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For the next four months, I lived the life of a common prisoner.
We were awakened at 5 am and taken to work, assembling brakes for Fiat cars.
The work was grueling. In three days, all my fingernails were broken, and
my hands were filthy black like an auto mechanic.
(Left- Lisa listens as the warden explains the rules, before giving
her her haircut) |
 |
When we weren't working or eating, we were confined to our cells.
Most of that time was spent by myself, as Gina was always being taken for
"special work." Finally, on a cold February morning, with my sentence for
"prostitution" complete, I was released. Before my release, I was handed
a large manila envelope containing my purse and all the belongings I brought
with me- nothing was missing. |
 |
I found out that the cameras I had planted had worked perfectly,
but the warden had not made any sexual advances to any of the incoming prisoners.
All we had was four months of surveillance footage of the warden's office,
including footage of all the "intake interviews," including haircuts, of
the incoming prisoners. |
 |
Our investigation also failed to reveal any evidence of beatings
or theft.
We did find out about the harsh treatment of prisoners returning to
the prison for a second term. |
 |
We presented our evidence to the Director of Prisons. He said, "We
have no choice but to deal harshly with prisoners coming through the system
the second time." |
 |
He also recommended that several changes be made in the operations
of Via Di Reforma. |
 |
Here is a list of the new procedures at the prison: |
 |
1. Prisoners will no longer be handed scissors and will not be made
to cut their own hair. The scissors could be used on the warden or guard
as a weapon.
(Left- Luisa sits quietly, knowing her hair is about to be cut off) |
 |
2. All belongings will be confiscated from incoming prisoners before
they get off the bus (to prevent having another reporter "plant" cameras
in the prison). |
 |
3. All prisoners shall be given "standard" haircuts upon entering
the prison- the hair will be cut with clippers, and be no longer than 1
centimeter in length all over. |
 |
4. No prisoner shall be forced to use a personal item, such as a toothbrush,
to perform cleaning duties in any part of the prison facility. This is considered
cruel and unusual punishment.
(Left- Luisa is forced to cut Lola's hair. They were both convicted
of conspiracy to smuggle drugs into the country. Lola, a second time offender,
is clipped to the scalp by a distraught Luisa.) |
 |
How has my time in Via Di Reforma changed me? |
 |
Aside from the obvious (my hair being short) I learned how terrifying
it is to be locked up in a place where others have complete power over you
and what you do. |
 |
I think each night about the women in the prison, and I pray for
them. And Gina, if you're reading this, I hope you make it out of Via Di
Reforma, and never go back.
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