Angola Prison Heat Scandal: Federal Judge Orders Immediate Reforms

U.S. District Judge Brian Jackson’s order on Thursday reinforces a similar directive he issued in July. The order references photos showing inmates working in the fields of a former slave plantation with minimal shade—just one small pop-up tent for about 20 men. The photos, provided by the advocacy group Voice of the Experienced, highlight the lack of sun protection and seating for inmates working on the farm line at Angola prison.

Plaintiffs’ allegations paint a harsh picture of the State of Louisiana, Jackson wrote. He criticized state officials for their apparent reluctance to make meaningful improvements to the farm line conditions.

A spokesperson for the state corrections department said they would not comment until they had fully reviewed Jackson’s order.

Jackson noted that between July 2 and August 5, there were 50 reports of inmates suffering from heat-related illnesses, with seven requiring emergency medical treatment. He ordered that more tents be set up near work areas, seating be provided, and that prisoners be given 15-minute breaks every 45 minutes during heat alerts.

State corrections officials have appealed Jackson’s original July 2 order. Although a panel from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reduced some of the requirements, key aspects remain in place while the appeal is ongoing. However, Jackson has declined to stop farm line work during heat alerts.

This litigation comes as there is increasing national scrutiny of prison labor systems, which have roots in the era of slavery. An Associated Press investigation linked the supply chains of major companies like Walmart and Burger King to prison farms such as Angola, where inmates are paid pennies an hour or not at all. Some companies, including Cargill, have since cut ties or are in the process of doing so.

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