Persevering Prison Pages

Private Prisons Profits

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 14:19:00 +0000

October 1, 2011

In Arizona, prison profiteers have embedded themselves within the capital and have been influencing our elected state officials. Influencing laws that go before lawmakers and whether they pass. Influence that contributes to the historic budget crisis significantly going on in Arizona.

Duly elected by Arizona voters to represent them, create & enact laws for them and govern, State legislators and the governor are in highly important and trusted public office positions. Additionally, the governor appoints/hires other to closely work in the official and political campaign offices.

Arizona Governor Janice Brewer's close ties to the private prison industry were revealed in an October 28, 2010 investigation by the National Public Radio (NPR), as well as Arizona State Senator, Senate President Russell Pearce and a number of other state lawmakers.

Gov. Brewer's staff of lobbyists and former lobbyists have been allowed to shape our laws and control decisions that affect the lives of countless Arizonians.

Brewer's staff of special interest lobbyists run the show, while Arizona and its citizens suffer the consequences. Schools, teachers, students, the sick, disturbed and dying. Everybody and everything most of us were taught to care for and protect has been suffering the most. Brewer's staff are just a few lobbying quietly behind the scenes with ties to private prisons:

Chuck Coughlin, Brewer's campaign manager: Registered Lobbyist, President of Highground Public Affairs Consultants (who has represented Corrections Corporation of America-CCA)

Doug Cole, Brewer's campaign spokesman: Registered Lobbyist for Highground

Paul Senseman, Brewer's communications director: Former Lobbyist for Private Prison

Eileen Klein, Brewer's chief of staff: Former Lobbyist

Mark Genrich, Brewer's deputy communications director: Registered Lobbyist

Richard Bark, Brewer's deputy chief of staff: Former Lobbyist

Kevin Kinsall, Brewer's policy advisor: Former Lobbyist

Revealed in the wake of 3 Arizona Dept. of Corrections prisoners' escape from a CCA facility in Kingman, AZ and brutal murder of an elderly couple, Arizona's use of private prisons was not cheaper, nor safer. Yet, the Governor, legislators and ADOC continue to pursue the use of private prisons in Arizona.

One of Arizona's most controversial pieces of legislation that ignited fiery protests felt around the world was quietly drafted and passed from behind the scenes with the help of an industry that stood to benefit from it: the private prison industry. Senate Bill 1070 was the legislation.

Requiring police to lock up anyone they stop who cannot show proof that they entered the country legally, private prisons potentially could receive hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants, meaning hundreds of millions of dollars in profits to private prison companies. It's no surprise that the private prison industry was involved in the drafting of and passing of SB 1070.

Arizona State Senator Russell Pearce, the self proclaimed creator of SB 1070, said that it's not about prisons, but what's best for the country. It's hard for most of us to believe Sen. Pearce on this, but even if his intentions weren't about money, appeasing his silent constituents (Big Business) or his racism, he has failed to show how this legislation is what's best for us as a country, rather than harmful. Strangely, Sen. Pearce took his "idea" first to a hotel conference room, instead of the Arizona statehouse floor.

In December, inside the Grand Hyatt in Washington, DC, there was a meeting of a secretive group called the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). A membership organization of State legislators and powerful corporations and associations, there are numerous political players from Arizona that are members. Arizona State Senator, and Senate President Russell Pearce is just one. One of many. Tobacco giant Reynolds American Inc., Exxonmobil and the National Rifle Association are a few other members. Another member is the billion-dollar company, CCA. The largest private prison company in the country. ALEC member companies and organizations seem to have influence in the halls of the Arizona capital and legislative chambers. Or is it coincidence that they have seen laws adverse to them defeated and favorable passed?

"I did a presentation...went through the facts. I went through the impacts and they said, 'Yeah'." Pearse said about this presentation at the ALEC meeting of his immigration "idea". Sen. Pearce and CCA had been going to these meetings for years and both have seats on one of several ALEC boards.

According to CCA reports reviewed by NPR, during their investigations, executives believe immigrant detention is CCA's next big market. Expecting it to bring in a significant portion of their revenues from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

During the meeting, the group decided to turn Pearce's "idea" into a "model" legislative bill. Discussing and debating the appropriate language, they then voted on it. "There were no 'no' votes...never had one person speak up in objection to this model legislation." Pearce said.

About 4 months later, the model legislation became, almost verbatim, Arizona's immigration law. They named it the "Support Our Law Enforcement and Safe Neighborhoods Act."

According to Michael Hough, ALEC's Staff director of the December meeting, "ALEC is the conservative, free-market oriented, limited government group," Mr. Hough was also running for State delegate in Maryland and said if elected he plans to support similar law to Arizona's SB 1070. When asked if private companies usually get to write model bills for the legislators, Mr. Hough responded, "Yeah, that's the way it's set up...businesses and lawmakers should be at the same table, together."

Arizona Sen. Pearce claimed he wasn't concerned that it could appear private prison companies have an opportunity to lobby for legislation at the ALEC meetings, and claims to go to meet with other legislators and not private prison companies. That may be so, but there are 200 private companies paying tens of thousands of dollars to meet with legislators, like Sen. Pearce, at these meetings.

When Pearce's bill hit the statehouse floor in January back in Phoenix, ALEC's influence was apparent too. Thirty six co-sponsors signed on. A number nearly unheard of in the capital. Revealed in NPR's investigations, two-thirds of them were also ALEC members or also attended the December meeting. The same week, CCA hired a powerful new lobbyist to work the AZ capital. CCA denied it has ever lobbied, nor had any outside consultants lobby on immigration law. CCA denies its lobbying on various issues relating to AZ laws, despite evidence indicating otherwise.

AZ politicians have received campaign donations from prison lobbyists and prison companies. 30 of the 36 co-sponsors of SB 1070 received donations over 6 months preceding the co-sponsoring. CCA, Management and Training Corp. and The Geo Group. SB 1070 hit the Governor's desk by April.

Gov. Brewer's own connections to private prison companies were already there. Brewer signed Senate Bill 1070, with the name Pearce, CCA and the others at the Hyatt gave it.

Within 60 days of Gov. Brewer signing SB 1070 into law, CCA and the Geo Group donated a combined $87,500 to the Republican Governor's Association (RGA). RGA has put significant resources into AZ to help elect Brewer.

Althoug SB 1070 continues to be challenged in courts, private prison companies are still capitalizing in Arizona. AZ lawmakerts authorized the ADOC to pay for 5,000 more private prison beds. Private prison companies submitted their bids on the contract from all over. The top three finalists for this contract worth millions of dollars? CCA, The Geo Group and Management and Training Corp. Yes, and if you find that disturbing, you'll find it even more disturbing to learn that even though 3 inmates escaped from a CA facility in Kingman AZ and murdered an elderly couple, as a result of security lapses, poor supervision and other failures by CCA staff, CCA was still a top finalist in the bid to get the contract. No company has been awarded the contract yet, but it's expected to be announced soon.

Sources: NPR; azdem.org ; Arizona Republic.

Counting Anxiously

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 01:40:00 +0000

September 27, 2011

In less than seven months, I will be a free man. The day is getting near when I'll walk out of these gates and sigh a sigh of relief that its over and I'm on my way home. Home, where I'll walk around barefoot on my carpet. No more concrete floors beneath cheap flip flops. Home, where I watch what I want to watch on my tv. Home, where I can eat anything I choose at any time. Home, where I can pick up my phone and talk to my friends and family at any reasonable hour. Home, where I can feed birds in My yard, rather than sweat in the barren recreation yard waiting 2 hours to get off of it and into dorm. Yeah, I'm getting anxious to go home and live my life.

