Halawa Correctional Facility
Introduction to Halawa Correctional Facility
Halawa Correctional Facility, located in Aiea, Hawaii, is the state's largest prison, operated by the Hawaii Department of Public Safety. Situated in a picturesque valley, this facility has been a focal point of discussions surrounding prison conditions, overcrowding, and the need for reforms. This blog delves into the details of the facility, highlighting the state of the living quarters, the historical context, and ongoing concerns regarding prisoner welfare.
1. Overview of the Facility
Halawa Correctional Facility opened its doors in 1977 and has since been synonymous with Hawaii's penal system. It contains both medium-security and special needs units, each designed to accommodate a specific population of inmates. As of recent reports, Halawa has been severely overcapacity, housing far more inmates than it was intended to. Originally built to hold around 500 inmates, the facility now struggles with a swollen population that often exceeds 1,100 prisoners, leading to cramped conditions and a range of systemic issues that affect overall safety and well-being29.
2. Describing the Cell Space
The cells within Halawa Correctional Facility are a point of contention among advocates for prison reform. Each cell typically measures around 80 square feet and is designed to house two inmates. This limited space is compounded by the higher-than-expected inmate population, leading to discomfort and lack of privacy. While the cells are equipped with windows to allow natural light during the day, the overall environment has been described as oppressive and lacking basic amenities. Inmates often face issues such as insufficient ventilation, limited personal storage space, and outdated facilities that detract from their living conditions7.
In recent visits, it was reported that electrical problems have resulted in power outages affecting about 20% of the cells, leaving some inmates in the dark for extended periods . Such failures not only underscore the aging infrastructure of Halawa but also raise significant concerns regarding safety and mental health for those incarcerated. The lack of emergency lighting during these outages can be seen as a clear violation of federal correctional standards, potentially infringing on the inmates’ rights and wellbeing .
3. The Run-Down Bird Cage Prison
Described by some as a "bird cage prison" due to its inadequate conditions, Halawa Correctional Facility has been the subject of numerous criticisms regarding maintenance and management. The facility’s physical state reflects years of deferred upkeep, with leaking roofs, plumbing issues, and unreliable electrical systems that severely affect daily operations. Reports have indicated that prisoners sometimes complain about water leaking into their cells during rainstorms, compounding the overall neglect experienced in the facility .
The term "bird cage" aptly captures the sentiment among inmates and advocates who liken the experience of incarceration at Halawa to being trapped in a deteriorating cage with little to no hope for change. This neglect has led to a range of additional problems, including overcrowding and the unhealthy environment that can exacerbate existing mental health issues among the inmate population. Family members of inmates have voiced concerns, stating that these conditions create an inhumane living situation that is far from rehabilitative or conducive to reintegration into society .
4. Historical Context and Evolution
Halawa Correctional Facility has its roots in a history that speaks to Hawaii's changing approach to incarceration and crime management. Evolving from a time when lesser attention was paid to inmate welfare, the facility now faces the challenge of modernization amid rising inmate populations. Over the decades, Halawa has adapted to meet various legislative mandates and public expectations. However, the perpetual lack of funding and administrative oversight means that many of its issues remain unresolved .
In 1987, the Oahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) served concurrently as both a local jail and state prison until Halawa fully transitioned into its current role. This history reflects a broader trend in correctional systems across the nation, where aging facilities grapple with contemporary standards for safety and rehabilitation12. The calls for reform and repair resonate strongly with the community and stakeholders who are aware of the necessary improvements to elevate the facility from its current distressing state.
Past Entertainers Share Their Experience
In the early 80's the late Izrael Kamakawiwo'ole had done some time in Halawa and it only took one time for Iz to go to prison and he changed his whole thinking around.
Gee, I figa I stay hea no look good da ohana stay wonderin' what dis boi up to? Eh one speed, I did my time and outta dea I wen ho'i! - Iz Kamakawiwo'ole
The ever famous Ata Damasco was imprisoned in 1994 for theft of livestock and he shared his experience while incarcerated. He shared that he saw a lot of family there locked-up from all the other islands.
"Many kanaka was locked-up with me and it was a hard time seeing all of us locked-up. Chapel would be filled standing room at the gym. Everybody in prison came to chapel to see and hear me sing and roll the piano out and we had a good time at church" - Ata Damasco, 1994
Ata did seventeen (17) years altogether in the prison system. He has touched people's lives on the inside. He was asked by the Warden if he didn't mind staying seven days in High Security with a notorious murderer "Ronnie Ching" who a week before he died Ata stayed with him and shared who Christ was and what God has done in his life.
While incarcerated in 2011, Ata Damasco was nominated for the "Best Gospel Album of the Year 2011 and he won that year while incarcerated at the Saguaro Correctional Facility in Eloy, Arizona where he did five (5) years straight. Prior to that the Warden allowed him to attend one of his nominated year and has found favor in the Public Safety asserting a good example of turning around his life and showing his many talents stemming from the church.
Ata Damasco is working with troubled teens now and haven't been to prison for 13 years now. He has turned his life fully around and now shares his life-lesson's with other potential lock-ups and just shows compassion for these teens.
5. The Future of Halawa Correctional Facility
Looking ahead, the future of Halawa Correctional Facility is uncertain, marked by ongoing dialogues about funding and reform. The Department of Public Safety has been urged to invest in upgrades that would address not only structural issues but also enhance the conditions under which inmates live. According to oversight commissions, there is a pressing need for systemic changes that would involve securing funds to repair and modernize the facility's infrastructure .
Furthermore, the push for legislative changes aims to facilitate the transformation of Halawa into a rehabilitative environment that emphasizes education and mental health support. Advocates for prison reform believe that addressing these pressing issues is crucial not only for the inmates but also for the broader community as incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society upon their release.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Halawa Correctional Facility stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced by state prisons across the United States, particularly highlighting issues of overcrowding, inadequate facilities, and systemic neglect. The living conditions and the historical context of this facility reflect a complex interplay of governance, societal attitudes toward crime, and the pressing need for reform.
As discussions continue regarding the future of Halawa and similar facilities, it is essential to prioritize humane treatment, safety, and rehabilitation for all incarcerated individuals. The path forward will require a collaborative effort among state officials, community advocates, and the general public to ensure that every inmate's rights and dignity are upheld in the quest for justice and reform.