Open Records Request Denied! Secretary of State, (Deaths in Lowndes County Jail)
July 20, 2010
Several "Open Records" requests were made to the Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriffs Department on the number of Jail deaths on June 11, June 24, and Jul 16th, 2010 but not even courteous reply to these letters have been received--even though thirty inmates have reportedly died in or surrounding the facility.
1. Are the people in our community unconcerned about the lost of human life?
2. When will this trend end, and where are Gerogia Politicians on this issue?
3. Why have not local news papers and television stations done an investigation or published the names of these deceased inmates to the general public after twenty-years?
4. Are local Media Outlets keeping citizens deaf, dumb, and blind therby contributing to the ill conditions?
5. Where are the faith community on these deceased inmates for whatever reasons?
6. How many more must die without even informing the Public?
7. How much Money have been paid out because of these deaths?
8. How much money have been paid for the inhumane living conditions?
9. Why don't the news papers and television stations want citizens to know?
10. When will citizens began to care about human life in Valdosta-Lowndes?
11. * Where is the United States Justice Department since they have been consistently notified for twenty-years?
12. Why have not Moody Air Froce Commanders attempted to have local news papers and television cover these unreported deaths since on airmen from Moody Air Froce died un suspicious circumstances in 1971?
13. Does citizens have a right to know? And does Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia have their own rules, policies, and set of laws?
14. Why have the following letters NOT be answered?
15. Does the lost of human life have any value in Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia?
16. As a military town how can United States Military Veterans NOT be concerned about lost of human life? Since they put their lives on the line in foreign countries for people they did not know. So why can't they stand up for their own fellow Americans and their own children here in Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia? Whats wrong with military veterans?
=============
June 11, 2010
TO: Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department (Sheriff Prine)
This is an “Open Records Request” for an updated listing of all deceased jailed inmates from January 1994 – June 11, 2010 within and surrounding the Lowndes County Jail for whatever reasons. This list should include all jailed inmates that were discharged and sent home to die as we have been informed by citizens, and former inmates.
I commend you for your time in office as Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff and was inspired by the manner in which you ran your campaign. Many local citizens looked for great things during your administration and a more open administration during your tenure. And today, I can honestly say that “we are not who we claim to be but who we prove ourselves to be over a given period of time.”
Previously the Sheriff provided the Georgia State President Edward Dubose, SCLC President Floyd Rose, and my self copies of the information being requested today and it was extremely helpful. Thanks for your efforts in this continued update on behalf of all concerned citizens in our beloved community.
GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired United States Armed Forces Military Veteran
Former Valdosta-Lowndes County Branch President (NAACP)
A concerned citizen and brother of (All) humanity
PREVIOUS FORMAT PROVIDED BY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT:
1. [1994] Inmate Willard McFarland, (BLACK), age 63, Died 01 April 1994, CAUSE OF DEATH: Post-arrest hypoxi encephalopathy to cardiac dysrhythmia, due to cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy.
Year deceased, inmates name, race, age, date of death, cause of death, and date name released to public if available.
==============================
June 23, 2010
TO: Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department (Sheriff Prine)
This is my second “2nd Open Records Request” for an updated listing of all deceased jailed inmates from January 1994 – June 11, 2010 within and surrounding the Lowndes County Jail for whatever reasons. This list should include all jailed inmates that were discharged and sent home to die as we have been informed by citizens, and former inmates.
I commend you for your time in office as Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff and was inspired by the manner in which you ran your campaign. Many local citizens looked for great things during your administration and a more open administration during your tenure. And today, I can honestly say that “we are not who we claim to be but who we prove ourselves to be over a given period of time.”
Previously the Sheriff provided the Georgia State President Edward Dubose, SCLC President Floyd Rose, and my self copies of the information being requested today and it was extremely helpful. Thanks for your efforts in this continued update on behalf of all concerned citizens in our beloved community.
GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired United States Armed Forces Military Veteran
Former Valdosta-Lowndes County Branch President (NAACP)
A concerned citizen and brother of (All) humanity
PREVIOUS FORMAT PROVIDED BY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT:
1. [1994] Inmate Willard McFarland, (BLACK), age 63, Died 01 April 1994, CAUSE OF DEATH: Post-arrest hypoxi encephalopathy to cardiac dysrhythmia, due to cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy.
