Book Of Irving #82431

Applaud the Effervescent 5.11.21 (Please View)

Fallibly Following Up On My Letters To Judges, Legislators, Mayors and Editors

It’s been brought to my attention that, of my letters to editors now coursing through Idaho, one printed in the Lewiston Morning Tribune has been considered among my contacts as a little too alarmist.

The feedback is noted and very much appreciated. It’s helpful when I hear back on my efforts, and always a win when others are involved.

Especially because I’m neither qualified nor able to represent everyone’s viewpoint. Nor am I capable of pretending the solutions are all known. I’m just a firm believer that more conversations are needed. And that being able to act obligates me to try.

But if my letters this month turned you off from discussion, it’s an obvious failure that needs publicly recognized.

So how about some suggestions on how I can improve?

And is it inappropriate of me to ask: Will you consider following up my letters to your local representatives and media with a letter of your own that expresses your concerns?

Please know that I’m not trying to ruin anything for anybody. I’ve sent over six hundred letters to our focalists in Idaho–which requires some time and a bit of expense–all in the interest of improving one forgotten piece of desert that many families find themselves now unwillingly a part of.

Of those letters, I’ve heard back from ACLU Idaho, Senators Burgoyne, Winder and Wintrow, Representative Moon and Lt. Governor McGeachin. But I really haven’t heard back from anybody else. And that includes multiple requests for information and assistance from all six Idaho chapters of the National Alliance for Mental Illness (which, if I’m being honest, rEally KinD oF sTingS).

So, yeah–this time I tried a little something different, hoping to inspire enough curiosity for folks to take a chance on an eye-opening speech or the newsletter that I use to help present some thought.

Here’s how it worked in my mind:

Dear Reader,

I recently presented at the U of Idaho Video Law Symposium. The audience appeared shocked to learn that IDOC’s most problematic inmates are being released back into their communities without programming or supervision. This after compounding their defects with extended periods of isolation. One must simply watch as I unravel while speaking before a small nationwide audience to understand the effects our correctional deficiencies place one one’s being–effects that, left unaddressed, pose significant danger to your local community. The video is available; I’m the second speaker.

@https://youtu.be/7i4o5T55jAc

Thank you,
Patrick Irving 82431
—

With any luck, I figured, because it’s worked for me before, at least a few dozen will click on the video or the visit site where I prepared for them this:

WELCOME to the May edition of First Amend This!

Brought to you by The Captive Perspective and made available at bookofirving82431.com. This publication provides an insider’s look at issues affecting the Idaho Department of Correction community.

If you wish to assist this effort, share the link, cut and paste, or print and send a copy to another.
…

GET INVOLVED

IDOC will be holding monthly Townhall With Leadership meetings all through 2021. Submit your questions to brightideas@idoc.idaho.gov using the subject line “Q’s for leadership,” and be sure to attend the meetings to keep the conversation going.

Offender friends and families interested in networking concerns are encouraged to join the Idaho Inmate Family Support Group (IIFSG) on Facebook or contact them at idahoinmate@gmail.com.

Our legislature is interested in hearing from you. Did you know they answer their own calls and open their own letters? View their contact info here.
…

EDITOR’S NOTE

It’s important to acknowledge that there’s progress in Corrections, that the current administration is exploring new ideas, and that the community is becoming much more involved with citizens able to return from their Sentencing.

But we can’t let that distract us from where there are still deficiencies. The fact is, for too many residents living in our facilities, corrective opportunities are often nonexistent. The majority of our programs are only offered in a rush to the few we’re permitted to cram through the gate. The others, ineligible for parole, are lucky to find a seat in the classes prescribed for reform. And when their sentence expires we release them unsupervised, all our resources invested in their parole-eligible counterparts.

One has to believe there are better uses for our facilities, more ways to engage our residents and offer them reform. Our problematic inmates need more healthy opportunities, not more time in isolation to amplify all their defects.

We can’t keep treating these ideas as inimical concepts. Our residents need processed in ways that better utilize their time.

In addition to the assets on the street being added for reentry, we need more counselors, teachers, and mentors in our facilities. More efficient use of our existing structures, more classes and training for those with and without parole.

We must also consider how punishing those who engage in nonconstructive behaviors when they’re placed in facilities that offer nothing constructive only exasperates the need to continue building prisons.

I bring these issues to your attention not as an employee of the Department, but as one of many residents the Department’s hopes have passed.

For those of you new, we thank you for joining us, and we hope that if you haven’t yet viewed the video of Chris Shanahan and myself speaking at the U of Idaho Video Law Symposium, you’ll find some time in your week to try and fit it in.

We appreciate your audience.

Let’s First Amend This!
—

And that’s the thing with theories: sometimes their flaws aren’t realized until they’re put into practice.

So let me just assure you, I understand that more work on me is needed. And, halfway through the 2010 college textbook “Introduction To Mass Communication: Media Literacy and Culture,” I’m sure that you’ll now be able to rest comfortably knowing the matter has been taken into my own hands.

Allow me to also just mention again that a little assistance fixing my deficiencies would be incredibly appreciated at the level of human.

A point I’ll reinforce with an excerpt from today’s correspondence, before thanking all again for the time that they give me:

Speaking of concerns, I want to acknowledge your concerns with my letter to the editor. I realize yours may be a reaction felt by others. Which is why the broken link was so frustrating. Because when one unpacks the information the video provides, the feeling runs contrary to that of the initial shocker. Though I have to admit, I didn’t expect that instead of considering the benefits of parole (the benefits of supervision), people would prefer just holding others for forever. Makes sense, I guess. Because it’s Idaho. Again, I do appreciate that feedback.

It’s awfully difficult working in the dark. And trying to approach Conservatives and measure their response can be quite a chore. I’m of the mind to think you need to make Idahoans consider the financial and not the human aspects of our incarceration problem: “Either better utilize your systems of Corrections and Parole, or build more prisons that we can’t even staff. How should we spend your dime? By making people more ruined, desperate and dangerous, or by salvaging what we can of the repairable human resource?”

