The workers say they're worried about a recent spike in violent incidents at state penitentiaries. State officials downplay any possible link between the spike and the governor's plan to close prisons.
The Associated Press report says two cases in recent weeks stand out among the others. One of them was an inmate stabbing at Stateville prison. The other involved the stabbing of a guard at the Pontiac Correctional facility. Some workers say the violence bolsters their case against Governor Pat Quinn’s plan to close the supermax prison in Tamms. That facility is reserved for out-of-control inmates from other prisons.
State Corrections officials reject any connection between the Tamms decision and behavior in other lockups. They insist the current prison population can be managed safely and securely.