Year deceased, inmates name, race, age, date of death, cause of death, and date name released to public if available.
=========================================
“Third (3) Georgia OPEN RECORDS request”
July 16, 2010
TO: Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department (Sheriff Prine)
This a my third request June 11, 2010, June 23, and 2010, for “3rd Open Records Request” for an updated listing of all deceased jailed inmates from January 1994 – June 2010 within and surrounding the Lowndes County Jail for whatever reasons---but have not received a REPLY TODATE. This list should include all jailed inmates that were discharged and sent home to die as we have been informed by citizens, and former inmates.
ADDED REQUEST: Yesterday at 1:15 I received a phone call from a retired United States Air Force Senior Master Sergeant now living in Texas. He was stationed at Moody AFB, and has been receiving treatment for the death of his room mates death and HE has added a special request. That the list of deaths be given back from January 1971 to 1 July 2010.
I commend you for your time in office as Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff and was inspired by the manner in which you ran your campaign. Many local citizens looked for great things during your administration and a more open administration during your tenure.
Today I can honestly say that “we are not who we claim to be but who we prove ourselves to be over a given period of time.” Previously the Sheriff provided the Georgia State President Edward Dubose, SCLC President Floyd Rose, and my self copies of the information being requested today and it was extremely helpful. Thanks for your efforts in this continued update on behalf of all concerned citizens in our beloved community.
GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired United States Armed Forces Military Veteran
Former Valdosta-Lowndes County Branch President (NAACP)
A concerned citizen and brother of (All) humanity
PREVIOUSLY FORMAT PROVIDED BY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT:
1. [1994] Inmate Willard McFarland, (BLACK), age 63, Died 01 April 1994, CAUSE OF DEATH: Post-arrest hypoxi encephalopathy to cardiac dysrhythmia, due to cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy. Year deceased, inmates name, race, age, date of death, cause of death, and date name released to public if available.
“Third (3) Georgia OPEN RECORDS request”
==============================
July 2, 2010
TO: Georgia Secretary of State (Brian P. Kemp)
rims@sos.state.ga.us, ghrab@sos.state.ga., cwiseman@sos.state.ga.us, describe@sos.state.ga.us, education@sos.state.ga.gov
On June 11, 2010 I sent an "Open Records Request" to the Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriffs Department requesting the number of deaths that have occurred in the Valdosta-Lowndes County Jail from 1994 to June 1, 2010 for whatever reasons.
As of today! I have not received a phone call or a courteous reply to my request. Is this permitted and did I make an unauthorized request to the Lowndes County Sheriffs Department? Please advise me on this matter on behalf of the general public right to know; if such right exists in the State of Georgia.
I have requested such DATA from other local government agencies many times in the past and have never been ignored for such a long period of time. I may have made an illegal request and made two “OPEN RECORDS REQUESTS.” However I have not received any response to my request whatsoever.
It was reported in the Atlanta Journal and Constitution and in other news papers that Lowndes County was leading the state in jail deaths for whatever reasons. Even the Valdosta Daily Times did an extensive story on the jail deaths.
Moreover the community was provided a listing of jail deaths a few years ago from the then Sheriff. However our records need to be updated and keep the general public informed on local government affairs in the State of Georgia.
It has been reported that 30 jail deaths have occurred and this “OPEN RECORDS REQUEST” is nothing more than an attempt to set the records straight based on correct data from our government agency. I await your response to this matter ASAP on behalf of concerned citizens in our beloved community.
Sincerely,
GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired United States Armed Forces Military Veteran
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity
==========Lowndes County District Letter, September 1, 2003: No reply Received! What about the public's Right to know?
1 September 2003
TO: District Attorney, (David Miller),
Hand copy also given to the Clerk of the Courts!
Valdosta, Georgia 31601
I received a letter and statements signed by eleven citizens of the “United States of America” incarcerated in the Valdosta-Lowndes County Jail--- post dated, 11 August 2003.