The abolitionist approach is just a nonstarter here. And I have to come from weird angles so as to not appear angry or entitled and indifferent to my crime. So many variables. Ugh.

One of the things I’ve run into, with letters like those, is that, like this time, I had to handwrite 200 in the hopes of reaching just a couple lawmakers and one editor and being able to convert their curiosity towards the video or my newsletter, where I go into more detail to address that initial shocker.

Obviously it takes a lot of time, and the objective is to inspire discourse or redirect their attention to other resources, points, logical trains of thoughts, etc. Improving my system is always my goal.

First Amend This!: An IDOC Newsletter, May 2021

Previous: First Amend This!: An IDOC Newsletter, Apr. 2021

WELCOME to the May edition of First Amend This!

Brought to you by The Captive Perspective and made available at bookofirving82431.com. This publication provides an insider’s look at issues affecting the Idaho Department of Correction community.

If you wish to assist this effort, share the link, cut and paste, or print and send a copy to another.
…

GET INVOLVED

Offender friends and families interested in networking concerns are encouraged to join the Idaho Inmate Family Support Group (IIFSG) on Facebook or contact them at idahoinmate@gmail.com.

Our legislature is interested in hearing from you. Did you know they answer their own calls and open their own letters? View their contact info here.
…

EDITOR’S NOTE

We can’t keep treating these ideas as inimical concepts. Our residents need processed in ways that better utilize their time.

We must also consider how punishing those who engage in nonconstructive behaviors when they’ve been placed in facilities that offer nothing constructive only contributes to the need to continue building prisons.

I bring these issues to your attention not as an employee of the Department, but as one of many residents the Department’s hopes have passed.

For those of you who are new, we thank you for joining us, and we hope that if you haven’t yet viewed the video of Chris Shanahan and myself speaking at the U of Idaho Video Law Symposium, you’ll find some time in your week to try and fit it in.

We appreciate your audience.

Let’s First Amend This!
…

GEO GROUP REVEALS RANSOMWARE ATTACK

The GEO Group, a private prison company that operates 123 facilities with a total of around 93,000 beds and 23,000 employees in the U.S., U.K. and South Africa, has acknowledged an August 2020 ransomware attack that exposed sensitive personal information of prisoners, employees and immigrant detainees.

At the time of the attack, approximately 500 IDOC residents were being housed in GEO’s Eagle Pass Correctional Facility on the Tex-Mex border.

Among the data that was stolen: names, birthdays, medical histories and Social Security numbers.

GEO is said to have waited to send notification to all individuals whose data was compromised until 76 days after suffering the breach. IDOC residents were reportedly not among them.

[Source: Matt Clarke, “Ransomware Attack on GEO Group Exposes Sensitive Information,” Prison Legal News (Apr. ’21)]
…

DISTURBANCE AT ISCC

[The following story, regarding an April 10 incident, originally appeared April 12 on the IDOC website. As of April 26, no further updates have been given.]

The Idaho Department of Correction continues to investigate the disturbance Saturday at the Idaho State Correctional Center.

The incident began about 4:30 p.m. as security staff were responding to a report of an assault on H-block, Tier 1. Residents on the tier began destroying property and ignited a fire in a trash can.

The fire prompted staff to evacuate the tier. Two adjacent 96-bed tiers were also evacuated. The entire facility was placed on secure status to ensure the safety of everyone living and working at the facility. IDOC’s tactical team, the Correctional Emergency Response Team, was activated.

Per IDOC’s emergency response protocol, a request for assistance was made to area law enforcement, fire and emergency services. State and area law enforcement partners maintained a presence around the secure perimeter of the institution while IDOC staff cleared the affected housing unit. Order was restored by late evening.

Residents of the two unaffected tiers in H-block were returned to their living areas late Saturday night.

The men who were living on H-block, Tier-1 have been relocated to other facilities in the South Boise Correctional Complex pending the outcome of the investigation. Those residents will be given opportunities to contact their families soon. The Ada County Sheriff’s Office is also investigating the incident. The tier remains closed as a crime scene.

Four residents who were hurt during the incident were evaluated and treated at a Boise hospital and returned to IDOC custody. A fifth resident was evaluated at a hospital today for an injury he apparently suffered during the disturbance. No staff were hurt.

The IDOC refers to Saturday’s events as a “disturbance” to not prejudice the outcome of any investigation. The facts gathered through the investigation will determine what, if any, crimes took place.

…

COMMISSARY PRICES INCREASING AGAIN

On March 31, Keefe notified residents of a 1.8% price increase, in accordance with the Consumer Price Index, scheduled to start at the beginning of May.

While Keefe professes to “understand the strain that this puts on [their] customers” and “[take] every step to identify new items from producers to decrease [their] cost and maintain [their] pricing,” we actually have a list of the Arizona prices our out-of-state population is contractually paying. And though we can’t yet say for sure who, we suspect someone’s abusing their ability to markup.

Prices: Idaho (with 1.8% increase) / Arizona (prices include a 20% markup)

AMP’D 15″ TV $264.91/ 220.97
Remote for TV $12.72/ 3.14
Rawlings shoes $56.33/ 33.55
Boxer Briefs $8.59/ 4.28
Keefe Coffee $4.08/ 3.26
Flavored creamer $1.70/ 1.03
Sliced Pepperoni $4.88/ 2.44
Cheese sticks $2.36/ 1.66
Starlite Mints $1.27/ .56
Ramen $.41/ .29

To be fair, when it comes to confronting oppressive desert heat or whipping up a dish of black beans and squeeze cheese, folks in Arizona are paying a little more.

8″ Massey Fan $21.19/ 28.31
Sqz cheese $.32/ .49
Black beans $.80/ 1.49

[Keefe’s Arizona prices as listed on IDOC Invitation To Negotiate 19000793. Idaho’s Keefe prices as listed by Keefe and Access Securepak.]
…

FOLLOWING UP ON THE VERA INSTITUTE

For those who don’t remember, back in January we began asking to what extent the Vera Institute of Justice was involved with the Department. With neither taking the time to issue a response, we took it upon ourselves to submit a public records request. Earlier this month that request came back.

