Hernando County Jail

Inmates

Interview with Ron and JM


JM: Did you find it difficult to get along with other inmates?
Ron: No I got along with most just fine. When you get in there you find you have more in common and it is not worth it to start trouble.
JM: Some yes and some no. Certain inmates are innately angry and will argue with whomever is willing to argue. You also have to take into consideration how you will be treated, if they sense a weakness it will be exploited and you likely will be mistreated. It's best to keep to yourself and to make casual acquaintances- do not discuss your case with other inmates as they will also use that against you- there are several CI in the jail willing to use you to get their sentences lowered.

JM: What types of things did you have to do to avoid problems or fights with other inmates?
Ron: Refrain from saying things that I would normally speak up about on the streets.
JM: I stayed in my room mostly, I read and wrote letters. The advice my lawyer gave me was to keep my head down and stay out of trouble, as a fight in the jail can give the prosecuting attorney more information to make a case against you. If you are arrested for battery, and you fight, the attorney then has proof that you're a violent person.

JM: Were you able to choose an inmate if you knew one?
Ron: Yes, you are able to sumit a request to be housed in a certian wing, dorm, and bunk.
JM: You can, but it's not always a given. The jail is fairly over crowded, and that limits space. But it is possible if you have the right CO.