Summary of "The Untold Story: Jay Learns Who Really Pays for Prison Time"

Podcast Information

• Title: Still My Baby
• Hosts/Authors: Lemonada Media & Campaign Zero
• Episode: The Untold Story: Jay Learns Who Really Pays for Prison Time
• Release Date: March 1, 2022
• Description: This episode delves into the intricate and often hidden financial burdens imposed by the American prison system, specifically focusing on the "Pay to Stay" policy. Through expert insights and personal stories, the episode unpacks how these policies perpetuate the cycle of incarceration and financial hardship for individuals and their families.

Introduction to the Issue

The episode begins by recounting the infamous case of John Wayne Gacy, a suburban Chicago serial killer whose gruesome crimes shocked the nation in 1978. While Gacy's actions alone are horrifying, the episode uses his story as a gateway to explore a broader systemic issue within the American criminal justice system: the financial implications of incarceration on individuals and society.

Notable Quote:

Jay Ellis [02:20]: "John Wayne Gacy truly becomes a cover, he becomes a political tool."

The Emergence of "Pay to Stay"

In the 1980s, amidst a significant recession, Illinois faced dire budget shortfalls. Representative J.J. Wolf introduced a controversial bill aimed at making offenders financially responsible for their incarceration costs. This policy, known as "Pay to Stay," mandated that individuals pay for their prison expenses, including room, board, and medical costs.

Notable Quote:

Brittany Friedman [06:08]: "Lawmakers in favor one explicitly said the phrase, oh, is this like if you get a hotel bill?"
(Timestamp: 06:08)

Mechanics of "Pay to Stay"

"Pay to Stay" essentially transforms incarcerated individuals into consumers of their own imprisonment. Initially targeted at high-profile criminals like Gacy, the policy gradually expanded to include a broader segment of the incarcerated population. Over time, even minor offenders found themselves burdened with exorbitant fees, leading to a perpetual cycle of debt and re-incarceration.

Expansion and Impact:

• From High-Profile to Widespread: What began as a measure against notorious criminals extended to low-level offenders, often accumulating little debts that translate into significant financial obligations.
• Legal Loopholes: Individuals winning personal injury settlements against the Department of Corrections have their awards seized to cover incarceration costs, further entrenching financial strain.

Notable Quote:

Jay Ellis [08:38]: "It just, it pulls at your heartstrings. And I find it to be the most effective way to get people to do whatever you want."
(Timestamp: 08:38)

Personal Stories Highlighting the System's Flaws

One poignant narrative is that of Corey Booth, a young man whose minor theft led to a cascade of financial and legal troubles. Initially jailed for stealing a lawnmower, Corey couldn't afford bail, resulting in his incarceration and subsequent debt. Continuous cycles of debt accumulation led to repeated incarcerations, severely impacting his personal and family life.

Notable Quote:

Jay Ellis [21:39]: "Corey was not an isolated case. For a lot of people in rural Missouri, this is their life."
(Timestamp: 21:39)

Broader Financial Implications

The episode elaborates on the extensive network of fines and fees that permeate every stage of the criminal justice system. From arrest to probation, individuals are subjected to various charges that collectively amount to a staggering $27.6 billion in fines and fees across the United States.

Notable Highlight:

• Types of Fees: Police transport, case filing fees, electronic monitoring, drug testing, and more.
• Economic Strain on Individuals: Even minimal fees can lead to insurmountable debt, especially when coupled with low wages earned during incarceration.

Notable Quote:

LB Eisen [12:53]: "At a minimum, $27.6 billion of fines and fees is owed across the United States."
(Timestamp: 12:53)

Systemic Failures and Inefficiencies

Despite the introduction of "Pay to Stay" with the intent of raising revenue and holding offenders accountable, the actual financial recovery has been minimal. In Illinois, for instance, only about 15% of the $11 million sought through lawsuits was recovered, questioning the efficacy and financial rationality of such policies.

Notable Quote:

Brittany Friedman [31:28]: "Out of the 102 lawsuit complaints that we have for Illinois that we analyzed in the lawsuits, the state was seeking to recover a little over $11 million across these 102 cases. But what's interesting is that the court only granted partial or full judgments in the amount of 1 million."
(Timestamp: 31:28)

Juvenile Impact and the Criminalization of Poverty

The episode also addresses how these policies extend to juveniles, exacerbating financial and social hardships for young individuals and their families. Instead of focusing on rehabilitation, the juvenile system often entangles young offenders in a web of debt and prolonged legal troubles, contradicting the system's rehabilitative ideals.

Notable Quote:

Nadia Mozaffer [25:00]: "These fees and fines can be assessed on them. It can be assessed on their parents and guardians, and it really causes a lot of financial hardship for young people and their families."
(Timestamp: 25:00)

Cultural and Societal Reflections

Brittany Friedman delves into the societal mindset that fuels such punitive policies. The prevalent belief in meritocracy and individual blame overlooks systemic issues like lack of safety nets and economic disparities, leading to a culture where financial worth unjustly dictates one's treatment within the justice system.

Notable Quote:

Brittany Friedman [30:09]: "We believe in meritocracy. We believe that people are truly getting what they deserve when they get punished..."
(Timestamp: 30:09)

Call to Action and Path Forward

Activist Katie Ryan emphasizes the need for widespread awareness and legislative change to abolish "Pay to Stay" across all states. The proposed goals include prohibiting fees related to medical copays and room and board for both adults and juveniles. The episode underscores the importance of community education and advocacy to foster a more restorative justice system.

Notable Quote:

Katie Ryan [33:14]: "Educate your friends, family, community members, get everyone fired up about how ridiculous and barbaric this practice is and then contact your legislators to demand that they support a bill..."
(Timestamp: 33:14)

Conclusion

"The Untold Story: Jay Learns Who Really Pays for Prison Time" illuminates the often-overlooked financial burdens imposed by the criminal justice system. Through expert analysis and personal testimonies, the episode highlights the flaws and human costs of policies like "Pay to Stay," advocating for systemic reforms to create a more equitable and rehabilitative justice system.

Key Takeaways:

• "Pay to Stay" policies impose significant financial burdens on incarcerated individuals and their families, perpetuating cycles of debt and re-incarceration.
• Systemic Inefficiencies result in minimal financial recovery despite extensive fees and fines.
• Juvenile Justice Impact demonstrates the policy's detrimental effects on young offenders and their families.
• Cultural Beliefs in meritocracy and individual blame contribute to the perpetuation of punitive policies.
• Advocacy and Legislative Action are crucial for dismantling "Pay to Stay" and fostering a restorative justice system.

Further Engagement: For listeners inspired to take action against such injustices, the episode encourages educating communities and reaching out to legislators to support reforms aimed at eliminating financial penalties associated with incarceration.