According the IDOC/Vera Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), recently extended until March of next year, the Vera Institute is looking to introduce their Restoring Promise model to select young adults incarcerated in our facilities.

The project includes repurposing units and identifying strategies that can be tailored as needed, possibly scaled. Assuming both parties move forward with the arrangement, the Vera Institute will work in partnership with MILPA to offer the Department multifaceted support. Which includes but isn’t limited to: analytics, training, messaging and communications.

Within the MOU, the Restoring Promise initiative requests the Department adhere to two core principles by: 1) suspending or replacing their disciplinary process with Restoring Promise’s methods of conflict resolution, and 2) recognizing the importance of family and refrain from restricting family involvement with program participants using disciplinary sanctions or relationship criteria.

Along with residents targeted by age (18-25), the initiative will also involve an older group of mentors.

As this proposal was made prior to pre-COVID adjustments, it’s unclear what, if anything, has changed of their goals.
…

COVID NEWS

Over 31,600 tests have been administered to IDOC residents in three states. More than 4,350 have identified positive and a total of six deaths have been reported as COVID-related.

The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention has published a report suggesting several facility outbreaks may have been seeded by our residents working in food processing plants.

Though all Idaho residents have been eligible since early April, and though Idaho has had a three-week vaccine surplus for most of the month, as of April 26, only 1520 residents have been fully vaccinated. Another 82 received their first shot, with 23 of those housed in Arizona. When compared to Idaho’s fully vaccinated population of almost 32%, Idaho’s prison vaccinations were sitting close to half that.

Priority has been placed on residents that interact with the community.

Those diagnosed with Hepatitis C are apparently not of any priority.

Fact sheets were distributed for each make of vaccine prior to Janssen’s issues with blood clots. Revised versions have not been distributed.

www.modernatx.com/covid19vaccine-eua
www.janssencovid19vaccine.com
www.cvdvaccine.com

Warden Barlow has issued a memo stating: “The mail room in the South Boise Complex has been negatively impacted by COVID 19. We anticipate that all incoming and outgoing mail services will be delayed until May 10, 2021.”

Extrapolation: While Department employees had the opportunity to vaccinate long before residents, those in the mailroom decided not to opt-in–so there goes our mail while they quarantine paid.

ACLU Idaho and the law firm Shearman & Sterling are in it for the long-haul. They will remain in close contact with IDOC while monitoring all issues related COVID. Those with concerns are invited to forward their COVID experiences to:

ACLU Idaho
PO Box 1987
Boise, ID 83701

View IDOC’s COVID numbers here.

[Sources: IDOC. KBOI Channel 2 News. Audrey Dutton, “Idaho inmates worked at food plants. They got COVID. So did their bunkmates,” Idaho Capital Sun.]
…

PUBLIC RECORDS REQUESTS

Our request for the Board of Correction Meeting Minutes from Feb. ’20 to Feb. ’21 was “lost in the mailroom.” It was then refiled with the timeframe expanded from Aug. ’19 to present. Though filled in a timely fashion, it arrived without the minutes for Sep. – Dec. of 2019. 2021’s meeting minutes were also not included. The reason given: they have yet to be posted.

A request to uncover whether the Department has received or allotted any funds over the last four years for Ad-Seg reform was denied in its entirety for “No Records Found.”
…

NEW RESTRICTIONS ON INCOMING BOOKS

Starting June 1, 2021, all books and magazines must come from either one of the approved vendors listed below or directly from the publisher.

After May 31, all incoming books from outside these vendors, and books not containing a receipt or invoice, will be returned to sender in accordance with SOP 402.02.01.001 Mail Handling In Correctional Facilities, Section 18.

Edward R. Hamilton
Thrift Books
Discover Books
More than Words
Prison Book Program
Books to Prisoners

Note: All books being sent through a religious ministry must have the ministry listed as the publisher of the book.
…

FAT! BOOK DRIVE

In lieu of the new restrictions on books, institutions of higher education are no longer allowed to ship us outdated course materials from their campus book stores to help with our mission of improving our prison library.

For all others interested in contributing and able to abide by policy:

Patrick Irving 82431
IMSI
PO Box 51
Boise, ID 83707

This month’s contributions came from friends and family:

- We Are The Ones We Have Been Waiting For: The Promise of Civic Renewal in America by Peter Levine
- Social & Cultural Anthropology: A Very Short Introduction by John Monaghan & Peter Just
- Anthropology for Dummies by Cameron M. Smith, Ph. D.
- Algorithm by Fiction International (vol. 53)
- Silo by Hugh Howey
- Shift by Hugh Howey
- Dust by Hugh Howey
- Silo Stories by Hugh Howey
- The Complete Works of Andrew Vachss (32 books)
- The Girl in My Wallet by Teresa Nickell
- Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace

Regrettably, the book Civic Activism Unleashed: New Hope or False Dawn for Democracy? (Carnegie Endowment for Intl Peace) by Richard Young was confiscated as contraband as it came through the mailroom. If we find ourselves unable to release it from captivity, we’ll forward it to our friends in the Idaho Inmate Family Support Group, who will surely give it the loving home it deserves.
…

RENICK ON THE RADIO

With over 100 episodes available for streaming, Mark Renick hosts Victory Over Sin on KBXL 94.1FM, Saturdays at 12:30 pm.

This month we tuned in to meet Chris Mecham with the Recovery Advocacy Project. He offered his history with substance abuse and discussed how his project is looking for 10-15 grassroots organizers to help make recovery information more accessible in Idaho. To learn more, visit www.recoveryvoices.org

From Twin Falls, Director John Brannen of Recovery In Motion (RIM) discussed the work his organization is doing, and their relationship with the Idaho Association of Recovery Centers. According to RIM’s website, “RIM exists to remove the barriers to recovery by providing free peer-based recovery support services to individuals and families in our communities who live with substance abuse and/or metal health challenges.”

