Privatization in Prisons


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Prisons, public and private, fail to keep up with the growing populations in their prison and turn to the use of privately owned companies to help facilitate certain service like transportation, food, clothes, toiletries, medical, and communications. These privatize companies tend to overcharge or cut comers to maximize their profits.

"The prison phone system is now a $1.2 billion-a-year industry dominated by a few private companies that manage phones in prisons and jails in all 50 states, (Williams)." With the absurd prices and fees, private companies like Securus Technologies, make huge profits off families wanting to connect to their loved ones in confinement. Phone companies would pay concession fines to get exclusive contracts to local and state prisons. The competition for these exclusive contracts are fierce These private phone companies would charge more than their commercial counterparts, costing families $15-25 for a 15 minute call.

The problem with these privately owned companies is that they are preying on the the vulnerable. Many families struggle to support their families and with the high prices of services to keep in touch with family members inside prison, it can be too much. Tons of inmates await their call from their loved ones because it their only connection outside. It give them a sense of purpose and belonging just to get through the harsh life in confinement.

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