That is unless I make it home and there's somebody special waiting for me. Because let's face the fact guys...if you've got a woman you love in your life, she runs the show and simply lets you think you're in charge. LOL. I'm totally cool with that though. To be honest, I need some supervision when I get out, while I re acclimate myself with freedom. Until I'm back in the groove of society, I'll just act like I know where I'm going, what I'm doing and that I'm in charge. Hopefully my sweetheart will take pity on me and try to keep me near. However, my sister, niece and best bud Tony and his family will need to truly teach us and keep us both near. I'm certain they'll all be just a call away and ready to help. Everybody keep in mind that I'll have been in prison for nearly 10 years, so no laughing at me getting lost, being unable to work certain electronics/phones/pcs/etc, or things like that and don't be surprised if my woman, Ms. L, and I need your help often. Ms. L is a lot like me and you all know me...I'll try to do it, then ask how if I can't figure it out. No worries though...It's 100% legal for me, including driver's license, insurance and every other little rule and regulation. I won't take my shortcuts that'll jeopardize my freedom or loosing my wonderful woman. Although she's a fan of my blog, she's even more a fan of me, so I must leave her only as Ms. L, until she chooses to introduce herself. Unfortunately for you readers, she loves her privacy and I love her, so you'll have to wait and see. (Shhh...in time I'll have her joining in with our communicating. She'll come to the dark side of the blog! LOL)

I'm not entirely sure what the plans are for my first couple of days out. I know for sure that immediately upon walking out the gates I want to see my big sis, the lovely Ms L and my best friend Tony. Who picks me up is still uncertain. No matter what, these three people I want to see the day I am released. I'd add my friend Sue to that list but she isn't from Arizona, but she did promise me a visit after I'm out and I promised her that I'd show her the beauty of Sedona and elsewhere in Arizona. I'm hoping that within a month or so after my release I'll have all of my closest friends here to visit.

Aside from that fact that I want to get on with my life and be a happy, successful and free man, I want to show all of my friends and family that I made it and with their support. I want that normalcy and everyday joe kind of life in rural America. With a wee bit of funky stuff and good times mixed in. You know...lava lamps in my new house will be a start and all of that nature, nearby creek and lakes to fish in and take relaxing walks. Yeah, I bought a house where some people retire to, but I'll be just starting out there.

Well, I'm counting down the days, and preparing. BTW, I submitted my release information packet last week. That's when it really hit me that I'm really going home soon.

L&R,
Shannon

Prison Reform & Inmate Rights

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 11:45:00 +0000

September 19, 2011

The names Donna Leone Hamm and James J. Hamm have become synonymous with prison reform and prisoner rights advocacy in Arizona. As executive director of Middle Ground Prison Reform, Mrs. Hamm has been on the frontlines of the battle for reform in Arizona's criminal Justice System and inmates rights for nearly a quarter of a century.

Middle Ground Prison Reform has in the past handled all sorts of issues related to prison and prisoners. Recently, Middle Ground has taken a stand against two new policies lawmakers approved earlier this year that was intended to generate money for prison building maintenance and repair.

Since July 2011, the ADOC has been charging a $25 background check fee for most adults applying to be able to visit an inmate in ADOC. In addition, ADOC has been collecting 1 percent of any deposit made to an inmates' prison account. The money, earmarked for the building maintenance & repair fund, is not being used to pay for the background checks or costs of running the inmate banking system. The fees amount to an unconstitutional tax levied on prisoners and family & friends of prisoners only. Because taxpayers already pay for the general maintenance & repair of all ADOC buildings, the $25 seems to be a double taxation to me for those loved ones in ADOC. In addition to these two sources, the new building maintenance and repair fund also receives money from other ADOC account reserved for other purposes, such as the Arts and Recreation Fund. I suspect that some of these ADOC funds that feed the new building maintenance & repair fund is not able to be appropriated by lawmakers. However, this new fund created is.

Middle Ground Prison Reform is helping to right these wrongs. I ask everybody with a loved one in ADOC to visit Middle Ground's website and explore. You can also download and print a copy of the lawsuit. It's on the homepage partway down in pdf format (21 pages),
www.middlegroundprisonreform.org.

Middle Ground can also be contacted at:
James and Donna Hamm
Middle Ground Prison Reform
139 East Encanto Drive
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 966-8116
donnaleonehamm@yahoo.com
middlegroundprisonreform@msn.com

Squirrel!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:36:00 +0000

August 26, 2011

On 8/18/11, I was transferred to Barchey Unit. A medium security yard at Lewis complex. The reason behind the move was not given to me, but I'm certain that it was caused by CO IV Goins.

Goins is an African American guy whose pompousness and ignorance outshine his professionalism. Rumored to have sued this way to his current position within ADOC, Goins walks the yard spinning lies, instigating drama and deepening the dislike for him that prisoners and staff have. In addition to petty annoyances that could be attributed to his personality, Mr. Goins also had a few quite serious quirks. Two of which were his outspoken prejudice and brash attitude towards drug addicts. My own shortness with people like Goins contributed to my demise as a minimum security inmate on Eagle Point Unit.

Despite the fact that the Deputy Warden, two COIII's, COIV and Central Office authorizing me to stay a minimum security inmate on Eagle Point Unit, it's apparent that Goins has used the "Morphine Incident" to harass me, make accusations against me of illegal activities, and get me moved off of the unit.

Some may ask why he would single me out. There are multiple reasons, but to be honest I don't know his true reasons.

Since his arrival on Eagle Point, Goins had complained to me numerous times about my blog writing and "warned" me more than once about the contents of what I write. I've also spent time and money starting and keeping alive a program he has been trying to put an end to. The arts and crafts program. There are many reasons I could guess why he targeted me, but I won't. I don't care what his reasons are. I go home in mere months to live my life, be happy and leave all of this behind me.

I'm doing well here and continue to ready myself for my new life.

Oh yeah, upon packing my things for the move, the CO's found my cellmate's two round tail ground squirrels. I'll miss them.

Shannon has moved...

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 18:51:00 +0000

September 4, 2011

Hello readers:

Shannon has been moved to another unit in the prison system and hasn't communicated with me until now. He sent a brief postcard communication requesting I post his new address for you all and assures me he will be sending a blog post soon providing a detailed explanation regarding the move which apparently relates to his last post.

The new mailing address:
Shannon Clark 113372
ASPC-Lewis
Barchey Unit
PO Box 3200
Buckeye, AZ 85326

Sincerely,
Sue O, Blog Administrator

Disciplinary

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:54:00 +0000

July 26, 2011

It's been a while since I've posted. I've gotten myself into trouble. I've been beating myself up a bit over it, but I'm moving forward again. Lesson learned.

For about a year now I've been fighting with ADOC's medical staff. I was diagnosed with systemic Lupus about a year ago. I have no idea what this is or what this means. I do know that my knees and fingers hurt. Sometimes the pain is bad. I've grieved my lack of medical care and repeatedly asked to receive pain relief. I've only received 6 days of some medication that did nothing for the pain.

Some time in May, I screwed up and chose to take a Morphine tablet, for my pain. I got UA'ed shortly after I took it. Dirty! I admitted I self-medicated. Days later I was asked to UA again. Having taken a 60 mg Morphine tablet I told the CO I'd still be dirty. I was again written up. Self admitting to possessing Morphine! Guilty, and disciplined again. I lost a month of good time and other disciplinary sanctions. I screwed up. I've passed a UA recently, am not taking other inmates meds any longer and am waiting for medical care. I'm still in pain, but I will continue to endure. I have exhausted my administrative remedies and will sue ADOC for their callous disregard fo my medical needs and my pain. Once again...I will win and the taxpayers money will be wasted on me. I only want medical care1 I'm willing and able to pay for my medical care but ADOC won't allow it.

Arizona Senator Russell Pearce

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 16:37:00 +0000

April 26, 2011

Born June 23, 1947, Arizona State Senator Russell Pearce represents District 18, which covers most of Western and Central Mesa, and a small portion of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Previously, this Republican lawmaker also served in the Arizona House of Representatives, and is widely known for sponsoring legislation seeking to stop illegal immigration. Senator Pearce favors a strong border security policy. In January 2011, Sen. Pearce became the President of the Arizona State Senate.

Pearce grew up in a troubled and impoverished home. His father was an alcoholic. At times he would come home from school and find that the neighbors had left groceries for his family. However, his mother would always put the food aside, not accepting charity.

Initially, Pearce wanted to attend medical school, but his family wasn't able to afford it. Russell Pearce joined the Maricopa County Sheriff's Department. In time he became a highly decorated peace officer and even received the Medal of Valor for his 35 years of service. Pearce rose to the level of Second in Command, Chief Deputy Sheriff, under Joe Arpaio. Interestingly, Pearce claims credit for one of the most publicized and controversial actions of MCSO, under Arpaio's cruel reign, that of housing jail inmates in military-type tents. During his tenure with MCSO, Pearce investigated many violent crimes and was also the victim of a violent crime when he was shot in the chest while on duty. In 1994, Russell Pearce was appointed to the position of Director of the State Highway Safety Department.