Lisa and Taylor Gonzales also stopped by for some enlightening conversation. They shared experiences with prison, recovery and faith, and provided an example of how lives can turn around with a little exposure to healthier elements (in their case, JESUS!). It deserves a mention how Taylor described the setting of Ad-Seg in prison: “It’s the exact opposite of love”–if love were human needs met by the connective nature of humanity. Taylor can be found on YouTube with a search for Brother Taylor.

In addition to his radio show, Mark Renick works with a reentry effort under an advocacy arm of St. Vincent de Paul. He and his team are in the process of expanding reentry services throughout southern Idaho. Learn more about their efforts @ https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ and imsihopecommunityphaseii.com.
…

IRS PHONE NUMBERS NOW AVAILABLE

For those still experiencing filing issues or waiting on checks, the following IRS phone numbers can now be called from all facilities.

800-830-5084 Verifying Identity -IRS
877-777-4778 Taxpayer Advocate Service
800-829-3676 Low Income Taxpayer Clinics
…

INMATE SERVICES AT WORK

[Variations of the missive that follows have been launched, handwritten, over 200 times.]

Dear Idaho Editors, Legislature, Mayors and Judges,

I recently presented at the U of Idaho Video Law Symposium. The audience appeared shocked to learn that IDOC’s most problematic inmates are being released back into their communities without programming or supervision. This after compounding their defects with extended periods of isolation. One must simply watch as I unravel before a small nationwide audience to understand the effects our correctional deficiencies place one one’s being–effects that, left unaddressed, pose significant danger to your local community. The video* is available; I’m the second speaker. Sharing among your network is appreciated.

Thank you,
Patrick Irving 82431

*From the symposium mentioned in our Editor’s Notes. For those who have time, it’s definitely worth a view.
…

SUGGESTION BOX

With so many university lectures made available for free, I suggest designating one room and one channel in each of our facilities for intellectual pursuits beyond the realm of GED. A variety of educational lectures from a variety institutions could inspire a variety of new interests and new means for critical thinking–all for the cost of absolutely nothing.

It’s really kind of weird that you don’t do this already.
…

Notch another month, we’ll see you in June!

This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)
— The Lumineers

Next: First Amend This!: An IDOC Newsletter, June 2021

Dear Bonner County Deputy Clerk Crystal S. (4-20-21)

4-20-21

Dear Crystal S.,

I sent you a letter that wasn’t very nice. I was upset because I was attempting to communicate with the judge as an elected member of the judiciary, not as an adjudicator of any case that I’m involved with, and I felt that you prevented me from doing so in a manner rather unwarranted.

As you may have noticed from that letter, I have some technique. That’s because, from where I sit, I seem to write an awful lot of them. Yours is one of the very few I’ve allowed to spend any duration of time with my conscience, and together we’ve decided that I owe you an apology.

Forgive me,
I’m broken,
and such a big fan of The Notebook…

Whoever would have thought
that this is how we’d fall in love?

Gentilities,
Patrick

My Thoughtful Anonymous

I’m of the impression that I’ve received some assistance, and I’m sorry to do this here but I’m unsure from who. The name that was given happened to be my own, and while I’ve always trusted Future Me’s ability to manipulate time, that’s not the signal we’ve agreed to exchange.

So please accept the sincerest of my gratitude, and know that I’ve fashioned your generosity into 200 charges aimed to Einstein-Padolski-Rosen a bridge to an adequate future. (Translation: I’ve converted your assistance into another round of letters that will reach local Legislature, national advocates, and all of Idaho’s District Court Judges.)

Thank you, again. You are very much appreciated.

–Patrick of the Now

Update: This mystery has been solved. Let’s hear it for my mom! I bet Cupid and Santa will get a kick outta this.

First Amend This!: An IDOC Newsletter, Apr. 2021

Previous: First Amend This!: An IDOC Newsletter, Mar. 2021

WELCOME to the April edition of First Amend This!

Brought to you by The Captive Perspective and made available at bookofirving82431.com. This publication provides an insider’s look at issues affecting the Idaho Department of Correction community.

If you wish to assist this effort, share the link, cut and paste, or print and send a copy to another.
…

GET INVOLVED

Offender friends and families interested in networking concerns are encouraged to join the Idaho Inmate Family Support Group (IIFSG) on Facebook or contact them at idahoinmate@gmail.com.
…

EDITOR’S NOTE

On December 07, 2019, I presented a letter to the IDOC Office of Professional Standards, in which I voiced concerns of employee misconduct and how staff facing accusations from IDOC residents are allowed, per policy, to investigate themselves.

That letter appeared in our very first issue (Dec. ’19).

It has yet to be answered.

Much more recently, following my participation at the U of I Video Law Symposium–where I spoke of being obstructed from protected communications, and being retaliated against for presenting group concerns–limits were immediately re-imposed on my communications with legislators, legal professionals, media and advocates.

Because grievances have long been exhausted addressing the above issues, and because of the obvious nature in which these issues are recurring, I suspect that the Department may have just extended the statute of limitations on the First Amendment violations that were the raison d’être for this newsletter.

Which incites me to apprise my new audience of scholarly professionals: If at any time you find yourself able, you’ll be more than welcome to take up the case.

Let’s First Amend This!

[Ref. Exhausted Grievances In Summary (For Legal and Investigative Purpose), Grievances 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13]
…

IDOC RESIDENTS SPEAK AT U of I VIDEO LAW SYMPOSIUM

On March 24 residents Chris Shanahan and Patrick Irving shared correctional experience and insight at the U of I Video Law Symposium with an audience of justice professionals, legal scholars and advocates.

The two presented over Zoom from their respective facilities– Shanahan from Southern Idaho Correctional Institution, Irving from Idaho Maximum Security Institution (Administrative Segregation Unit).

Both residents were chosen for writing submissions soon to appear in the Idaho Law Review.

The event holds significance as an Idaho first.

View the video of the two speaking here.

MORE STIMULUS PROBLEMS

As discussed in March, millions of folks still waiting for their 2020 stimulus checks were asked to file for the Rebate Recovery Credit on 2021’s return.

This reporter, having filed as requested, encountered the same complications now being experienced by others: An IRS notice was delivered to his last-known, 2014 address, and he was given 30 days to confirm his identity or else his return would not being processed.