“Minister Rhynes, please help us--- we need an outside agency to come into this jail, and help us! We have exhausted all avenues at our level. If you can find it in your heart--- we will appreciate it! Enclosed you will find copies of statements concerning an incident that occurred in Lowndes County Jail on the morning of July 23, 2003, at 8:30. Needless to say --- this incident has been conveniently swept under the rug.”
Excerpts from the four- (4) pages of inmate’s statement! (Available upon request)
- “On 23 July 2003, at 8-8:30 AM a deputy pulled out a pistol like object, and waved it around before aiming squarely at an inmate. We had trouble getting this statement notarized by jail official (I am not signing a damn thing---name withheld). Officers routinely taunt and agitate inmates. No one will listen to us; it is cruel to keep a man in cell B1, without ventilation and no air conditioning. We need help from an outside agency – please help us Minister Rhynes. We have exhausted all our avenues.”
Questions to the District Attorney:
1. Is “The Lowndes County Law Enforcement Policy and procedure Manual” kept up to date? When was the last time it was reviewed by the State—if required? Where can citizen’s checkout this “Manual?”
2. When was a complete Staffing Analysis of the Jail conducted by the Department of Community Affairs or the Georgia Sheriffs Association? Where has this been documented if required?
3. When it is determined that citizens being held in the Lowndes County Jail Constitutional Rights are being violated--- who ensures that corrections be made. WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLYING WITH A JUDGE ORDER AND CONCENT DEGREE?
4. When was the last Federal, State, County, or City inspection done on the Lowndes County Jail? Is there any requirement for these agencies to perform such inspection? If so, what was the rating? Where are they filed? Are they made available to the General Public?
5. Since repeated complaints of abuse and mistreatment at the Lowndes County Jail. Have any type of survey --- been conducted by questioning the entire jail population ----of jail inmates? (To ensure that inmates Constitutional and State Rights are not still being violated).
6. What have you done as District Attorney --- to ensure that the safety and well being of inmates are in accordance with Federal, State, and Local Laws?
7. Who educates the members of the Grand Jury on what to check for--- during their tour of the jail? Do they use a checklist---- provided by the Federal, State or County during their tour of the Jail?
8. Is the Foreman of the Grand Jury, and his/her assistance ---- given the proper guidelines for reviewing the County Jail? Is the report from the Grand Jury, worth the paper that it is written on?
9. Who performs (OVERSIGHT REVIEW); on the County Sheriffs Department to insure inmate’s complaints are adequately investigated IAW, Federal, State Law and Local Policies if applicable?
10. Who insures, that those who use the complaint system are not retaliated against for using the established Complaint system? Has any type survey been conducted to insure this is not the case?
11. Is there a requirement for Medical Staff at the jail ---to be inspected on their competence and professionalism? If so by whom---and how often?
11. Are you familiar with an old “Civil Action #89-54-VAL, U. S. District Court of Middle Georgia, Valdosta Division? Who was responsible for complying with this Court Order---- and Consent Decree? Who insured that all discrepancies were fixed permanently---- that the county would not be guilty of not complying with the decree?
LASTLY: As a Retired Disabled Veterans of the United States Air force, Minister of truth, Single Parent, Business Owner, Community Organizer, concerned citizen, and frustrated over the continued prolong alleged, inhuman, unsanitary, and abusive conditions that exists within our community:
a. Request a written reply to this letter. As to what you will do to assist these, eleven- (11), inmates—and aid, in an investigation of this alleged incident. Which appears to be quite serious because a weapon is said to have been involved (Lowndes County Jail)? In addition, whose responsibility is it to insure that these inmates will not be abused because they requested outside help! Thanks, on behalf of those who requested outside assistance in their dilemma.
GEORGE B. RHYNES
A concerned citizen, seeking to help eleven (11) citizens! (I do not know)
ACTH:
(1) Letter Addressed to me [Names blocked out]
(2) Copy of Official Statements with signatures, on letterhead Stationary
---Dated, 24 July 2003, [Names blocked out]
Cc: Various Local Organizations
---Inmates Who Requested My Assistance
=========================================
FEBRUARY 2005: 1st published on Internet in February 2005, following our local newspaper article!
TO: All Editor & Concerned Americns!