In 1995, Pearce became the Director of the Arizona Motor Vehical Division. Two notable accomplishments he had as such were: 1) Bringing in IBM to create the first version of servicearizona.com, on online resource for Arizona citizens to update the MVD info and 2) Pearce enrolled Arizona in the then optional National Drivers Registry program, making collection of Social Security numbers for driver's licenses mandatory at the state level to comply with the federal program. According to Chris Moesor of the Arizona Republic, in his August 21, 1999 article, Russell Pearce was discharged from that position in 1999 after an investigation revealed he had been complicit in tampering with state driving records.

Russell Pearce is an advocate for the following positions:

1. Smaller and more efficient government
2. Using ID cards that link to Social Security numbers
3. Eliminating abuse of eminent domain
4. Tightening border security
5. Supporter of 2nd amendment in the context of US gun rights
6. Supporting private property rights
7. Improving education and discipline
8. Supporting Boy Scouts of America in their moral leadership goals
9. Supports traditional family values
10. Promoting pro-life views
11. Amending the Citizenship Clause of the 14th amendment to limit who can a citizen by birth on US soil
12. Supporting the Taxpayers Bill of Rights
13. Against judicial activism
14. Improving transportation

Additionally, Russell Pearce was a lead sponsor of Arizona's Senate Bill 1070 (SB-1070), which attracted nationwide attention after the Obama administration challenged the law, resulting in a federal court ruling that most of the law was unconstitutional. Pearce told gathering activists, "when you talk about jihad, that is exactly what Obama has against America, specifically the State of Arizona" (Los Angeles Times, January 17, 2011). It's also important to note that Russell Pearce has been criticized for drafting SB-1070 as a way to provide income for private prisons by incarcerating illegal immigrants. Pearce was linked to the Corrections Corporation of America (CCA) through a December 2009 meeting with the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, DC. It was at this meeting that Pearce and ALEC members, including CCA officials, wrote the document that would later, almost word for word, become SB-1070 in Arizona. This according to National Public Radio (NPR), October 28, 2010.

Russell Pearce now lives in Mesa, Arizona with his wife Luann. He is the father of five children, Dodi, Sean, Colten, Justin and Joshua. In February 2011, Mesa police arrested Joshua Pearce on two outstanding warrants connected to probation violations and failure to appear in court. Joshua Pearce had previous run-ins with the law and was granted probation for DUI. Recently he was taken into custody again.

With Senator Russell Pearce's extensive background in Arizona law enforcement, history of supporting Arizona's ineffective and arguably detrimental sentencing and corrections statues, and his oppositional stance on sentencing and corrections reform legislation in recent years, I'm curious to see whether his son receives the same treatment by the powers that be in his criminal justice travels or if Joshua will avoid the same "justice" the rest of us get and which his father supports, because of his father. I'm even more curious to know whether the recent changes in DUI laws in AZ got Senator Pearce's vote of approval.

*This entry was written by former Phoenix criminal defense attorney Jason Keller and myself. A similar version of this article was published in the unit's "by inmates-for inmates monthly paper", Eagle Point Post. Unfortunately, after distribution, Eagle Point Administration ordered all distributed copies to be collected and disposed of and the paper's content has been restricted. Not being a fan of censorship, I've decided to run this version of the article for a larger audience and add my own 2 cents to it.

Two Entries in One

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sun, 15 May 2011 12:23:00 +0000

The above photos are a hobbycraft jewelry box created by an inmate. Shannon wanted to try to sell it, but I think this one's mine. I was given another jewelry box by an inmate, purchased from the artist, that is in the shape of a heart complete with a lid and made entirely of craft sticks. I treasure it. Inmates cannot earn income directly by the sale of art-or policies vary-but usually monies earned are given to the family or put in a general fund. Any ideas for selling inmate work? I'm always amazed at the creativity and intricacy of such work.

April 26, 2011

Pen Pal Dilemma

Today I was summoned to a meeting with the Deputy Warden, two CO4's and a CO3.

The meeting began with me asking the Deputy Warden "So, What's up?" What's this about?" The DW, a nice lady and fair Deputy Warden, responded, "You tell me. Is there anything you'd like to tell me?"

"Like what? What's the problem?" I said, sensing she was fishing for information on something she already knew about.

"Are you having trouble with anybody on the yard? We're just trying to be sure you're not being extorted, because we received an application, letter and request to have money taken from your account here to pay for another inmate's pen pal ad. Who is Gabriel Castillo, ADC #148258?" The DW explained to me. "Gabe is a friend of mine and I'm placing a penpal ad for him. I'm not being extorted. He's my friend and I want him to have somebody to write to." I responded. To my disbelief she replied, "He's not a friend. He's an acquaintance. This is prison." -Despite the DW's innuendo, I've found true friendship in prison although the word "friend" is used far too loosely in here and I am guilty of it too.

"You are not allowed to buy another inmate anything off of your account," she informed me. "I thought I just can't buy commissary and stuff like that for someone else? You know, stuff that's inside here." I questioned. "Nope. You're still using your money in here to buy things for another inmate. It's still borrowing, bartering, lending or trading with another inmate." The DW corrected me. "I didn't know this. I won't do it again. I just wanted to help him. He's a good guy with nobody on the outside here to help him. I thought if I could get him a penpal, he'd get some mail and maybe one would turn into a lasting friendship. I apologize," I tried to explain, but was cut off at my apology by one of the CO4s (a new one at Eagle Point).

"Whose handwriting is this?" he asked me, showing me the application, ad text, then letter to the penpal company. "It's my writing," I answered. "In this letter, did you try to get this company to go to the ADOC website and obtain another inmate's information?" Starting to feel like his line of questioning was getting to be more like him trying to make something out of an innocent mistake (of kindness), I told him, "I asked the company to go to the ADOC website, find Gabe's photo there and use that photo on his penpal ad". (ADOC sells inmates one photo for $2.00 which Gabe can't afford to buy on his meager pay raking rocks for ADOC).

This whole thing seemed to be resolved. I was warned that I cannot pay for Gabe's penpal ad. I further learned that no matter how much I'd like to do something nice for another inmate, to give them something beneficial to their future, somebody will try to make something bad out of it. It's the world we live in. The one I put myself in by my actions in 2002 when I broke the law.

I commend Eagle Point's vigilance in trying to crack down on extortion and protect inmates from it. Often times extortion goes unchecked in here. In this problem, and others, Eagle Point's Deputy Warden and staff have been doing a good job.

Unfortunately, Gabe won't have a penpal ad. Considering some of my closest, most trusted, most influential and most cherished friends began as penpals, it saddens me. I know I'd be lost without these people.

I'm sure if someone out there would like to write to Gabe, you might contact Shannon for his information. Blog editor

Shannon has an outside e-mail address

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:58:00 +0000

For anyone wishing to write to Shannon, he has an e-mail address through an inmate service called Prisoner Life. The address is Shannon@PrisonerLife.com. The e-mails will be sent to him via this third party service. He would love to hear from anyone willing to take the time to write. Thanks, Sue Blog Administrator

Addicted to Ignorance

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:18:00 +0000

March 24, 2011 Recently I read a letter to the editor of the Arizona Republic newspaper that saddened and disgusted me. A woman from Arizona expressed her opinion that the blood of those who have died in Mexico's war against drug cartels is on the hands of drug users. Having been a drug addict since around thirteen years old and having a deep understanding of addiction and the illegal drug trade through experience and books, I'm more than qualified to say that the letter writer is not only a part of the drug problem in society, but it is beliefs like hers that keep addicts using. Arguably, her hands are bloodier than the average using addict. The using addict isn't thinking rationally when using. The addict generall suffers from mental/emotional illness. The addict generally has suffered trauma in some form. the addict is not proud of much of anything in their life, let alone their addiction. No, they are victims most often.