The letter instructs its recipient to call 800-830-5084 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 PM and verify their identity using its contents, along with copies of multiple tax returns and the documents needed to support those returns.

Those unable to verify their identity over the phone are required to schedule an in-person appointment at their local IRS office.

The letter suggests that one can file a Form 2848 (Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative) if they have contacts available to offer an assist.

It is unfortunate that many will not receive the notice, and of those that do, many will have neither the assistance of an acting representative nor the documents requested to verify their identity.

It is also unfortunate that many DOCs (mine included) are not informing their facility residents that the government may have already requested they follow up on their checks.

HELPFUL INFORMATION

For those unable to proceed with Form 2848 in the timeframe offered, we recommend contacting the Taxpayer Adocate Service (TAS).

The TAS, an independent organization within the IRS, is there for those who’ve been unable to resolve problems with the IRS, or those who believe an IRS system, process, or procedure isn’t working as it should. TAS assistance is free, and they will do everything possible to help you. Go to www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov or call 877-777-4778.

Tax professionals independent from the IRS may also be able to offer assistance.

Low Income Tax Payer Clinics (LITSs) can represent low-income persons before the IRS or in court. LITCs can also help persons who speak English as a second language. Any services provided by an LITC must be free or [provided] for a small fee. To find an LITC near you:

— Go to www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litcmap;
— Download IRS Publication 4134, Low Income Taxpayer Clinic List, available at www.irs.gov/forms-pubs; or
— Call the IRS toll-free at 800-829-3676 and ask for a copy of Publication 4134.

State bar associations, societies of accountants or enrolled agents, or other nonprofit tax professional organizations may also be able to provide referrals.

Click here for more questions, answers, and forms to assist.
…

COVID NEWS

Over 28,800 tests have been administered to IDOC residents in three states. More than 4,350 have identified positive and a total of six deaths have been reported as COVID-related.

Governor Little has expanded the current eligibility for the COVID vaccine to include all IDOC residents currently housed in Idaho. Approximately 600 have received their first shot and IDOC is working to obtain enough vaccine to provide immunization to any resident who wants it.

Because IDOC is unable to forecast which vaccine(s) will be delivered, they’ve provided residents with fact sheets for Moderna’s, Janssen’s, and Pfizer-BioNtech’s.

www.modernatx.com/covid19vaccine-eua
www.janssencovid19vaccine.com
www.cvdvaccine.com

Regrettably, we’re not informed of the progress Saguaro Correctional Center has made. If you have questions regarding those housed in Arizona, we recommend that you contact the IIFSG.

ACLU Idaho
PO Box 1987
Boise, ID 83701

When asked about returning to the pre-Covid rec schedule, Lt. Gibney stated that the Department will remain under cohort regulations until otherwise instructed by the state epidemiologist.

View IDOC’s COVID numbers here.
…

WE REGRET TO INFORM YOU

Last month, while visiting family in Utah, NICI Deputy Warden Brad Lutz passed away unexpectedly following a medical emergency.

Warden Lutz’s career in public service started with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, where he worked for three years before moving to Corrections in 1999. In addition to serving as NICI’s deputy warden, Brad also acted as the program manager.

He is survived by his wife and four children.

We join the Department in expressing their deepest sympathy for Warden Lutz’s family, as well as in asking that thoughts and prayers of strength and comfort find their way to those suffering from Brad’s untimely loss.
…

A LOOK AT IDOC’S AD-SEG REFORM (BY WAY OF GRIEVANCE)

Location: IMSI
Grievance Number: IM 210000080
Category: Conditions of Confinement
Offender: Irving 82431
Date received: 02/19/21

The problem is: Policy 319 (Restrictive Housing) requires “guidelines to ensure that inmates placed in restrictive housing (short-term or long-term) for a period in excess of 15 days will have opportunities for three hours or more per day time spent out of their cell.” These guidelines were never established.

I suggest the following solution: Please establish the guidelines that Policy 319 mentions so that your facility residents know what they have to look forward to in the future.

FAT LEVEL 1 — INITIAL RESPONSE by Lt. Justin Gibney

In response to Policy 319, IMSI introduced our Ad-Seg reform program. Initially IMSI introduced the use of programming chairs on the tiers. Residents were offered 1 hour out-of-cell time for recreation, as well as 1 hour in the programming chairs. However, this program was suspended shortly after its introduction, due to the increase of violent acts from the resident population while they were in the programming chairs.

IMSI looked at several other options including a table enclosure, on-the-tier enclosures, and the reintroduction of the programming chairs. However, shortly after these were completed, IDOC, and the world, was affected by COVID-19.

IMSI is still committed to Ad-Seg reform. However, at this time we still have positive cases of COVID-19 in our institution, and we are unable to implement these changes. I do not have an answer of how long COVID-19 will impact our daily operations, or the future of IMSI.

LEVEL 2 REVIEWING AUTHORITY RESPONSE by Captain Klinton Hust

Lt. Gibney is correct in his response. We are unable to accommodate this due to COVID-19 and practices that were put in place got people hurt rather than helped. Unfortunately the RHO states the time allotted, but we are unable to accommodate this right now.

OFFENDER APPEAL

Lt. Gibney states that only two hours out-of-cell time have ever been planned, yet the policy calls for three. A full year passed without mandate being put in place prior to COVID ever entering Idaho. Where some enclosures were installed months before COVID, they were never used, and there was time to install more. COVID simply does not excuse the full year pre-COVID that IDOC failed to abide–the policy was publicly approved in March of 2019. Policies exist to establish the rules, not to display the Department’s wishful thinking.

It should also be noted that this grievance intended to address the failure to provide reliable policy, not complain about Conditions of Confinement. That said, I consider myself at fault for the miscommunication, and ask that this grievance finish its process in the category it started, with the understanding that my issue will need to be refiled in the future.