[Headlines in the Valdosta Daily Times on 30 January 2005. JAIL WOES (But Nothing about the human beings living in these conditions) The question MUST be asked by people of conscious. DOES THEIR LIFE MEAN ANYTHING TO EDITORS, AND REPORTERS?]
On 30 January 2005, Grace Accosting a reporter of the Valdosta Daily Times reported. Inside the Lowndes County Jail are cracked walls, rusted pipes and locks that require maintenance. Capt. J.D. Yeager at the jail is mystified as to how the food storage facility passed inspections. They use an intake built for 124 inmates that now accommodate more than 600 on a Friday or Saturday night. Eight (8) to 12 inmates lay out in the hall says Capt. Yeager.
They wash 600 dishes by hand half of the time---because the dishwasher is broken. There is no adequate food storage area. Capt. Yeager is mystified as to how they could receive 80s and 90s on food scores.
Hundreds of entangled wires cause cells and jail doors to malfunction. Pluming problems are rusty copper and terracotta pipes, water faucets in the shower or sinks run constantly. While some are covered with toothpaste caps to prevent leaking.
On the Opinion page it reports: The Managing Editor of the Times is Kay Harris, Publisher Keith Blevins, and General Manager J. H. (Sandy) Sanders reported in their Opinion Column. That their Editorial Board toured the jail and determined that the jail needs improvement---nothing was off limits.
“We found a facility that has seriously out grown its capacity and is in critical need of an expansion. Pluming issues were among the worst problems and food for 600 inmates is prepared in a kitchen smaller than the ones in many homes. Inadequate medical clinic, lack of air circulation, spread of disease is a concern, inmate sleeping in boats on the floor. Moreover, they reported---It is a shame that these conditions have been allowed to deteriorate to this point.” However, the TIMES failed to mention the many inmates having to live under these inhumane, unsanitary conditions. THEY REFUSED TO EVEN MENTION THAT AS A RESULT OF THESE ILL CONDITIONS INMATES PROBABLY SUFFERED AS A RESULT. HOW CAN THIS BE IN THE 21ST CENTURY? Moreover, there have been about eight inmates OR MORE who have died in our surround the jail---for whatever reason. The most recent Death was on 21 June 2004.
It is my opinion that OUR ONLY NEWSPAPAER has contributed to these ill conditions---- by refusing to do investigative reporting as editor Al Parson of the Lake Park Post did---for over 16 years. Their article is the reason WE need help in this South Georgia Town.
Even a person with below average intelligence could have read and reported the findings of a U.S. District Court Judge of the Middle District of Georgia, Valdosta Division. Wherein, Judge Hugh Lawson ruled in his Court Order and consent decree #89-54-VAL, (over sixteen years ago). Those 105 violations must be corrected within two years. Apparently this was not done because many of these problems were identified nearly two decades ago.
While local citizens watched in shock as our “only Daily News Paper” refuse to inform the general public. For more information and follow-up on this two decade old “Hell Hole.” As referred to by Editor Al Parson in a two-hour documentary video entitled “A Chorus of Fear” produced by Professors and students at Valdosta State University. A must for All Americans to see.
For more information: Please contact Al Parson editor of the Lake Park Post 229-242-7179, Rev Floyd Rose, 229-241-1288, President of the Peoples Tribunal, Charles More 229-242-7179 a local writer and educator, and Lee Touchton a white lady who was the President of the local NAACP. Moreover, letters highlighting inmate’s requests and alleged abuses are available upon request from several local organizations.
Inmates have been ignored by the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners, State Representatives and many other elected officials. However, for over 20 years jailed inmates continues to write letters, tell their parents, children, and file law suits seeking outside help to get through the wall of silence—but to no avail. We have signed letters, and notarized statements from inmates who ask me personally to get some concerned person in America to help them. Needless to say no one is concerned about this Hell Hole according to inmates many of whom are American Veterans!
It appears that many Americans care more about Iraqi oil, and the liberation of the people of Iraq. Than our own suffering citizens, mothers, fathers, children, pastors, and lawyers here in the Homeland. Peace!
GEORGE RHYNES
A concerned citizens and brother of humanity
This information was sent to many American News sources, and elected officials. However, we must search the Internet for our news in the 21st century....
