New Britain Racial Justice Coalition Demands Urgent Investigation of Water Safety at Osborn Correctional Institution

The New Britain Racial Justice Coalition (NBRJC) says it, “urgently calls upon unions and state leaders to demand an independent investigation into the alarming water safety crisis at Osborn Correctional Institution.”

“On Thursday,” The Coalition says, “incarcerated individuals were abruptly deprived of access to clean drinking water, showers, and essential toilet facilities, triggering a dire humanitarian situation.”

The Coalition said that the Department of Correction had a delayed response, but that,

incarcerated workers were compelled to continue their duties within the prison factory under subminimum wage conditions. Shockingly, those who refused to work in these deplorable conditions were unjustly labeled as instigating a riot, leading to their immediate placement in solitary confinement.

The Coalition called reports about the events, “disturbing,” in which, “Inmates describe receiving only three bottles of water, with an additional two provided at night, leading to severe dehydration and health concerns,” and that one inmate said, “I broke out with this crazy rash.”

Saying that there is a, “lack of transparency regarding the crisis,” the Coalition said that,

The New Britain Racial Justice Coalition demands immediate action from unions and state leaders to conduct an independent investigation into the water safety conditions at Osborn Correctional Institution. The Coalition emphasizes the need for transparency, accountability, and the safeguarding of the basic human rights of those incarcerated.

The Coalition says that it urges the public to call on legislators to respond to the situation.

The New Britain Progressive has contacted the Department for comment.