In a significant development, a federal judge has ordered the transfer of inmates from the Stateville Correction Center in Crest Hill, Illinois, by the end of September. The decision was made in response to concerns raised about the poor conditions at the facility, which were deemed to be in violation of the eighth amendment.

The order comes after Governor JB Pritzker's administration proposed the demolition of both Stateville in Crest Hill and the Logan Correctional Center in Lincoln. The aim of the proposal is to address critical infrastructure needs and save taxpayers millions of dollars.

Lawyers representing the inmates filed a motion in July, highlighting the deteriorated conditions of the facility. They noted that the masonry walls, ceilings, steel beams, and window lintels in Stateville's general housing units posed a risk of harm to the inmates due to falling concrete.

The federal judge's ruling mandates that all Stateville inmates, except those housed in the Healthcare Unit, be moved to other prisons by September 30, 2024. The Illinois Department of Corrections has expressed its support for the injunction and stated that it will adhere to the court's order. The department stressed that the safety, security, and well-being of everyone involved will remain a top priority during the transfer process.

Furthermore, the Illinois Department of Corrections stated that once the rebuilds are complete, the new facilities will provide a safer and more secure environment for both staff and inmates. These improved facilities are expected to enhance rehabilitation and reentry opportunities, contributing to the overall safety of the communities.

The Department of Corrections has been directed to provide status reports on the progress of the transfer on August 30 and September 16. Meanwhile, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, the union representing employees of the Illinois Department of Corrections, has expressed concern over the potential disruption caused by the closure of Stateville. The union is exploring options to mitigate the impact of the ruling on both the prison system and its employees.

Governor Pritzker has assured that correctional officers will not lose their jobs in the wake of the planned demolitions. Under the proposed plan, the aim is to provide modern facilities equipped with the necessary technology and structural capabilities to ensure a safe and secure environment.

As the deadline approaches, the focus will now shift towards ensuring a smooth transition for the inmates to other facilities. The case highlights the importance of maintaining humane conditions within the prison system and the ongoing efforts to improve and modernize correctional facilities in Illinois.