Several "Open Records" requests were made to the Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriffs Department on the number of Jail deaths on June 11, June 24, and Jul 16th, 2010 but not even courteous reply to these letters have been received--even though thirty inmates have reportedly died in or surrounding the facility.
1. Are the people in our community unconcerned about the lost of human life?
2. When will this trend end, and where are Gerogia Politicians on this issue?
3. Why have not local news papers and television stations done an investigation or published the names of these deceased inmates to the general public after twenty-years?
4. Are local Media Outlets keeping citizens deaf, dumb, and blind therby contributing to the ill conditions?
5. Where are the faith community on these deceased inmates for whatever reasons?
6. How many more must die without even informing the Public?
7. How much Money have been paid out because of these deaths?
8. How much money have been paid for the inhumane living conditions?
9. Why don't the news papers and television stations want citizens to know?
10. When will citizens began to care about human life in Valdosta-Lowndes?
11. * Where is the United States Justice Department since they have been consistently notified for twenty-years?
12. Why have not Moody Air Froce Commanders attempted to have local news papers and television cover these unreported deaths since on airmen from Moody Air Froce died un suspicious circumstances in 1971?
13. Does citizens have a right to know? And does Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia have their own rules, policies, and set of laws?
14. Why have the following letters NOT be answered?
15. Does the lost of human life have any value in Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia?
16. As a military town how can United States Military Veterans NOT be concerned about lost of human life? Since they put their lives on the line in foreign countries for people they did not know. So why can't they stand up for their own fellow Americans and their own children here in Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia? Whats wrong with military veterans?
=============
June 11, 2010
TO: Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department (Sheriff Prine)
This is an “Open Records Request” for an updated listing of all deceased jailed inmates from January 1994 – June 11, 2010 within and surrounding the Lowndes County Jail for whatever reasons. This list should include all jailed inmates that were discharged and sent home to die as we have been informed by citizens, and former inmates.
I commend you for your time in office as Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff and was inspired by the manner in which you ran your campaign. Many local citizens looked for great things during your administration and a more open administration during your tenure. And today, I can honestly say that “we are not who we claim to be but who we prove ourselves to be over a given period of time.”
Previously the Sheriff provided the Georgia State President Edward Dubose, SCLC President Floyd Rose, and my self copies of the information being requested today and it was extremely helpful. Thanks for your efforts in this continued update on behalf of all concerned citizens in our beloved community.
GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired United States Armed Forces Military Veteran
Former Valdosta-Lowndes County Branch President (NAACP)
A concerned citizen and brother of (All) humanity
PREVIOUS FORMAT PROVIDED BY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT:
1. [1994] Inmate Willard McFarland, (BLACK), age 63, Died 01 April 1994, CAUSE OF DEATH: Post-arrest hypoxi encephalopathy to cardiac dysrhythmia, due to cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy.
Year deceased, inmates name, race, age, date of death, cause of death, and date name released to public if available.
==============================
June 23, 2010
TO: Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department (Sheriff Prine)
This is my second “2nd Open Records Request” for an updated listing of all deceased jailed inmates from January 1994 – June 11, 2010 within and surrounding the Lowndes County Jail for whatever reasons. This list should include all jailed inmates that were discharged and sent home to die as we have been informed by citizens, and former inmates.
I commend you for your time in office as Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff and was inspired by the manner in which you ran your campaign. Many local citizens looked for great things during your administration and a more open administration during your tenure. And today, I can honestly say that “we are not who we claim to be but who we prove ourselves to be over a given period of time.”
Previously the Sheriff provided the Georgia State President Edward Dubose, SCLC President Floyd Rose, and my self copies of the information being requested today and it was extremely helpful. Thanks for your efforts in this continued update on behalf of all concerned citizens in our beloved community.
GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired United States Armed Forces Military Veteran
Former Valdosta-Lowndes County Branch President (NAACP)
A concerned citizen and brother of (All) humanity
PREVIOUS FORMAT PROVIDED BY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT:
1. [1994] Inmate Willard McFarland, (BLACK), age 63, Died 01 April 1994, CAUSE OF DEATH: Post-arrest hypoxi encephalopathy to cardiac dysrhythmia, due to cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy.
