Several Arizona state prisons will remain on lockdown through April 20, Easter Sunday, due to ongoing security concerns.
The lockdown is part of a broader set of measures announced by the Arizona Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. According to the agency’s website, its “operational response to prison violence” includes the Easter weekend lockdowns among other steps aimed at maintaining safety.
“I recognize that the effects of incarceration are felt by families, far beyond the prison walls. Your concern for your loved ones propels forward our action, their safety remains our highest priority. The strategies we are implementing are necessary to ensure this,” said Ryan Thornell, director of the Arizona Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
The Arizona Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation posted on their website the following units will be on lockdown with no visitation:
Arizona State Prison Complex-Eyman’s Rynning unit
Arizona State Prison Complex-Lewis’ Buckley, Morey and Rast units
Arizona State Prison Complex-Tucson’s Cimarron unit
Arizona State Prison Complex-Winslow’s Kaibab unit
Arizona State Prison Complex-Yuma’s Dakota unit
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The affected units will be closed due to unspecified security concerns, though the Arizona Department of Corrections did not provide details on the nature of those concerns. Attorney and court-ordered visits will still be permitted during the lockdown, according to the department.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona prisons under lockdown on Easter weekend amid security fears