Arts & Crafts

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 12:45:00 +0000

March 8, 2011 Today I applied to be a clerk in the Eagle Point Unit's Arts & Crafts room. Due to Arizona's budget crisis, there has been a severe lack of programs being offered to Eagle Point orangemen. Although all areas of rehabilitative programs have been affected, arts & crafts, band room, and the library were three areas I've noticed have been in dire need. Eagle Point's Deputy Warden and Counselor (CO III Killman) have gone above and beyond in their attempts at helping orangemen here continue to have these programs. DW Lawrence has authorized inmates, their family & friends and even ADOC staff to donate arts & crafts, band equipment and reading materials to the unit. CO III Killman has organized, managed and even helped with donations for the unit's art program. Although run entirely on the donations made, these three programs break up the monotony and stagnant time we orangemen have on the unit. The Band and Arts & Crafts programs here have been a huge benefit to the population. As I'm sure I've discussed over the years, idle time for addicts and those with behavioral problems is not good. These programs are important to many and vital to others. Currently there are two other Arts & Crafts room clerks. Both very talented artists, who cherish the art room and the opportunity to teach others. Both good guys. It was them who asked me if I'd be interested in joining them. After briefly speaking to DW Lawrence about the job, she suggested that I speak with CO III Killman about it, which I did minutes later. Now, my program application is filed. I'm waiting for it to be processed and approved. A simple process that should be done before the end of the week, although I'll begin tomorrow. My duties will include a variety of things including making certain the Arts & Crafts room and its restroom is are kept neat, clean and organized, which I'll share with my two co-workers. Additionally, I'll be spending my days helping other guys learn to tap into their artistic talents as well as learning and honing my own skills. I've been enjoying drawing with ink and graphite, oil pastel crayons, chalks, colors and various other mediums. Since Einstein and Woody introduced and encouraged me to try other things months ago I've been water color painting and doing mixed media. Now I'll have ample time and be able to focus more on these things and explore other options. If things work out, I'm hoping to be able to donate some quality art supplies to Eagle Point's artroom for me and other inmates to use, and will encourage others to make donations. Right now, the only catalogue I have to order from is "Cheap Joe's". I'll do my best to give us a little cozy place to do arts & crafts with what I can scrounge up. I've even been tossing around some ideas with CO III Killman for a charity fundraiser using our arts and crafts. Like me, Ms. Killman is partial to charities like Domestic Violence Shelters or children's charities. So much good can be done with this. If you have any ideas, donations or know of any charities...contact me.

From the blog administrator...

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 13:27:00 +0000

The prior post was sent to me two weeks ago. I have no dates or specific information on the commutation hearing except that I am sure time is of the essence in writing to the board. My own schedule and sickness made it very difficult to get this important and lengthy post typed in, for which I apologise to you readers and Shannon.

Sue

Commutation Request #2

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 12:55:00 +0000

March 1, 2011

I've decided to apply for a Commutation of Sentence again, pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes 31-411 (H) (I) (1). I applied two years ago, but was denied a commutation, based on false information.

The Arizona Board of Executive Clemency will now have a second chance at releasing me early. Although I only have about 13 months left until my Early Release Date, it would be a responsible move to grant me a commutation of sentence and release me early, considering Arizona's budget crisis.

The following is a brief summary of what I said to the Board in my Request and I invite everybody to send letters to the Board on my behalf. Every letter helps! Chairman, Duane Belcher, Sr., Arizona Board of Executive Clemency, 1645 West Jefferson, Suite 101, Phoenix, AZ
85007-3000, (602)542-5656, Fax (602)542-5680.

*Cause #2002019776-Burglary-11 1/4 years concurrent
*Cause #2003005505-Burglary-10 years concurrent
*Exact Years/Months of Sentence Reduction Requested: I've requested Time Served, which would release me a couple of months early, but the Board has the power to reduce my sentence in any way they see fit. I'm hopeful that in the least, the Board will acknowledge the change in me and my life. I've provided the following response to the Board's fourth question on their form application for a commutation of sentence. Although slightly different, the following is the gist of what I wrote and what the Board will consider, along with "letters", ADOC's files on me, and "testimonials". Any family & friends may attend and testify if they'd like.

Question #4: Describe why you believe you should receive a commutation of sentence (Reduction)?

Answer: I believe that I should get a commutation because I've changed myself and my behavior. I've spent 8 years in prison changing behaviors & habits that got me in prison. Also, a commutation, in my case, is fiscally responsible, on this Board's part.

For 8 years, many changes in my life have occurred. Some of my own doing. Others by chance.

I've become financially stable and able to support myself when released. I intend to support myself and have the funds to do so. I intend to continue pursuing a college degree at my expense, which began in prison. I'll be attending Yavapai College parttime and working parttime.

I'm 36 years old. I'm not the immature youngster that ran away from problems. In my past, I absconded from Community Supervision. That won't happen again. In my past, I used drugs to run away from problems. I won't do this again. I've been drug free since November 2002. I faced my drug addictions head on and am in control. Using again will cause me to reoffend, lose family & friends I cherish and cause my health to fail. I won't allow this.

Previously, this Board considered my request for commutation. One reason this Board used to deny my request was that ADOC's records indicate I am a suspected racist gang member with racist tattoos. I am NOT a racist or gang member. I have NO gang related tattoos, although I have many tattoos, which I offer to show you. As a youth, I knew and co-existed with gang members of all races. An unavoidable consequence of getting locked up due to my behavior. I don't agree with racist ideologies and hate violence, but must co-exist with racists, gang members and violent people while locked up. I spend my time reading, writing, working, attending classes/programs and blogging via a 3rd party (I provide my web address), as well as preparing for release.

I have reunited with my only sibling after 18 years, as well as my niece, who is 19 years old and an NAU student. My niece writes, but does not visit. I do not want her to see me as an inmate. Ever. I will make up for lost time and my absence in their lives when I'm release. My sister has invited me to live with her at her home in Northern Arizona and has even plotted out all of the things we will be doing to make up for lost time. Comedy Clubs and Disneyland are on the top of her list.

If all of the above hasn't swayed this Board's decision to grant this request, possibly my medical condition and the medical care I will need may.

I have cirrhosis of the liver caused by hepatitis, which requires medical care. Expensive medical care. Despite having sued ADOC, who settled with me for a large sum of money and an agreement to provide me necessary medical care for my condition until my release. ADOC is and has been failing to provide medical care, AGAIN, as agreed since the settlement. Upon my release, I will be responsible for my own healthcare needs. A commutation will allow ME to obtain the medical care I require, avoiding further injury to me, further expensive court litigation with ADOC and further expenses for my medical care and legal ramifications to ADOC (Arizona taxpayers).

If after reading all of the above fails to convince this Board that my request for commutation should be granted, I will appeal to your sense of fiscal responsibility in this desperate time in Arizona history.

As I'm certain this Board is aware, the State of Arizona is in a budget crisis of historical magnitude. Arizona legislators and the Governor have the task of balancing our state's budget. A duty seemingly impossible and hindered by hidden agendas, special interests, political biases and conflicting ideologies. ADOC's budget, although a necessary agency needing funds, is a huge burden on the state. One of the top three general fund expenditures in spending. Releasing me, a non-dangerous rehabilitated offender, with a high chance of successfully making it in society, is fiscally responsible of this board. I will be a tax-paying, productive member of society instead of a burden on Arizona taxpayers as a prisoner.

I ask this Board for time served, but any reduction in my sentence I'd be grateful for, including but not limited to my community supervision being reduced.

*For those writing to the Board, please put "RE:Shannon M. Clark ADC #113372" on your letter.

Public Safety Cuts Deep

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:54:00 +0000

January 22, 2011

The state of Arizona's legislative session began this month. Lawmakers and Gov. Brewer's top priority is Arizona's budget crisis. For the past few years, Az's general fun-which is the main coffer that provides annual budgetary funds for most agencies, departments, programs, etc, in AZ-has been consistently diminishing, while certain agencies, departments, etc budgetary needs have been growing, such as ADOC.

For the past few years, lawmakers and the governor have been making drastic and arguable reckless budget cuts, borrowing and financial manoeuvring to balance the budget and keep AZ afloat. Thus far, their actions have only been postponing the inevitable conclusion of this path. Insolvency.

Governor Brewer's budget proposal was released last week and unsurprisingly, it is chock full of the same cuts, borrowing and gimmicks as years past. One exception I noticed in her proposal was instead of a minimal cut to ADOC's budget, Governor Brewer proposed an increase to ADOC's already huge budget (ADOC's budget is currently the 3rd highest payout from the state's General Fund and soon to be the 2nd highest if cuts to Education and Health Care continue.)

So Gov. Brewer has proposed to cut more funds from Arizona's most vulnerable and vital areas, who have already taken the brunt of all prior cuts, in order to restore ADOC's prior minute cuts and increase their budget.

Some may argue that it is responsible for ADOC's budget to remain virtually untouched by cuts in the interest of "public safety". This is so far from the truth. Let me explain how.

"Public Safety" is a broad description, which is generally used to compartmentalize mainly law enforcement, ie DPS, ADOC, etc, and can include fire rescue and certain other agencies. "Public Safety" is what the governor and lawmakers assert they are going to be preserving by cutting FROM education and Healthcare and giving TO ADOC. However, what they fail to recognize-or is it they simply don't care?-is that cutting the budgets of AHCCCS and Medicaid is a far bigger threat to public safety, than cutting ADOC's budget.

