GENERAL NOTES

Please refer to immediate practical matters for additional urgent needs and concerns. This section gives a quick overview of specific types of crimes or incidents that you may have experienced. At the end of each section is a list of related resources under Agencies involved.

Contact info for agencies involved is in RESOURCES.

In Custody Crimes

Violence can occur between incarcerated person(s), committed by correctional staff, or directed against staff by incarcerated person(s). Violence can be physical in nature but can also include sexual violence. Such violence is often connected with previously unaddressed traumas even before incarceration, and the many stressors when inside. Family, friends and attorneys can report sexual abuse, harassment, and other sexual misconduct occurring inside Orleans Justice Center (parish jail) using this confidential hotline: 1 (844) 201-4312 or (504) 717-2279.

In many cases when an incarcerated person commits a serious crime while in prison, they will be faced with new criminal charges. In these situations, the individual would be subject to a new trial. In-custody deaths caused by homicide, suicide, and especially drug/alcohol intoxication, have also been rising dramatically over the past decade (per the Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2018).

Agencies involved: Dept of Corrections; Orleans District Attorney’s Office DA (after arrest); Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office OPSO; FBI (guard on inmate crimes); Coroner’s Office (if there is a death)

In Orleans Parish Prison: To report abuse and sexual assaults: 1-844-201-4312 or (504) 717-2279;

General support: Voice of the Experienced V.O.T.E.; Promise of Justice Initiative (PJI); Daughters Beyond Incarceration; Operation Restoration

Re-entry Support

Individuals who have been formerly incarcerated face many challenges upon release. They may have experienced violence before and during their incarceration. There are local agencies who can help support you after your release.

The Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections has a listing of local re-entry centers, training, and support programs: https://doc.louisiana.gov/imprisoned-person-programs-resources/transition-reentry/

The First 72+ has a page of Re-Entry Resources here: https://www.first72plus.org/reentry-resources including a Trauma 101 guide to dealing with emotional and psychological impacts of incarceration.

The FIT Clinic provides medical evaluation and ongoing healthcare for individuals recently released from incarceration and connects them with resources

Other agencies listed below can help with legislative advocacy, support groups, or connecting you with resources.

Agencies involved: Department of Public Safety and Corrections; The First 72+; The FIT Clinic; V.O.T.E.; Promise of Justice Initiative; Daughters Beyond Incarceration; Operation Restoration