The National Criminal Justice Association announces the release of PJIL's latest publication, "Canary in the Coal Mine: A Profile of Staff COVID Deaths in the Texas Prison System."

Conditions in Texas' largest and most violent jail worsen as staff shortages, overcrowding and trial backlogs become increasingly dramatic, but Michele discusses the need for more data on jail conditions to determine the causes for violence.

An Aurora, Colorado mental health program for jail populations aims to stop recidivism. Michele highlights the need for community health investment.

In coverage on Massachusetts' new bill to establish independent civilian oversight of the state's correctional facilities and Michele comments on the increasing momentum of prison oversight bodies.

Investigators find misconduct relating to a death in custody after two San Diego sheriff's deputies failed to provide medical attention. Michele comments on the need for deputies to err on the side of caution when it comes to incarcerated persons needing medical services.

The national daily news show of Texas features PJIL's launch and mission in a radio segment and news article.

The Editorial Board discusses the need for correctional oversight, and quotes Michele on the increasing momentum across the country supporting the establishment of external correctional oversight bodies.

'Defunding a law enforcement agency like this has the potential to put a lot of incarcerated people and staff at risk,' writes University of Texas law professor Michele Deitch.

The pandemic has pushed Texas county jails to the brink. Incarcerated people there have been hit hard by COVID-19, and jails are struggling to keep staff and attract new employees.

Independent Oversight Is Essential for a Safe and Healthy Prison System,” Michele’s essay published in the Brennan Center for Justice’s series on punitive excess, was featured in Solitary Watch’s Weekly Roundup of News and Views on Solitary Confinement.