LEVEL 3 APPELLATE AUTHORITY RESPONSE by Warden Tyrell Davis (3-12-2021)

I have reviewed the grievance and concur with the Level One and Two responses. We are currently in the process of assessing and reviewing Policy 319 as an agency.
…

RENICK ON THE RADIO

With over 100 episodes available for streaming, Mark Renick hosts Victory Over Sin on KBXL 94.1FM, Saturdays at 12:30 pm.

This month we were introduced to Deputy Director Bree Derrick, who offered some background on her education in psychology and holistic counseling, and touted the current administration’s commitment to exploring new approaches.

Local author Teresa Nickell, who wrote the “The Girl In My Wallet,” appeared on the show and opened up a bit with some of her history. From incarceration, through healing, to success as a business professional, Teresa’s story is one you can look forward to reading.

Michael Perry from St. Vincent de Paul’s Southwest Idaho advocacy arm stopped in to discuss his involvement in rolling out reentry services to Canyon County. Mike is available as a recovery coach/advisor–not a mentor or sponsor but a friend in transition. He will be opening an office in Region 3 this month, inside Canyon County St. Vincent de Paul’s thrift store. Region 3 residents are invited to stop by.

Speaking of new offices, those released from the Kuna desert are encouraged to stop by Mark and friends’ new office at 3217 W. Overland Rd. in Boise, M-F between 9-12 in the morning, and get set up with vouchers and information to help with their transition.

Those in the desert needing a lift can ask their case managers to call Renick’s team ahead their release date, so that they can pick you up and help you find their office.

Learn more about Renick and his efforts @ imsihopecommunityphaseii.com.
…

CPOF HELPS ICIO OFFICER WHOSE HOUSE WAS DAMAGED BY FIRE
by ICIO Lt. Greg Heun

Recently ICIO Officer Julia Senior receive a $500 check from the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPO) to help repair fire damages to their home. The money came from the CPO Catastrophic Assistance Program for those in the correctional profession and their families in time of emergency, crisis, or other dire need.

This past New Year’s Eve, the Seniors’ motorhome, parked next door to their home, caught on fire. The radiant heat caused severe damage to the side of their house. The Seniors were thankful their neighbors and the fire department responded quickly to the emergency and were able to help them save their home, but, unfortunately, their motorhome was a total loss. The money will go towards repairing the fire damage to their home.

Special thanks to Sergeant Kristi Parker from NICI and Corporal Lacy McClintock from ICIO. Both are IDOC representatives for the CPO foundation and submitted to the Foundation for the needed relief. The CPO Mission Statement reads: The purpose of the [CPO] is to operate and maintain a general fund for the perpetuation of the memory of those Correctional Peace Officers killed in the line of duty; to provide for their spouses, children or other beneficiaries; and to promote and project a positive image of the Corrections profession, both internally and to the general public. As one can see by their help to the Seniors, they go well beyond this in helping correctional staff in need.

I have been a member of the CPO for over 20 years and do a simple payroll deduction every month. As a member you receive a quarterly CPO magazine covering the work CPO is doing across the nation–especially for families of fallen corrections staff.

I encourage all correctional officers to contact their facility’s CPO representatives today!
….

FAT! BOOK DRIVE/REVIEW

For the last few months we’ve been promoting our book drive. Our goal this time? Persuading institutions of higher education to try and write off their outdated course materials as donations that help to improve their local prison libraries.

That said, we’ll welcome contributions from anyone, so long as they are sent from a retailer or publisher in accordance with IDOC’s mail policy.

To contribute to IMSI’s library, ship to:

Patrick Irving 82431
IMSI
PO Box 51
Boise, ID 83707

This month’s review was made possible by our friend Diamond Guitar-Judd with the IIFSG.

The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness
by Michelle Alexander

“Because mass incarceration is officially colorblind, it seems inconceivable that the system could function much like a racial caste system.” Which is why Alexander’s profoundly engaging, well-researched presentation is so incredibly important for understanding how it does.

From a justice system that disproportionately processes a very specific demographic, to the tactically implemented barriers preventing reintegration and reentry, Alexander offers more than just history but a course of in-betweens, and helps to evolve the reader’s understanding of how heinous systematic undertakings require tacit participation in ways that aren’t always understood.

Alexander successfully presented without emotional calls, which allowed this reader to easily digest her correlations and logic.

Following this review, this book was donated to the IMSI library, where we believe it will make a fine edition.
…

A RESPONSE TO INMATE SERVICES

[The 1-26-21 Inmate Services request appeared in our February Issue]

3-15-21

Mr. Irving,

I received your letter on 3-14-2021 regarding your “quest to uncover programs and resources” and I apologize that it has become somewhat of a frustrating process. I am not sure exactly what you are looking for but it seems like some pre-release programming and resources that might be available after your release.

Information regarding resources from the One Stop Reentry Center will need to be provided by the staff at the facility. As far as pre-release programs, those are facilitated by facility case managers and instructors. It looks like from the last part of your letter you are requesting information for becoming a Shaman for the Cult of Sexual Anarchy but I do not know to what you are referring. Perhaps you could discuss this with the VRC, Rob Wright for a bit more clarification.

Jeff Kirkman,
Program Manager
…

SUGGESTION BOX

Prior to spraying the next group of offenders for “refusing to return to their cells,” it is suggested that you first check to see if their cell doors are open. This might help eliminate any confusion over whether they’re defending themselves or trying to attack you.

This publication does not encourage violence.
…

Thank you for your audience. See you next month!

“Sure Shot”
— Beastie Boys

Next: First Amend This!: An IDOC Newsletter, May 2021

Dear Karl J. Friston 3-24-21

Greetings, sir! And wishes of health. I hope yours have fared through the year with minimal sorrow.

While attempting to be sensitive to all the unknown, I’d like to brief you on the newest results:

In a natural progression, the project that in part resulted from our correspondence has been finding nooks and crannies from great distances away. There’s not been a flood of activity, but all is high-value. I’ve been incorporated into the efforts of our National Lawyers Guild and our American Civil Liberties Union, and have started my own monthly publication, “First Amend This!: An IDOC Newsletter,” of which I am editor and main contributor, as a means to unpack reliable information upon legislators, advocates, attorneys and admins that respond to my signalling.