Aside from the obvious fact that if Arizona's AHCCCS/Medicaid dependant citizens loose coverage and need it for life sustaining or saving care, they could DIE. They could suffer. Lawmakers cut funding for life saving transplants. PEOPLE HAVE DIED as a direct result of that irresponsible and callous cut. Lawmakers made cuts that have denied mental health care to severely mentally disturbed people. Severely mentally ill people have been known to harm themselves and others. Case in point: The mass shootings in Tucson.

"Public Safety"...It's painfully obvious that lawmakers and the Governor will be ignoring the public's safety in further cutting AHCCCS/Medicaid. And substance abuse counseling funding cuts... How is that not a threat to public safety?

Now, if Gov. Brewer and lawmakers want to make our state a "Prison State", which is what it seems to me, continue to build prisons, hire guards, and continue with the same old budget cuts, within a couple of years Arizona Dept. of Corrections budget will be the General Fund's highest recipient, instead of it's third highest, next to Education and Healthcare.

One viable solution to the problems with AZ's budget is to reform AZ's sentencing statutes and release some prisoners from ADOC early. Arizona's House Representative Cecil Ash, Republican/Mesa, has been and is pushing for sentencing reform in Arizona. Others in the community support it, too. Maybe it's time for other lawmakers to get on board.

Another Fraudulent Company Preying on Prisoners

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 12:35:00 +0000

January 21, 2011

On 10/21/10, a check in the amount of $50 was mailed to a company in Apache Junction, AZ upon my request. The check was not returned and was cashed.

I was ordering an email forwarding service which this seemingly legitimate company advertised in their "outline of services" that for $50 they would provide me with an email address, and send 20 outgoing emails per monthly and send me (via snail-mail) 40 pates of incoming emails per week (correspondence, embedded attachments and newsletters) for 3 full months. Their "Premium E-Mail Service".

Well, after a couple of months without a response to my order with payment, I wrote inquiring about my paid-for email service. It's been over 30 days with no response. I even included a self addressed, stamped envelope for their response. Nothing.

I'd like to warn all prisoner's families, friends and all others concerned that:

Leonard's Mom, LLC

PO Box 872

Mesa, AZ 85211

PO Box 5415

Apache Junction, AZ 85178

www.leonardsmomenterprises.com

leonardsmom@Lmepro.net

has failed to provide services I paid for or return my funds or even respond to my inquiries.

If anybody knows of a legitimate company that provides such services, I'd greatly appreciate their info.

Parole

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 12:11:00 +0000

January 17, 2011

For the past year, I've noticed dozens of guys being released on Community Supervision (Parole) after completing 85% of their prison terms, only to return for parole violations. Few of them are reinstated onto Community Supervision at their parole violation hearings.

Having spoken to many of these guys, I've learned the following information. hopefully providing this information will help those of you with loved ones on parole, or soon to be on parole.

With nearly everybody I've spoken to, two things were huge contributing factors in their returning to prison. Drugs and lack of adequate support.

Most guys stepped out of the prison gates with good intentions and the desire to successfully complete parole and get on with their lives. Returning to prison to kill their numbers wasn't even a fleeting thought.

Foreseeably, the job market, economy and costs of living were a huge problem. All of these guys had $50, or less, in their pockets upon their release, their loved ones had no income due to recently being layed off, and had no state government assistance due to legislative budget cuts to DES, AHCCCS, etc, so employment was a priority, although a hopeless one.

Most of them immediately began searching for employment with a positive sense of responsibility. Responsibility to loved ones and self. In order to help contribute, lessen burdens and occupy time. In a couple of instances, loved ones may have pushed their family member too insistently to gain employment out of desperate urgency for finances. All of them scoured the community for any legal form of employment. All of them came up empty-handed daily. Within 3 weeks, most of them were highly stressed, feeling hopeless and that they had failed their loved ones. Not only could they not find a job and contribute, but they felt they'd become another financial burden on their family.

Feeling employment wasn't a possibility any time soon, many of these guys went to ask for food stamps, AHCCCS (health insurance) and any other help they could get from local government. Most waited for hours in rooms packed with other people in need of help, only to be told that they don't qualify for help for various reason, although I suspect legislative budget cuts to these agencies and programs were the true reason. A few guys did get referrals to local churches for clothing and food box donations. One guy told me about a church in East Phoenix who gave him clothing, a food box, and a bus pass that was valid for a month to help with his job search.

Now, as many addicts will tell you, we all have our triggers. We all have something that sets off our giving in to our addiction. Combined with high stress, feelings of frustration, fear, hopelessness, defeat, failure, and uncertainty of what to do, many addicts relapse. For parolees, relapsing into using drugs/alcohol is a prelude to recidivism. Random urinalysis is common while on parole. Most parolees with any history of drug use are placed on "colors". The parolee is given a "color" by their PO. Every day the parolee calls a number where random colors are announced. If your color is announced-you go to drop a UA. Everybody's color comes around sometime.

Some PO's don't send you back to prison on your first dirty UA. They'll give you a chance to stop, go to counseling, and get back on track. Others will send you back, just to rid you from their huge caseload. Most of the guys recently were sent back for one hot UA, although one had six over a three month period.

Times are tough for most of you in society who don't have a cool million in the bank. Our state government here in Arizona has made a huge mess of our financial system in AZ. And seems to continue to make it worse. Legislators and our governor refuse to stop all of their political bickering and fix our budget properly. So, until that happens, things will remain tough and even worsen. How can you help your loved one on parole survive and get off parole? Here's my suggestions:

Try not to overwhelm him/her with hurrying them to get a job, but continue to encourage them to find work. Jobs are scarce, but it's good to keep looking. Stressing won't help either of you. Also, let your loved one know that it's okay if they can't find a job and encourage them to keep looking. If you can, join them in their job seeking.

Take a little time to talk with your loved one. Let them know that it's great to have them home and that they aren't a burden. In prison, we don't talk much about our feelings. Sometimes we'll feel that we aren't contributing or are in the way. We're not used to hearing kind words and encouragements so it'll go a long way.

Most importantly, if you loved one is an addict, pay attention to signs of them using or getting ready to. And in my opinion: many would argue in opposition, don't turn them in to their PO or the police for using, unless they are a danger to themselves or others. Talk to them. Try to get them to stop and/or into counseling. Telling their PO or the police will only get them locked up again, and could harm the relationship and will likely no help at all. Prison is full of drugs readily available. A sad reality. Due to AZ's Dept of Corrections and lawmakers' budget cutting decisions, prisons no longer have effective substance abuse classes, much less anything else to give your loved one help with addiction. You can persuade them to take advantage of innumerable meeting and groups out there. Free.

Communication, trust and patience. You'll all make it through these times. What do you think?

Killer Amongst Us

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:16:00 +0000

January 10, 2011

I don't know whether I'm simply more observant of what's going on in society or there has been a dramatic increase of incidents or the news has been reporting these occurances more often, but it seems society is becoming more and more violent and unconcerned with human lives and suffering.

For the past few days, I've watched the news of the mass shooting in Tucson, Arizona, which senselessly too the lives of so many people, including a federal judge and a child, not to mention six others. In addition to critically wounding more than a dozen other people, this person shot Congresswoman Gabriel Gifford from point blank range in the head.

It seems to me that people today no longer cherish life. My fellow man can take away the life of innocent people of any age, sex, race or religion without hesitation. Children, adults and elderly alike have lost their empathy and seem to no longer care.

At times I fear that society will be worse than some of the prisoners I'm locked up with. I've known many convicted murderers and other men who have committed horrible crimes. Many of them truly regret what they've done and would take it back if they could. The part that scares me most is that many of these guys were high or drunk. It seems today's killers are straight and/or suffering mental illnesses.

Am I the only one who is concerned and saddened by this?

My heart goes out to everybody suffering.

ACI Blues

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 13:30:00 +0000

December 17, 2010

Today I learned that Ron Bell, CEO/Owner of First Services, LLC, is under investigation and it is possible that he may not be returning to continue with his telemarketing business at Eagle Point Unit.

For those just joining Persevering Prison Pages, I had previously written about my resigning with First Services a few months ago.

Based on what I've heard discussed through the unit, here's the gist of it...