Year deceased, inmates name, race, age, date of death, cause of death, and date name released to public if available.
=========================================
“Third (3) Georgia OPEN RECORDS request”
July 16, 2010
TO: Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department (Sheriff Prine)
This a my third request June 11, 2010, June 23, and 2010, for “3rd Open Records Request” for an updated listing of all deceased jailed inmates from January 1994 – June 2010 within and surrounding the Lowndes County Jail for whatever reasons---but have not received a REPLY TODATE. This list should include all jailed inmates that were discharged and sent home to die as we have been informed by citizens, and former inmates.
ADDED REQUEST: Yesterday at 1:15 I received a phone call from a retired United States Air Force Senior Master Sergeant now living in Texas. He was stationed at Moody AFB, and has been receiving treatment for the death of his room mates death and HE has added a special request. That the list of deaths be given back from January 1971 to 1 July 2010.
I commend you for your time in office as Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriff and was inspired by the manner in which you ran your campaign. Many local citizens looked for great things during your administration and a more open administration during your tenure.
Today I can honestly say that “we are not who we claim to be but who we prove ourselves to be over a given period of time.” Previously the Sheriff provided the Georgia State President Edward Dubose, SCLC President Floyd Rose, and my self copies of the information being requested today and it was extremely helpful. Thanks for your efforts in this continued update on behalf of all concerned citizens in our beloved community.
GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired United States Armed Forces Military Veteran
Former Valdosta-Lowndes County Branch President (NAACP)
A concerned citizen and brother of (All) humanity
PREVIOUSLY FORMAT PROVIDED BY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT:
1. [1994] Inmate Willard McFarland, (BLACK), age 63, Died 01 April 1994, CAUSE OF DEATH: Post-arrest hypoxi encephalopathy to cardiac dysrhythmia, due to cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy. Year deceased, inmates name, race, age, date of death, cause of death, and date name released to public if available.
“Third (3) Georgia OPEN RECORDS request”
==============================
July 2, 2010
TO: Georgia Secretary of State (Brian P. Kemp)
rims@sos.state.ga.us, ghrab@sos.state.ga., cwiseman@sos.state.ga.us, describe@sos.state.ga.us, education@sos.state.ga.gov
On June 11, 2010 I sent an "Open Records Request" to the Valdosta-Lowndes County Sheriffs Department requesting the number of deaths that have occurred in the Valdosta-Lowndes County Jail from 1994 to June 1, 2010 for whatever reasons.
As of today! I have not received a phone call or a courteous reply to my request. Is this permitted and did I make an unauthorized request to the Lowndes County Sheriffs Department? Please advise me on this matter on behalf of the general public right to know; if such right exists in the State of Georgia.
I have requested such DATA from other local government agencies many times in the past and have never been ignored for such a long period of time. I may have made an illegal request and made two “OPEN RECORDS REQUESTS.” However I have not received any response to my request whatsoever.
It was reported in the Atlanta Journal and Constitution and in other news papers that Lowndes County was leading the state in jail deaths for whatever reasons. Even the Valdosta Daily Times did an extensive story on the jail deaths.
Moreover the community was provided a listing of jail deaths a few years ago from the then Sheriff. However our records need to be updated and keep the general public informed on local government affairs in the State of Georgia.
It has been reported that 30 jail deaths have occurred and this “OPEN RECORDS REQUEST” is nothing more than an attempt to set the records straight based on correct data from our government agency. I await your response to this matter ASAP on behalf of concerned citizens in our beloved community.
Sincerely,
GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired United States Armed Forces Military Veteran
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity
==========Lowndes County District Letter, September 1, 2003: No reply Received! What about the public's Right to know?
1 September 2003
TO: District Attorney, (David Miller),
Hand copy also given to the Clerk of the Courts!
Valdosta, Georgia 31601
I received a letter and statements signed by eleven citizens of the “United States of America” incarcerated in the Valdosta-Lowndes County Jail--- post dated, 11 August 2003.
