1. United States
2. La.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my profound concern regarding the recent findings by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) that Louisiana's prison system has been systematically detaining individuals beyond their court-ordered release dates. This practice, referred to as "systemic overdetention," not only violates the constitutional rights of incarcerated individuals but also imposes unnecessary financial burdens on our state's taxpayers. The DOJ's investigation revealed that since at least 2012, more than a quarter of individuals scheduled for release from Louisiana prisons were held past their release dates. Between January and April 2022 alone, 26.8% of released individuals experienced overdetention, with 24% detained for at least 90 days beyond their lawful sentences. This deliberate indifference to constitutional rights is unacceptable and reminiscent of historical injustices. The financial implications are equally troubling. In just a four-month period, the state incurred an estimated $850,000 in additional costs due to overdetention. Annually, this amounts to millions of dollars wasted—funds that could be better allocated to education, healthcare, or infrastructure. The comparison of this practice to modern-day slavery is not hyperbolic. By detaining individuals beyond their sentences, the state is effectively exploiting their labor and freedom without just cause, echoing a dark chapter of our history that should remain in the past. I urge you to take immediate and decisive action to rectify this grave injustice. Specifically, I request that you: 1. Ensure the Immediate Release of All Individuals Held Beyond Their Court-Ordered Release Dates: Implement a comprehensive review to identify and release those unlawfully detained. 2. Establish Robust Oversight Mechanisms: Develop and enforce policies to prevent future occurrences of overdetention, ensuring strict adherence to legal release dates. 3. Hold Responsible Parties Accountable: Investigate and address the systemic failures that have led to this situation, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. Failing to address this issue perpetuates a system that disregards human rights and dignity. As citizens, we cannot condone such practices and will hold our leaders accountable. The eyes of the nation are upon Louisiana, and it is imperative that we demonstrate our commitment to justice and the rule of law. I look forward to your prompt response detailing the steps your administration will take to end this egregious practice and restore faith in our state's commitment to justice.