Mr. Bell was hiring prisoners to work for First Services, based on demand. When First Services would secure a contract with a business, generally on a trial basis, Mr. Bell would hire the number of prisoners required to fulfill the contract. Some of the prisoners hired by Mr. Bell do have computer skills, but most have only barely earned their GED (a requirement for working at ACI). It's apparent that Mr. Bell hired a prisoner who had more than just a functional knowledge of computers. This prisoner was employed by Mr. Bell for only a few months, when he was let go after Mr. Bell discovered that he was not performing the telemarketing calls he was hired to make.

Well, this guy left the yard and apparently on his way out he told the staff that while he was working at First Services, Ron Bell had him doing things which were not only a violation of ADOC/ACI policy, but could be a violation of State and Federal laws. Criminal acts.

Ron Bell has not been present, not anybody else, to run First Services' business since these accusations. All orangemen workers are suspended and not working either.

Rumor has it that Ron Bell and his employees (orangemen included) are under investigation for a range of things. Possibly obtaining a top of the line hacker program, hacking, stealing, and an inmate doing a blog from in First Services are just a few things ADOC is supposedly investigating. The blog I found interesting and had to ask about, which I spoke to the Lt., explaining how I had this and have had for multiple years and did it via a third party by pen, paper and snail-mail. Persevering Prison Pages has never had a single entry done from any computer inside prison. I don't suspect anything will pan out investigating me and my blog, because I'd never jeopardize this great faucet for me so stupidly, but I suspect this won't end that simply if it is in fact my blog they are investigating.

Having worked with Mr. Bell for awhile at First Services, I don't believe he is guilty of what has been said and I hope he gets a fair shake. Although I quit due to his misrepresenting his purpose for coming into prison for the betterment of prisoners, he is a good person and I can't imagine him allowing, much less recruiting someone to commit any of these things. He was a businessman. He wasn't the type to steal or cheat to get ahead. He did come to prison for prisoner labor, but in my opinion his only error was trying to capitalize on the labor of desperate and captive employees while trying to convince them he was trying to help them.

I hope that Mr. Bell gets a fair investigation and outcome. Do you think the inmate who left making these accusations will be charged since he admitted to his part? Should he?

Ozark Woody

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 12:59:00 +0000

December 1, 2010

Standing on her hind legs, nose to the sky, she could smell the aroma of the wheat bread. It was just too tempting for her to resist. Slinking on her belly towards her delicious lunch and away from her hole, she was committed.

For months, Woody and I had been feeding this small gopher wheat bread, and occasionally peanut butter, every Monday thru Friday at 1 pm. For a few days, Woody and I never saw her. We knew she was there. She had dug around two dozen holes on the recreation field, and managed to stealthily snatch her lunch from where we left it. In time she became more and more comfortable near us. We would sit next to her hole and she'd come out, get her food, and go back in her hole.

November 12, 2010, 10:30 am: My buddy was released. After several grueling of waiting for Woody's ADOC transport to come from the main complex, Woody was taken.

Since August 17, 2010, when my best friend Tony went home, I've seen two others to the exit. October 19, 2010, my friend Dizzy went home. -Sorry, Dizz, "Partner Dizzy" LOL. Then on November 12th, my Dawg Woody went home. That last walk to the gate doesn't get any easier. One day it'll be me making that walk, going home!

A couple of hours after Woody left, I was sitting on the recreation field next to one of the gopher holes. Without warning, out popped the little gopher less than a foot away. Moving away from her hole, she gave me just enough time to hatch a plan.

Tossing my sweatshirt over her, I wrapped her up in it and took her to my cell. Gently laying the bundle on the floor, I unwrapped it and stood back. A minute or two later, she timidly crawled out of the shirt. Climbing the side of one of my boxes, she got inside. She stayed in the box for a couple of days, until one night she chewed a gopher size hole in the bottom corner of it so she could come and go.

It has been a few weeks since she moved in. I named her "Ozark Woody". You see, she only has 3 front teeth. One on top and two on bottom. She is standing in for Woody who went home, thus Ozark Woody.

She has made herself at home. She has free roam of the room. She sleeps in a nest she made in a big plastic apple juice jar, which must be on my bed (or she won't go to sleep). She eats rice crispy cereal, bread, peanuts, celery and nacho chips and hides it all in her juice bottle. She crawls into my armpit if she gets cold at night. She likes to clog the entrance of her juice bottle with my socks. She gets mad when I pull my socks out of her bottle. She makes a loud clicking sound with her mouth when she's mad.

Ozark Woody, AKA "OH", has moved in.

Baby Brother and Big Sis

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 08:23:00 +0000

November 14, 2010

Today was another food visit holiday. While the rest of the nation celebrated its brave men and women who've gone to war and defended our country and way of life, I received a much appreciated and needed break from prison and its horrible excuse for "meals".

Aside from the wonderful taste and smell of non-ADOC food, the emotional feelings of it was nearly overwhelming. Nostalgic conversation, updating current going-ons, discussing plans we have and just joking around. It was again an awesome day.

One particular conversation about a friend of ours showed just how alike her and I are. A good friend of ours has discovered that he has made two friends that care about him and will be there for him in his times of need. Both of us will always be there when you need help.

My sister and I ended our visit with a couple of pictures which I'd like to share with you all.

Shannon Clark

In His Own Words (Part 3)

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 10:08:00 +0000

September 30, 2010

On the day I was arrested, I was saved from a life consumed by Oxycontin. Though it didn't seem so at the time of my arrest, it was good for me and was the 1st day of the rest of my life.

I was sent to the ADOC for a 2.5 year sentence for charges including Fraud, Forgery and obtaining Narcotics by Fraud. I ended up at ASPC-Lewis/Eagle Point Unit to complete my sentence. As you may know, a former Police Officer is not held in high regard amongst inmates, let alone an 11 year veteran of the Phoenix PD. If you ask any current or former cop, most will tell you that they'd rather be shot than sent to a place where almost everyone hates cops. This forced me to become constantly aware of my surroundings and wondering if I was going to be assaulted or killed simply because of a job I used to do. Having seen both sides of the fence (no pun intended!), it's made me grow as a person. The main things I've learned are that the smallest things shouldn't be taken for granted and that addiction can happen to anybody. I learned to love small things again because I was forced to go without them. Everything is a luxury after that experience, including being alive to be a father to my son.

I have seen the Criminal Justice System from both sides. I learned that I tried to use a crutch in the form of drugs and that led to my incarceration. I was scared for my life every day and even hit rock bottom to the point where taking my own life became a seemingly rational thought. I felt I couldn't live with the shame I had brought to myself and my family. I could never face anyone I'd known when I was a police officer. I was wearing orange instead of blue. It was all so surreal. As I looked around, I wondered if any of the inmates would know I was a former cop, or if I'd arrested anyone of the inmates I now lived with on a daily basis. I call it a "MindFxxk". The constant pressure of these ideas takes a toll on you emotionally. I was so concerned about being aware of my surroundings, so I wouldn't get killed, that I found little time doing anything else. As time passed, I began meeting people only sharing my military experiences with them, unable to tell them that I wore a badge, too. I slowly found some acquaintances but few people I could call a friend.

I was released on parole April 19, 2010, but violated paroled for a Technical Violation on May 28, 2010, returning to Eagle Point on June 10, 2010.

Upon returning, I was an emotional mess once again, being separated from my family and having to go through the daily stress and stigma of being a recidivism statistic. People who I thought liked me and claimed to be my friend before I left allowed me to walk around in flip flops, not offering to lend me a pair of shoes to ear until I could purchase some. The irony of it was that I had given people my extra shoes upon my April departure.

I was given a roommate-Shannon Clark. A person who I'd only spoken to briefly on my previous stay (before my April release). Now, he was my roommate and I wasn't too sure he was too excited about me coming into his space. As a former cop, I was overly sensitive about not being welcomed because of that, and was on guard before I even stepped into a simple conversation with him.

Upon my arrival, I spoke with some people whom I knew from before and learned that when I left in April it became common knowledge that I had been a police officer. Several people joked about how they "could tell".

I spoke with Shannon and he immediately let me know he had no problem with my being an ex-cop, and we became fast friends. He was one of the only people who welcomed me with open arms and helped me in any way he could. Shannon gave me hygiene items, clothing (because ADOC had none), and told me to help myself to anything of his. He showed me a lot that day and our close friendship really began on that day. He knew that I was having a really hard time emotionally, not being able to speak to my family and not knowing what their mindset was. Were they disappointed? Mad at me? or did they hate me? I was dwelling on this day and night and the fact that some of my so-called friends, who even communicate with my family, turned out not to be friends at all, turning their backs on me when I needed a friend most and even purposely driving a wedge between my family and me with lies. My only friend here seemed to be Shannon, who I really only knew for one day. He listened to me and sometimes that's all one needs to do to help.