I’ve essentialy been working in solitary confinement for the last 16 months, and today I’m speaking in my shackles for 30 minutes to a nationwide audience (number unknown) of judges, lawyers, scholars and administrators @ the University of Idaho Video Law Symposium.

If you’re able to provide any more recommendations for materials that I can adapt to my efforts–anything, really–it would be greatly appreciated.

Best wishes, Karl. And thank you for helping me understand evolving gradients!

With reverence,
Patrick S. Irving
IMSI
PO Box 51
Boise, ID 83707
bookofirving82431.com

Missing Stimulus Payments For the Incarcerated? Questions and Answers

UPDATE 2-14-22

It may be the case that the “How To” handouts offered to large populations of prisoners filing tax returns in 2021 didn’t take into account the fact that many had yet to receive the 2020 EIP. For months I assumed I was waiting for the IRS to confirm my identity, but upon finally reaching a representative at the number listed on the 4883c letter, I learned that my identity was confirmed but I made a technical error: By marking 2021’s Line 30 with a zero, I was not indicating the payments I had received; I was indicating the total amount of 2020 EIPs that I was owed. I believe many others filled theirs out the same. Upon contacting the IRS I was asked to file an amended return for 2021, and list in Line 30 the amount of 2020’s EIP I am owed. I’ll update again as soon as I have new info.

[The following transcription came courtesy of Critical Resistance.]

This fact sheet contains legal information and not legal or tax advice. Laws and policies change. Please seek advice on your specific situation. This sheet is adapted from Root & Rebound Reentry Advocates in San Francisco. We are not tax experts.

IMPORTANT: If You Did Not Receive Economic Impact Payments (Stimulus Payments), you should act by May 17, 2021.

What are Economic Impact Payments (EIP)?

EIP are money from the government aimed at helping people and the economy due to COVID-19. They are also called “stimulus checks” or “stimulus payments.” There have been two sets of payments so far: EIP1 in 2020 and EIP2 in 2021.

What is the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC)?

The RRC is a credit you can request on a 2020 1040 tax form to get the money you qualified for but did not receive for EIP1 and EIP2.

Who is eligible for the Recover Rebate Credit (RRC)?

You are eligible to get the RRC if you satisfy all of the following requirements:

–You were a U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident in 2020, and
–You have a valid Social Security Number, and
–You are not claimed as a dependent on another person’s 2020 tax return, and
–The IRS did not already send you the full amount you are entitled for both Economic Impact Payments

***Incarcerated people can qualify for RRC and you do not need a job or earnings above a certain amount.

Note: If part or all of your payment was taken by [your Department of Corrections] or the IRS because of restitution or outstanding child support, you cannot ask for that money back with the RRC.

How do I get the Recovery Rebate Credit?

If you qualify, you must file a 2020 tax form to the IRS and request a RRC on line 30 of the form. Your mail must be postmarked by May 17, 2021 unless you get an extension. This is the process even if you would not otherwise need to file taxes. A sample form and instructions from the IRS is [attached]. This sample applies only to people with an income in 2020 below $12,400 and who are filing the form individually. If your income was higher or you are filing jointly with a spouse, you will need to follow the general IRS instructions or get help from a tax professional. You possibly could get help from a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (1-800-906-9887).

If I am eligible, how much money do I get?

The RRC is for the amount of money you should have received for EIP1 plus EIP2 (but now based on your 2020 income), minus any payment you did receive (EIP1 + EIP2 – payments received). A worksheet from the IRS for figuring out the amount you should get is [attached]. Individual Filers: If you had an income under $75,000, EIP1 is for $1,200, plus $500 per qualifying child. EIP2 is for $600, plus $600 per qualifying child. If your income was higher, you may qualify for EIP1 and EIP2, but for less money. Joint Filers: If you had a joint income under $150,000, EIP1 is for $2,400, plus $500 per qualifying child. EIP2 is for $1,200, plus $600 per qualifying child. If your income was higher, you may still qualify for EIP1 and EIP2, but for less money. (Note: Your payments also will be lower if your spouse does not have a Social Security Number, unless one of you served in the Armed Forces in 2020.)

I was eligible for the EIP1, but the IRS did not send me the payment. What can I do?

The IRS did not process all of the claims they received in 2020, even those sent on time. Although it is unfair, according to the IRS, you will need to file a 2020 tax form and request the RRC on line 30 of the form to get the payment(s) you are eligible for that they did not already send you. Please see “How do I get Recovery Rebate Credit?” above.

The IRS sent a debit card for my EIP2, which correctional officers will not give to me. How can I get my money?

The IRS made this mistake for many people. Even so, it is requiring people in this situation to file a 2020 1040 tax form and request the RRC to get the EIP2. Please see “How do I get these payments?” above.

I received EIP1, but after that I moved. I did not receive EIP2. What can I do?

According to the IRS, you should not file a change of address form because the IRS will not send a new check due to a change of address. Instead, you can get the second payment by filing a 2020 1040 tax form and requesting the RRC–if EIP2, sent to the wrong address, was returned to the IRS. Please see “How do I get the Recovery Rebate Credit?” above. If the IRS sent to the wrong address but it was not returned, you can file a Payment Trace (Form 3911) with the IRS, in addition to the 2020 1040 tax form requesting the RRC. A Payment Trace is meant to lead the IRS to investigate what happened to payments not returned to the IRS.

Some or all of my Economic Impact Payment(s) were collected to pay child support, restitution, or other debts. Was that right?

For EIP1, the IRS was allowed to take out child support, and jails and prisons were allowed to take out restitution or other debts. EIP2 generally should not have had child support, restitution, or other debts taken out. It is not yet certain whether debts can be taken out of the RRC.

I received a letter from the IRS asking me to verify my identity. What should I do?