“Minister Rhynes, please help us--- we need an outside agency to come into this jail, and help us! We have exhausted all avenues at our level. If you can find it in your heart--- we will appreciate it! Enclosed you will find copies of statements concerning an incident that occurred in Lowndes County Jail on the morning of July 23, 2003, at 8:30. Needless to say --- this incident has been conveniently swept under the rug.”
Excerpts from the four- (4) pages of inmate’s statement! (Available upon request)
- “On 23 July 2003, at 8-8:30 AM a deputy pulled out a pistol like object, and waved it around before aiming squarely at an inmate. We had trouble getting this statement notarized by jail official (I am not signing a damn thing---name withheld). Officers routinely taunt and agitate inmates. No one will listen to us; it is cruel to keep a man in cell B1, without ventilation and no air conditioning. We need help from an outside agency – please help us Minister Rhynes. We have exhausted all our avenues.”
Questions to the District Attorney:
1. Is “The Lowndes County Law Enforcement Policy and procedure Manual” kept up to date? When was the last time it was reviewed by the State—if required? Where can citizen’s checkout this “Manual?”
2. When was a complete Staffing Analysis of the Jail conducted by the Department of Community Affairs or the Georgia Sheriffs Association? Where has this been documented if required?
3. When it is determined that citizens being held in the Lowndes County Jail Constitutional Rights are being violated--- who ensures that corrections be made. WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLYING WITH A JUDGE ORDER AND CONCENT DEGREE?
4. When was the last Federal, State, County, or City inspection done on the Lowndes County Jail? Is there any requirement for these agencies to perform such inspection? If so, what was the rating? Where are they filed? Are they made available to the General Public?
5. Since repeated complaints of abuse and mistreatment at the Lowndes County Jail. Have any type of survey --- been conducted by questioning the entire jail population ----of jail inmates? (To ensure that inmates Constitutional and State Rights are not still being violated).
6. What have you done as District Attorney --- to ensure that the safety and well being of inmates are in accordance with Federal, State, and Local Laws?
7. Who educates the members of the Grand Jury on what to check for--- during their tour of the jail? Do they use a checklist---- provided by the Federal, State or County during their tour of the Jail?
8. Is the Foreman of the Grand Jury, and his/her assistance ---- given the proper guidelines for reviewing the County Jail? Is the report from the Grand Jury, worth the paper that it is written on?
9. Who performs (OVERSIGHT REVIEW); on the County Sheriffs Department to insure inmate’s complaints are adequately investigated IAW, Federal, State Law and Local Policies if applicable?
10. Who insures, that those who use the complaint system are not retaliated against for using the established Complaint system? Has any type survey been conducted to insure this is not the case?
11. Is there a requirement for Medical Staff at the jail ---to be inspected on their competence and professionalism? If so by whom---and how often?
11. Are you familiar with an old “Civil Action #89-54-VAL, U. S. District Court of Middle Georgia, Valdosta Division? Who was responsible for complying with this Court Order---- and Consent Decree? Who insured that all discrepancies were fixed permanently---- that the county would not be guilty of not complying with the decree?
LASTLY: As a Retired Disabled Veterans of the United States Air force, Minister of truth, Single Parent, Business Owner, Community Organizer, concerned citizen, and frustrated over the continued prolong alleged, inhuman, unsanitary, and abusive conditions that exists within our community:
a. Request a written reply to this letter. As to what you will do to assist these, eleven- (11), inmates—and aid, in an investigation of this alleged incident. Which appears to be quite serious because a weapon is said to have been involved (Lowndes County Jail)? In addition, whose responsibility is it to insure that these inmates will not be abused because they requested outside help! Thanks, on behalf of those who requested outside assistance in their dilemma.
GEORGE B. RHYNES
A concerned citizen, seeking to help eleven (11) citizens! (I do not know)
ACTH:
(1) Letter Addressed to me [Names blocked out]
(2) Copy of Official Statements with signatures, on letterhead Stationary
---Dated, 24 July 2003, [Names blocked out]
Cc: Various Local Organizations
---Inmates Who Requested My Assistance
=========================================
FEBRUARY 2005: 1st published on Internet in February 2005, following our local newspaper article!
TO: All Editor & Concerned Americns!
