Ventura County Jail

Inmates

Interview with Ford, Miss T and Reta


JM: Did you find it difficult to get along with other inmates?
Ford: I had no real problems with other inmates. We were on limited programming. Only 6-12 inmates on the day room floor at any given time.
Miss T: I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was for me to get along with the other inmates. I made a couple of friends who I spent time with while I was not in my cell, but I mostly kept to myself.
Reta: yes and no- there were those who were just so annoying and you had to just keep your mind set on getting out of there. focus on the light at the end of the tunnel. no use in trying to change someone who isn't gonna change just cuz you think they should.

JM: What types of things did you have to do to avoid problems or fights with other inmates?
Ford: Stay to your own race and mind your business. Do not get involved with other inmates cocrnong cantten items or gambling and your troubles remain at a minimum.
Miss T: I spent a lot of time by myself. I read a lot of books, did some exercise in my cell, and wrote a lot.
Reta: stay to my myself, not be so set in my ways. if 5 people called the shower it didn't hurt me any to be the last to get my shower that day.

JM: Were you able to choose an inmate if you knew one?
Ford: NO. You bunk with who you are assigned. My observance is of no inter racial bunking. This appears to be institutional policy based on prisoner behavior when mixed with other races.
Miss T: I don't understand this question. Choose an inmate for what?
Reta: no