As the week went by, the emotional stress built up. I was ashamed to have returned and all I was comfortable with when I left in April seemed to be all gone. My feelings were hurt and I felt alone except for my roommate Shannon.

A few days after I arrived at Eagle Point, I received a letter from my father. The letter basically said that he was shocked by my return to ADOC and that my mother refused to speak or contact me. He said that he had not given up on me "yet" but he and my mother were devastated. Without getting too personal, I believed that I had totally decimated our family due to my actions and I think I took the letter out of context, but with my mental state at the time, I was also giving up on myself. Even the friendship of Shannon couldn't stop what I was believing the letter had said-my interpretation. That was the final straw that broke my spirit.

On Friday, June 18th, I planned to put an end to my family's disappointment in me and also put an end to my shame-I could not face them again. I thought they'd be better off without me. I attempted to kill myself that night. This was no cry for help. I really wanted to end what I was going through (obviously selfish) and did not want to-couldn't-face my family again. I went to bed with the intention of not waking up. I planned so that I would not be found for at least 12 hours, giving enough time to die in Buckeye, AZ, in the bunk above Shannon. I really liked Shannon and felt bad that I had no other option but to do this in my own room and bed. I wrote a note on my father's letter explaining some facts that led to my decision to do this. The things that made my decision to do this truly selfish act were one by one bubbling to the top and by receiving the letter from my father made me feel as if I'd lost everything left that was dear to me. My son and my parents. At that point my self-esteem was practically nil and I felt taking my own life was my only option. Had I rationally thought this through, I would have seen that I was being unfair to everyone who loved me. I was also going to do this in my bunk right above a person (no, the only person) who showed me unconditional friendship and didn't think how it would affect him. I didn't think about my son living life without a father or my parents who always supported and loved me would be burying their child. I just wanted the quick-easy way out. Once again, what was best for me.

I am a planner. No seat-of-the-pants things for me. This wasn't impulsive at all. I planned it down to the smallest detail and felt it would be done and everyone would be better off-especially me.

I woke up in the West Valley ICU. I was barely coherent and had multiple tubes in me helping me breath and putting medication in my body that I tried to destroy. As I became more aware of my surroundings, I listened to the doctor tell me that several organs had shut down and they were doing their best to help me. The doctor wasn't positive about my prognosis and told me that thought I was awake, I still may not survive. I have been faced with more life and death situations than most people due to my choices in professions. I chose those professions not because I had a death wish, but because if someone isn't there to do the right thing and help the "little guy", who will? I am now the "little guy" needing someone to help me live. At some point, I realized I wanted to live, not die, but I many not get the option any longer. For a choice I made, planned out and and so sure I wanted; I chose to live, not die like a coward.

In my life I've put my life in danger to help other people and that may have defined me in my own mind. But now I didn't want to die and cringed at the thought of what my family was thinking now, on top of everything else. The hits just keep on coming.

I laid in the hospital bed hearing beeps and my heart, hoping my body would keep fighting and not give up. My brain now won't give up. I wouldn't let it. I kept telling myself that I can turn things around. I'm not sure if the hospital had some miracle "life is good-be positive" drug, but I say they did. At that moment, I chose to fight and survive, even though just hours earlier my roommate found me in my bed barely alive and barely breathing, by my own choosing.

I guess the time I was unconscious I gave serious thought to my perceived problem and I said to myself (Self...lol) I've been through a lot and seen a lot in my life, and though I've made mistakes, sometimes over and over, there has to be a reason I'm still around. I've cheated death several times and come out on top. There is a reason for this and I must serve a purpose on this earth after I pass these speed bumps that I've put in my path. I owe it to my son and parents to do the right thing. I owe it to myself. At that moment of realization, my life changed and my thought process did too. I stayed in the hospital for 7 days. ICU for two of those days. My kidneys shut down, I had a mild heart attack and some other complications that'll require medication for the rest of my life, but I survived.

I've battled addiction, depression and life changes that were devastating to me and my family. I didn't go through it alone. They were with me every step of the way. I wanted to show them I could do it successfully and make this chapter in my life a memory.

When I returned to Eagle Point, I was given Shannon as a roommate again. I apologized to him for what I'd done and put him through. I didn't intend to do anything that'd put him in a bad mental state, but unfortunately I did. We've talked it through and moved forward.

One week later, my phones were on and I spoke to my father. I learned that after my mother found out about my suicide attempt and critical condition, she was rushed to the hospital where she stayed for several days due to a heart condition, made worse by stress (yes...me). She has since recovered and my father visits me regularly. We've spoken about my situation and I've realized that I made things out to be worse than the actually were. My mother and I have reconciled and had heart to heart talks. I go home in October. There's a lot of love in this world. Just try to appreciate those who show you love.

In His Own Words ( Part 2)

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:31:00 +0000

September 29, 2010

By the time I returned to work as a Police Officer, I was taking oxycontin prescribed by my doctor. I was taking oxycontin while on duty. I was physically and psychologically hooked. I had become another thing I never thought I would be...an addict.

By 2008, I was taking so many pills that I began going to different doctors to obtain more narcotic prescriptions. As my insurance refused to pay for doctor visits any longer due to my frequent "Doctor Shopping" trips, I had to find another way to get my pills that I felt I needed to maintain my mental block to forget.

I began studying the prescriptions I did get and started forging prescriptions for Oxycontin, Fetanyl and Dilaudid up to five times a week. I never tried any type of drug until that first prescription, justifying my addiction by telling myself "It's only pills" and I need them for my pain. Believe it or not, I felt I still had integrity as a police officer because I never stole any money or drugs while on duty and was actually a "straight laced" cop, ensuring I followed the law in the application of my duties to the citizens of Phoenix.

While I was being self-destructive, I didn't see that my emotional turmoil and addiction was also destroying those who loved me; my parents, my son and wife. The world was crumbling around me and all I cared about was determining how long this prescription would last me.

One day in August 2008, I was called to testify in court regarding a case I was involved in. When I came into court, I was shown a 12 page indictment and a court deputy placed me under arrest for Fraud, Prescription Drug Fraud, Forgery and obtaining Narcotics by Fraud, all felonies. I was taken to jail and book-a thing I had done so many times to others. After several months in jail and lengthy negotiations, I signed a Plea Agreement, stipulating a term in the AZ Dept. of Corrections.

Prior to my arrest, I was considered a "Model Officer" who received several awards and commendations. I had always wanted to be a Police Officer and became an officer at the age of 21. While an active Police Officer, I was also in the US Army Reserves when called to serve in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While serving in Iraq, with several other regular active police officers for their respective agencies, we served our country instead of just our communities.

After my injury, when cleared to return to the streets, I had to submit to physical checkups to determine that I could return to work. Though still on prescription pain meds, I was able to work in a "Light Duty" capacity until I could safely do my job without limitations that may have been cause in Iraq.

During this time, I went to physical therapy to help with pain and mobility, as well as speech therapy. After several weeks of this, I returned to full duty, assigned to a 3:30pm to 1:30pm shift.

As I returned to work, I found myself questioning my ability to do day to day activities. There were times when I had to clear my head to re-acquaint myself with the United States and emotionally separate myself with what had occurred in Iraq.

As I was conducting this daily self inventory, I had been in several arrest situations where I had to take a suspect into custody and it turned into a physical altercation. I'd received minor injuries at times and even a broken wrist once. It was just a reality of being a police officer. However, some of those incidents aggravated the injuries I already had suffered in Iraq.

My pain was manageable, but a constant problem for me. I kept the pain manageable with narcotic pain medication, but used caution when taking the pills so that they would not interfere with my job and safety.

As time progressed, my pain worsened to the point of near disability. My doctor was already prescribing me the maximum dosage safely allowed, plus an additional 180 mgs. 360 mgs of Oxycondone was not enough! I upped my own dosage at this point.

By this time, I believe that I was also using the pills to dull and numb myself from the pain and memories going on in my mind. It seemed like I was always reminded of things that went on in a place 10,000 miles away. I was preoccupied with horrors I saw and friends I lost. I was no longer the "happy-go-lucky" person, husband and father I once was. I was taking several oxycontin pills a day and was being told that my personality had changed. Of course, I disagreed with all of those people who told me things I didn't want to hear and I'd convinced myself that nobody understood me and could never understand the things I'd gone through.

By this time, I was taking three times my daily dosage and running out of pills after only 2 weeks. I was convinced that I needed the pills to function, and cope with my daily life.

