LOS ANGELES, California – After facing criticism and scrutiny for a pattern of staff-on-inmate sexual abuse at a women’s prison known as the “rape club,” the federal Bureau of Prisons has announced the closure of the facility. The decision to shut down the troubled Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Dublin represents the acknowledgment that efforts to reform and improve the prison have fallen short.
Bureau of Prisons Director Colette Peters stated that despite efforts to address issues such as employee misconduct, recruitment and retention, and aging infrastructure, FCI Dublin failed to meet expected standards. This move comes shortly after a federal judge appointed a special master to oversee the prison and reflects the failure of promised reforms to effectively address the rampant abuse and mismanagement.
Located east of Oakland, California, FCI Dublin is the only women’s federal prison west of the Rocky Mountains. With a current inmate population of 605, down from 760 in February 2022, the closure will result in the transfer of these women to other facilities. Advocates have called for the release of inmates due to not only sexual abuse but also hazardous conditions like mold, asbestos, and inadequate health care.
Last August, eight inmates filed a lawsuit against the Bureau of Prisons, alleging failure to address sexual abuse issues. Attorney Amaris Montes, representing the plaintiffs, expressed concerns about the sudden closure and emphasized the need to address the physical and mental health needs of the incarcerated women during the transfer process.
The closure of FCI Dublin comes after a history of abuse allegations and convictions involving prison staff. At least eight employees have been charged with sexually abusing inmates since 2021, with two convictions, including a former warden. The ongoing civil litigation against the Bureau of Prisons indicates that advocates are not satisfied that the closure will fully address the safety concerns and systemic issues present at FCI Dublin.
Concerns remain about the potential for similar problems at other women’s prisons, raising questions about the Bureau of Prisons’ ability to ensure the safety and well-being of inmates. Despite the impending closure, the fight for justice and accountability continues, with advocacy groups emphasizing the responsibility of the Bureau of Prisons to protect and support those in their care.