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david r. foster

Invisible Scars: The Toll Of Imprisonment And Its Lifelong Impact

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Introduction

Imprisonment is a harsh reality for many, but its effects extend far beyond the prison walls. The psychological trauma endured during incarceration can have profound and lasting impacts on an individual’s mental health, life outcomes, and overall outlook on life. This blog explores these effects, supported by statistics from reputable government agencies, and underscores the urgent need for reform and support for those reentering society.

Mental Health Effects of Imprisonment

Imprisonment often exposes individuals to a range of stressors, including isolation, violence, murder, torture, and a lack of autonomy. These conditions can lead to various mental health issues, such as:

  1. Depression and Anxiety: According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than half of all prison and jail inmates in the U.S. have a mental health problem, with depression and anxiety being among the most common issues.
  2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that 21% of prisoners have experienced PTSD, stemming from traumatic events during incarceration.
  3. Substance Abuse Disorders: Many inmates struggle with substance abuse issues, which are often exacerbated by the prison environment. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that around 58% of state prisoners and 63% of sentenced jail inmates meet the criteria for drug dependence or abuse.

The Adverse Impact on Life Outcomes

The effects of imprisonment are not confined to the time spent behind bars. They extend into every aspect of an individual’s life post-release, influencing their social, economic, and psychological well-being.

  1. Employment and Income: Former inmates face significant barriers to employment. The Bureau of Justice Statistics indicates that two-thirds of released prisoners were not employed within five years of their release. Those who do find work often earn significantly less than their peers, perpetuating a cycle of poverty.
  2. Education: Imprisonment can disrupt educational pursuits. Data from the U.S. Department of Education shows that only 14% of prisoners have some college education, compared to 48% of the general population.
  3. Recidivism: Mental health issues and lack of support can lead to high recidivism rates. The National Institute of Justice reports that within five years of release, about 76.6% of released prisoners are rearrested.

My Personal Journey

As someone who has experienced the full brunt of the prison system, I can attest to the deep and lasting impacts it has on one’s mental health and overall life. My name is Ewing Redmond Samuels III. Born in Belize City, Belize, in 1978, I emigrated to the United States as a child and built a life there, only to have it upended by a wrongful and unlawful conviction. After serving 6.5 years in the Arizona Department of Corrections and additional time in federal custody, I was deported back to Belize in 2023.

The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) defines deportation or forcible transfer of a population as a crime against humanity. The ICC is located in The Hague and prosecutes individuals accused of crimes against humanity, which are serious violations committed against a civilian population. Deportation is defined as the displacement of people across an international border. Forcing people to leave their place of residence through expulsion or other coercive acts for reasons not permitted by international law could be a crime against humanity, a war crime, or both. The 15 forms of crimes against humanity listed in the Rome Statute include offences such as murder, rape, imprisonment, enforced disappearances, enslavement – particularly of women and children, sexual slavery, torture, apartheid and deportation.

Rome Statute of The International Criminal Court

Even though I now live in the paradise of the tropical Caribbean, the shadows of my incarceration linger. I struggle daily with a multitude of personal and professional challenges. The trauma has not only affected me but has also profoundly impacted my son, leaving us both grappling with lifelong scars.

Despite my 20 years of experience as a software engineer in Silicon Valley, and my extensive background as a business consultant and music and film producer, reintegration has been an uphill battle. The stigma of my past and the psychological toll of my experiences continue to pose significant hurdles.

Outlook on Life

The psychological toll of imprisonment can fundamentally alter an individual’s outlook on life. Feelings of hopelessness, mistrust, and social withdrawal are common among former inmates.

  1. Hopelessness and Despair: Prolonged exposure to the harsh conditions of prison life can lead to chronic feelings of hopelessness and despair, which can hinder reintegration efforts.
  2. Mistrust and Social Withdrawal: Many former inmates develop a deep-seated mistrust of others and often withdraw from social interactions. This isolation can prevent them from building the social support networks necessary for successful reintegration.
  3. Stigma and Discrimination: The stigma associated with a criminal record can lead to social and institutional discrimination, further alienating former inmates and diminishing their sense of self-worth.

