. correctional landscape.
Legislation and Policies
Legislation and policies have significantly shaped the private prison industry. The 1980s and 1990s introduced tougher sentencing laws, such as the "War on Drugs" and "Three-Strikes" policies, which led to massive incarceration rates.
These policies promoted the expansion of the prison-industrial complex, as governments struggled to cope with the influx of inmates. The Prison Industry Enhancement Certification Program (PIECP), enacted in 1979, played a crucial role by allowing private companies to employ inmates.
Contracts between private prison companies and government entities often promise cost-efficiency, better management, and enhanced facilities. Despite various criticisms, these agreements remain a backbone of the industry, driving the proliferation of privatized incarceration.
Key Players in the Industry
Several corporations dominate the private prison industry. CoreCivic and GEO Group are the largest players in the U.S., managing numerous facilities across states. These companies operate primarily through contracts with federal and state governments.
G4S, a British multinational, runs significant operations in countries like South Africa, including the Mangaung Correctional Centre.
Other notable entities include Management & Training Corporation (MTC) and LaSalle Corrections, which also provide extensive inmate management services. Their influence extends beyond just managing facilities; they often engage in lobbying efforts to shape policies favorable to their interests.
Economic Impact of Private Prisons
Private prisons have been a topic of debate due to their significant economic implications. These facilities affect government expenditures, profit margins, and local economies in various ways.
Cost Analysis
Private prisons claim to reduce government costs. They operate on contracts that typically stipulate fixed daily rates per inmate. However, numerous studies question these purported savings.
Per Diem Rates and Budget Allocation:
State Per Diem Rate (USD) Texas 45-50 California 55-60 Florida 48-52
While per diem rates seem lower, hidden costs often surface. These include oversight expenses and potential legal fees from lawsuits concerning treatment and conditions. Reduced staffing levels and cutbacks in programs to lower expenses can also contribute to long-term societal costs, including higher recidivism rates.
Profit Margins
Private prison companies, such as CoreCivic and GEO Group, report significant profits, primarily driven by cost-cutting measures and contractual guarantees.
Financial Highlights:
CoreCivic’s operating revenue was reported at $1.98 billion.
GEO Group’s revenue was approximately $2.3 billion.
These companies benefit from economies of scale, reducing operational costs. They often cut expenses through lower wages for workers, minimal investment in rehabilitation programs, and reduced standards of living for inmates. Critics argue these profit-maximizing strategies compromise inmate welfare and rehabilitation efforts, questioning the ethical implications of profiting from incarceration.
Local Economies
Private prisons can inject much-needed economic activity into struggling rural areas by providing jobs and local business opportunities.
Economic Contribution:
Job Creation: Guards, administrative staff, maintenance workers.
Services: Local businesses supplying food, utilities, and maintenance services.
Despite these benefits, there are drawbacks. The reliance on prison jobs can create economic dependency, discouraging diversification and sustainable development. Additionally, the presence of a prison can affect property values and community perception, sometimes leading to negative stigma and reduced community cohesion. The net economic impact is thus a complex balance between job creation and potential long-term socio-economic costs.
These elements reveal a multifaceted economic footprint of private prisons, where cost-effectiveness for governments and profitability for companies must be weighed against broader societal impacts.