[Headlines in the Valdosta Daily Times on 30 January 2005. JAIL WOES (But Nothing about the human beings living in these conditions) The question MUST be asked by people of conscious. DOES THEIR LIFE MEAN ANYTHING TO EDITORS, AND REPORTERS?]
On 30 January 2005, Grace Accosting a reporter of the Valdosta Daily Times reported. Inside the Lowndes County Jail are cracked walls, rusted pipes and locks that require maintenance. Capt. J.D. Yeager at the jail is mystified as to how the food storage facility passed inspections. They use an intake built for 124 inmates that now accommodate more than 600 on a Friday or Saturday night. Eight (8) to 12 inmates lay out in the hall says Capt. Yeager.
They wash 600 dishes by hand half of the time---because the dishwasher is broken. There is no adequate food storage area. Capt. Yeager is mystified as to how they could receive 80s and 90s on food scores.
Hundreds of entangled wires cause cells and jail doors to malfunction. Pluming problems are rusty copper and terracotta pipes, water faucets in the shower or sinks run constantly. While some are covered with toothpaste caps to prevent leaking.
On the Opinion page it reports: The Managing Editor of the Times is Kay Harris, Publisher Keith Blevins, and General Manager J. H. (Sandy) Sanders reported in their Opinion Column. That their Editorial Board toured the jail and determined that the jail needs improvement---nothing was off limits.
“We found a facility that has seriously out grown its capacity and is in critical need of an expansion. Pluming issues were among the worst problems and food for 600 inmates is prepared in a kitchen smaller than the ones in many homes. Inadequate medical clinic, lack of air circulation, spread of disease is a concern, inmate sleeping in boats on the floor. Moreover, they reported---It is a shame that these conditions have been allowed to deteriorate to this point.” However, the TIMES failed to mention the many inmates having to live under these inhumane, unsanitary conditions. THEY REFUSED TO EVEN MENTION THAT AS A RESULT OF THESE ILL CONDITIONS INMATES PROBABLY SUFFERED AS A RESULT. HOW CAN THIS BE IN THE 21ST CENTURY? Moreover, there have been about eight inmates OR MORE who have died in our surround the jail---for whatever reason. The most recent Death was on 21 June 2004.
It is my opinion that OUR ONLY NEWSPAPAER has contributed to these ill conditions---- by refusing to do investigative reporting as editor Al Parson of the Lake Park Post did---for over 16 years. Their article is the reason WE need help in this South Georgia Town.
Even a person with below average intelligence could have read and reported the findings of a U.S. District Court Judge of the Middle District of Georgia, Valdosta Division. Wherein, Judge Hugh Lawson ruled in his Court Order and consent decree #89-54-VAL, (over sixteen years ago). Those 105 violations must be corrected within two years. Apparently this was not done because many of these problems were identified nearly two decades ago.
While local citizens watched in shock as our “only Daily News Paper” refuse to inform the general public. For more information and follow-up on this two decade old “Hell Hole.” As referred to by Editor Al Parson in a two-hour documentary video entitled “A Chorus of Fear” produced by Professors and students at Valdosta State University. A must for All Americans to see.
For more information: Please contact Al Parson editor of the Lake Park Post 229-242-7179, Rev Floyd Rose, 229-241-1288, President of the Peoples Tribunal, Charles More 229-242-7179 a local writer and educator, and Lee Touchton a white lady who was the President of the local NAACP. Moreover, letters highlighting inmate’s requests and alleged abuses are available upon request from several local organizations.
Inmates have been ignored by the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners, State Representatives and many other elected officials. However, for over 20 years jailed inmates continues to write letters, tell their parents, children, and file law suits seeking outside help to get through the wall of silence—but to no avail. We have signed letters, and notarized statements from inmates who ask me personally to get some concerned person in America to help them. Needless to say no one is concerned about this Hell Hole according to inmates many of whom are American Veterans!
It appears that many Americans care more about Iraqi oil, and the liberation of the people of Iraq. Than our own suffering citizens, mothers, fathers, children, pastors, and lawyers here in the Homeland. Peace!
GEORGE RHYNES
A concerned citizens and brother of humanity
This information was sent to many American News sources, and elected officials. However, we must search the Internet for our news in the 21st century....
posted by George Boston Rhynes @ 10:25 AM
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