One day at my doctor's office, I found myself at a moral crossroad. I found a prescription pad in the examination room. I was now a full fledged drug addict and only the shell of the man I used to be. I took the prescription pad and began writing myself prescriptions and filling them at a local pharmacy. I did so 4-5 times per week, knowing that doing it at this same place could put in the same place I'd locked up so many other lawbreakers. Jail. Knowing the consequences, I continued to commit forgeries to get my pills. I was deeply hooked and I needed more and more pills. I felt I needed them more than I needed to follow the law. I remained in this private hell that I created for several months, doing all I could to get my drugs.

Being arrested was my only way out of the chasm I called My Life of Addiction. I was not going to seek help voluntarily and may have died either directly indirectly from my addiction.

In His Own Words (Part 1)

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 09:18:00 +0000

September 28, 2010

The following is a guest blog written by my friend "Dizzy". This is the first time he has spoken since his arrest, August 18, 2008. As always, there are two sides to a story. This is Dizzy's side, in his own words.

I am proud to call him my friend and have a lot of love, respect and admiration for Dizzy. I have complete faith in him and his strength and wisdom to rebuild and recreate a life outside of prison. Dizzy lost a career, his freedom, his happy family, and the trust and pride hard earned by him with his parents. Or so he felt. Dizzy did screw up his life with his addiction and self-destructiveness. Just like so many other addicts, like myself. Dizzy is standing again and heading in the right direction. He is a good person and I'll stand by him just like friends should.

Shannon M. Clark

I was once told that sometimes in life, a significant event occurs that divides your life into two parts; separating time simply into What happened before and after that incident.

My dividing line is August 18, 2008, when I was told that I was "under arrest". It's a phrase I've uttered a 100 times to people, but I never imagined it would ever be uttered to me.

On the afternoon of June 7, 2005, I was assigned to assist an Infantry Battalion in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, as a Combat Medical Specialist (aka...Combat Medic). Duties of a medic include but are not limited to assisting combat zone personnel in battlefield injuries, illnesses and emergency medical treatment to stabilize the soldier until he can be "EVAC'd" (Evacuated to a military treatment facility. Yes, a hospital).

On that afternoon, I was scheduled to be off-duty, a rarity in Iraq. One of my close friends asked me to cover his shift that day and I agreed to do so. At about 10AM, myself and the rest of my squad prepared to depart the base and travel to an area where we had received reports that a local town was possibly harboring a known Al-Quaida terrorist.

Our convoy departed at 12:30PM and traveled toward a town called Tadji, which is a small city in comparison to Baghdad. I was in the third vehicle from the front as we drove north on a well traveled highway.

Up ahead of the lead vehicle I could see a dead and mutilated animal on the right side of the road. I instructed my driver to veer toward the middle of the road to minimize our chance of driving right next to the animal, because my previous experiences and training showed that dead animals are often used to conceal IED's (Improvised Explosive Devices).

As our vehicles approached the area where the animal carcass was, I noticed no pedestrians or children in the immediate area. Only faces peeking out of windows could be seen. When you are in Iraq, you become attentive to what used to be insignificant things, until your life depends on these insignificant things. As my mind was processing my surroundings, I noticed that our vehicles (unarmored Hummers) were too close to the side of the road.

I woke up laying in dust, dirt and blood. Waking to the screams of other soldiers around me. (I'm sorry if I'm rushing through this part, but they are painful memories to recall and put on paper). I attempted to find anyone I could give assistance to, but as I tried to move, I noticed pieces of metal and glass embedded in my arms, legs, cheek, and thigh and groin areas. I tried to crawl to one of the men who I could hear, but found part of the vehicle axle had burned through the top of my boot onto my skin. Because of the serious nature of my injuries, I was unable to properly administer medications and give aide to the other wounded, taking what seemed like a lifetime to apply an occlusive dressing to a chest wound to the driver of my vehicle, breaking a needle off while trying to start an IV in a screaming Spec. 4 from North Dakota.

After what seemed like an eternity, assistance arrived in the form of a Black Hawk Medical Chopper (AKA...EVAC chopper or "dustoff"). Unfortunately the details of that day were burned into my memory as tangible as the hunks of metal in my body. After several hours, I arrived at what is referred to as "Baghdad ER". A hospital for US Military Personnel (and locals). As Camp Victory-Baghdad, I was given pain medication (Fetanyl & Dilaudid) and evacuated to another military hospital in Germany, with 7 other unit members, where I was given Fetanyl, Dilaudid & Morphine for pain. On that day I lost four of my friends. I can still see parts of their bodies covered in dirt and blood. These things haunt me to this day and I simply try not to think of it. (Easier said than done).

After spending several weeks in the hospital, I finally made it home knowing others did not. This is a constant weight on my mind, causing enormous guilt. I asked myself why did I deserve to live while others had their life taken by a coward trying to prove a point to their so-called god. Obviously, this caused a lot of anger towards myself and anyone in a 15 meter radius of me.

I became things I never thought I would be; depressed, angry and uncaring. As I recovered from my physical injuries, I struggled to forget about the events of that warm June day. I was prescribed pain medications, anti-anxiety medications and anti-depressants. As time progressed, I began taking more pain meds and Xanax for emotional pain. Xanax became my emotional crutch, clouding my emotions to just get through another day.

Another Great Food Visit

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 11:30:00 +0000

September 12, 2010

Today was another food visit. My sister waited for me for nearly two hours in visitation. I had to bite my tongue when I was finally notified by fellow prisoners I had a visitor and learned she'd been kept waiting. She didn't seem too upset, so I let it go with only a condescending remark to the visitation officer "Hours of waiting....really?"

Due to short staffing, the second visitation room was not being used, so it was a packed visitation, inside and outside. We shared an indoor table with another guy and his parents. Despite the cramped conditions, it was a happy and great visit. My sister and I talked, joked, laughed and ate for nearly three hours straight. I did most of the eating. LOL

My sister's menu: Granola, chocolate granola bars, fresh strawberries & blueberries, dried cranberries, dark chocolate Kit Kats, two Whoppers, peaches, two pieces of cheesecake (Cheesecake Factory-a kind and generous gift) and two pieces of apple pie. My sister had a salad and nibbled at the rest. I shamelessly ate it all. LOL. It was great!

We also talked about the future and plans we have. We're both starting our lives again. Her daughter is now a Northern Arizona University freshman and her brother (me) gets out in 1 1/2 years. We're going to have fun and make a good life for ourselves.

Another Unfortunate Death

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Clark) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 12:53:00 +0000

September 11, 2010

This week I learned that a mentally ill inmate who left Eagle Point Unit a couple of weeks ago was murdered while in a lock-down detention unit.

I knew the guy. Sharing first names, we had spoken on occasion. Shannon Palmer appeared to be a normal, polite person. Somewhat stand-offish, but harmless.

One day Shannon asked me if I would help him get his story out to the public. I agreed to listen and sat in my cell with him for nearly two hours as he told me his entire story, which he also told me he had written down and kept in his cell.

It was an extremely far-fetched conspiracy, which he told me I'd think it was. It involved the MCSO, Center for Missing and Exploited Children, CIA, US Military Black ops, and various other agencies who were after him. Men in suits of shimmering armor that cloak a person making them invisible. He believed these invisible assassins had been following him and were waiting outside the prison fence to kill him. He also believed he had been given an implant in his thigh by the CIA.

A couple of weeks ago he was just removed off of the yard here. Rumor has it that he was moved to detention for a "Psych Watch".

Based on news reports, and comments I heard from brown & orange shirts, Shannon's cellmate (another guy I know from Tucson's Manzanita Unit) cut his throat and castrated him.

I don't know exactly what happened, but I do know that there are multiple things that trouble me about this.

Shannon Palmer seemed severely paranoid and delusional. He needed psych help. He was put in detention, which is generally used for discipline or protection. He was put in a lock-down cell with another prisoner. He DIED! A horrible death...

Is ADOC so over-crowded and under-staffed that severely mentally ill prisoners aren't receiving adequate mental health care, protection from other prisoners and themselves, and simply ignored until blood is spilled?

I'm fairly certain Shannon Palmer was a minimum security inmate. I also suspect that his cellmate was not. Why did Mr. Palmer have a celly, let alone a higher security one?

How did he get his throat cut in a lock-down unit that doesn't allow shaving razors to be possessed by prisoners and is supposed to be a highly secure unit?

These are all questions that should be asked. Who will investigate this preventable murder?