The Need for Reform and Support

Addressing the mental health needs of inmates and providing comprehensive support post-release is crucial for improving life outcomes and reducing recidivism. Here are some steps that can make a difference:

  1. Mental Health Services: Increasing access to mental health services in prisons and jails can help mitigate some of the adverse effects of incarceration.
  2. Educational and Vocational Training: Providing inmates with educational and vocational training can improve their employment prospects post-release.
  3. Support Networks: Establishing robust support networks, including counseling, mentorship programs, and community support, can aid in the reintegration process.

Conclusion

The mental health effects of imprisonment are profound and far-reaching, influencing every aspect of an individual’s life post-release. By understanding these impacts and advocating for comprehensive reform and support, we can help former inmates rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society. I have seen more than I care to admit in the United States and the American criminal justice system, and now question the so called authorities in control of”law and order”.

Until Next Time…

I Am,

Ewing Redmond Samuels III

The Purpose of Government: Upholding Integrity in the Face of Corruption

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Introduction

As citizens, we entrust our governments with the solemn responsibility of safeguarding our rights, ensuring justice, and promoting the common good. However, what happens when those entrusted with power betray that trust? When corruption festers within the corridors of authority, it not only erodes the foundation of democracy but also undermines the very purpose of government itself.

The Core Purpose of Government

Throughout history, governments have been established to serve the people, to provide for their welfare, and to maintain order in society. The social contract between citizens and their government is based on the mutual understanding that power will be wielded responsibly and in the best interest of all.

The Impact of Corruption

Yet, when officials succumb to the temptations of corruption, when they prioritize personal gain over the well-being of their constituents, the fabric of society begins to unravel. Corruption breeds mistrust, cynicism, and disillusionment among the populace. It perpetuates inequality, stifles economic growth, and undermines the rule of law.

The Tactic of “Divide and Conquer”

Moreover, when corruption is allowed to thrive unchecked, it often employs the insidious tactic of “divide and conquer.” By pitting communities against each other, by sowing seeds of discord and resentment, corrupt officials seek to maintain their grip on power. They exploit divisions along lines of race, class, religion, or ideology, weakening the collective strength of the people.

Demanding Accountability and Transparency

In the face of such challenges, it falls upon the shoulders of conscientious citizens to demand accountability and transparency from their government. We must hold our elected representatives accountable for their actions, and we must insist on reforms that strengthen democratic institutions and root out corruption at all levels of government.

Upholding Values of Governance

Transparency, accountability, and integrity must be the guiding principles of governance. Only by upholding these values can governments fulfill their true purpose: to serve the people, protect their rights, and promote the common good.

A Case of Institutional Betrayal

Consider the recent case in Phoenix, where the former Maricopa County prosecutor, April Sponsel, falsely indicted innocent protesters with gang-related charges in 2020. This egregious abuse of power not only resulted in the wrongful persecution of individuals exercising their right to protest but also tarnished the reputation of the justice system.

Sponsel’s actions, characterized by a “disturbing pattern of excessive charging,” led to her dismissal from the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office in June of 2022. Her failure to review available evidence and her refusal to acknowledge any wrongdoing demonstrate a blatant disregard for justice and integrity. And yet, it was the Maricopa County Attorney Office who bred, nourished and trained her how to do what she was doing, until caught red-handed.

This is the same exact office that obtained an indictment, took me to trial and convicted me on hearsay, fabricated evidence, perjury, subornation, covered-up the kidnapping of my son, covered-up the murder of Royce Emmett Walker on May 21,2015, fraudulent concealment of impeachment and exculpatory evidence and deliberate and intentional violations of due process, and way too many to list here. People’s lives are being damaged by corrupt officials in the State of Arizona.

Where is the federal government in all of this when a state authority commits state abuse of power?

Below is an ORDER of what April Sponsel did and the “sanctions” delivered by the Judge:

sponsel-decision-and-order-imposing-sanctions-pdj-2023-9018Download

The suspension of Sponsel’s law license for at least two years is a testament to the far-reaching and deleterious consequences of her actions. As noted by the presiding judge, her misconduct damaged morale within the office and painted it as lacking integrity. This betrayal of trust not only undermines the public’s faith in the justice system but also perpetuates a culture of impunity among those in power.

Conclusion

As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us remain vigilant in our commitment to justice and democracy. Let us strive to build a society where the purpose of government is not overshadowed by corruption, but rather, where it shines brightly as a beacon of hope and progress for all.

I am,

Ewing Redmond Samuels III