The IRS sent a letter to some people, stating that they must verify their identity to get stimulus payments by calling a phone number and providing detailed information, both of which often cannot be done from jails or prisons. As of now, there is sadly no clear solution. If you cannot make the call, you could try to prove your identity by mail with a letter:

— explaining why you cannot verify your identity over the phone, and

— asking the IRS to accept the enclosed information or contact your institution to verify your identity, and enclosing copies of everything that helps support you are who you say you are, such as (if possible):

*all forms of ID, including a letter from a correctional officer certifying/confirming your identity; the 2019 EIP1 from you sent the IRS and a copy of an old tax return; previous addresses the IRS may have had for you. Also, loved ones on the outside could try asking a low income tax clinic for help (1-877-777-4778).

I am incarcerated and I received a notice from the IRS saying that the payment was sent to me, but I never received it. What can I do?

If the prison returned it to the IRS, then you can send the IRS a 2020 1040 tax form requesting the RRC. Please see “How do I get these payments?” above. If you believe your jail/prison has your money, you can file a request (if in CDCR, a form 22) or go through the grievance process (if in CDCR, a form 602). Attach a copy of any proof you have. You can also file a Payment Trace (Form 3911) with the IRS to investigate what happened to payments not returned to the IRS. To meet the May 17, 2021 deadline, you can file the 2020 1040 form before a payment trace is complete.

I received a letter from the IRS saying my second stimulus payment was taken to pay for 2007 taxes. Was that right?

According to the IRS, if you received a letter saying that your second stimulus payment was collected (“offset”) to pay for 2007 taxes, it was a mistake. The money was not collected for 2007 taxes. If eligible, to get your payment, file a 2020 1040 tax form and request the RRC. Please see “How do I get these payments?” above.

Can my loved one file the tax return for me?

The IRS generally has not given permission for loved ones on the outside to file a tax return for an incarcerated person. Contact the IRS or a tax professional for information specific to you and for questions about power of attorney.

We are sure that you and your friends will have questions. If you can, ask a loved one to contact the IRS at 1-800-919-9835 (general information about RRC) or 1-800-829-1040 (taxpayer help line). Critical Resistance cannot advise you on how to fill out tax forms or check the status of your RRC.

Please help others: If you are allowed, please post this information and share extra forms, so as many people as possible can get the EIP they are entitled to.

Remember, we are not tax experts, and have limited capacity to respond to inquiries. Thank you!

If you do reply, address:
c/o Stimulus Check
Critical Resistance
1904 Franklin St., Ste. 504
Oakland, CA 94612

Critical Resistance does not have members that are tax experts. We have mobilized to send these forms and instructions to prisoners because we believe that prisoners deserve to have their material needs met, and most principally, deserve freedom. We wish you luck in getting your EIP!

[The following was added to this post 3-29-21]

Example form 1040: Form 1040 example

IRS letter requesting identity verification (transcribed below): IRS Identiity verification letter

Dear Taxpayer,

We received an income tax return, Form 1040, for the tax year above using your name an Social Security Number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). To protect you from possible identity theft, we need to verify your identity before we process the income tax return, issue a refund or credit any overpayments to your account.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO IMMEDIATELY

Call us at 800-830-5084 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., local time within 30 days of this letter. If you filed an income tax return, have the documents listed below. When you call, we’ll ask questions to verify your identity.

To expedite the process when you call, you MUST have all of the following:

— This letter
— The income tax return for the year shown above (Form 1040, 1040A, 1040-EZ, 1040-PR, 1040-NR, 1040-SR, etc.).
— A prior year income tax return.
— Any supporting documents for each year’s income tax return, (Forms W-2 or 1099, Schedules C and F, etc.) that you filed with your income tax return.

If we can’t verify your identity over the phone, we will ask you to schedule an appointment at your local IRS office to verify in person.

IF you choose to authorize someone to represent you before the IRS, complete form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative. We encourage you to be available with your representative on the call. If you choose to have someone else assist you on the call, you must call us together and you must participate on the call. For more information about Form 2848, visit our website at www.irs.gov/forms-pubs or call 800-829-1040.

After you’ve successfully verified your identity it may take up to 9 weeks to receive your refund. If there are other issues, you may receive a notice requesting additional information, which will extend the dat by which you’ll receive your refund or receive a credit of any overpayment to your account.

WHERE YOU CAN GO FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Visit www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-letter-4883c-or-6330c for more information about this letter.

Visit www.irs.gov/identity-theft-central for more information about identity theft

The Taxpayer Adocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers and protects taxpayers’ rights. TAS can offer you help if your tax problem is causing financial difficulty, you’ve tied but been unable to resolve your problem with the IRS, or you believe an IRS system, process, or procedure isn’t working as it should. If you qualify for TAS assistance, which is always free, TAS will do everything possible to help you. To learn more, visit www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov or call 877-777-4778.

Tax professionals who are independent from the IRS may be able to help you.

State bar associations, state or or local societies of accountants or enrolled agents, or other nonprofit tax professional organizations may also be able to provide referrals.

UPDATE

8-4-21

After filing the Central Authorization Form (CAF) to give a family member the power to represent me, my representative was instucted over the phone, per the IRS internal policy for Taxpayer protection program basis authentication procedures 25.25.6.3, to have me write a written request to complete the identify verification and include the following:

A copy of the 4883C letter
Name
Date of Birth
SSN
Inmate ID (and location, presumably)

Send to:
Internal Revenue Service
3651 IH35
Stop 6579AUSC
Austin, TX 73301

Though this information conflicts with the instructions given in the 4883C letter I was sent to verify my identity, I suspect it wouldn’t hurt to take this step in addition to those recommended in the 4883C letter.

Well, shit…, No. 3

I suppose I’m more of a writer than I am a symposium speaker..

Invitation to U of Idaho Video Law Symposium

[Post symposium update – the session video can be viewed here]

Incarcerating The Masses: A Critical Examination of America’s Prison Problem.
Presented by by the Idaho Law Review

Discussions are free to attend, begin Tuesday Mar. 23 and continue through Mar. 25.

Patrick is scheduled to speak during the Wednesday 3PM MDT discussion “Perspectives from the Inside: A Conversation with Idaho’s Incarcerated Persons.”

Attendance is encouraged!

View details and sign up to participate here.