S2E13 The Crusader
Summary
John Kiriakou interviews Paul Wright, founder of Prison Legal News, discussing the publication’s origins and its role in exposing prison abuses. They critique the U.S. carceral system’s corruption, citing deliberate indifference to health and rights violations. Wright argues that despite legislative reforms, the system remains fundamentally broken and hostile to prisoner welfare.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Dead Drop and Paul Wright
Origins of Prison Legal News
Paul Wright's arrest and prison entry
Meeting Ed Mead and starting the publication
Censorship and smuggling manuscripts out
Production process and legal battles
Reporting on prison rape and abuse
Roundup articles and bizarre news
Decline in prisoner rights and healthcare
Call from BOP Director and reform efforts
Systemic failure and Abu Ghraib connections
Lack of political will and human rights
Senator Mike Lee and diesel therapy
Political spectrum and civil rights
Hope for reform and global comparisons
Conclusion and preview of next episode
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