Inmate Voices Fear for Life After Controversial Transfer to Angola

• Derrick Woodberry feels unsafe after being transferred to Angola.
• Woodberry previously reported unsafe conditions and is now at risk.
• Alicia Pellegrin voiced concerns for Woodberry’s safety.
• Woodberry was attacked at Angola before being moved for safety.
• Department of Corrections claims the transfer was for safety reasons.
• The timing of the transfer raises legal questions according to a judge.

Inmate fears for safety after whistleblower transfer to Angola

In a troubling development, Derrick Woodberry, an inmate at Elayn Hunt Correctional Center, has voiced concerns over his safety following what appears to be a retaliatory transfer to the notorious Angola prison. Woodberry, who had previously disclosed unsafe conditions within Hunt, now fears for his life and suspects that prison officials may be targeting him as punishment for his whistleblowing efforts. “He is worried for his safety. He feels like they are out to kill him essentially,” stated Alicia Pellegrin, a friend of Woodberry’s, in a recent interview. This alarming situation raises fundamental questions about the protection of inmates who take a stand against corruption and unsafe practices in the correctional system.

Contradictory reasons offered for dangerous transfer

Woodberry’s transfer to Angola is particularly concerning given his past experiences there. He was violently attacked by another inmate, Kendall Davis, back in 2019 while he was incarcerated in Angola. Following that brutal incident, he was moved to Hunt to ensure his safety. Ironically, his recent move back to Angola has placed him once again in proximity to Davis, whom he identifies as a known enemy. Despite being warned about the risks, the Department of Corrections justified their decision, claiming it was made for “safety and security reasons.” However, this rationale seems contradictory given Woodberry’s documented enemies list, which does not currently include Davis, although earlier versions did.

Legal concerns raised over inmate’s transfer timing

Legal representatives have raised concerns about the implications of Woodberry’s rapid transfer, particularly since it occurred just before depositions linked to his lawsuit against the Department of Corrections are set to take place. During a recent status conference, Middle District Magistrate Judge Richard Bourgeois expressed skepticism about the timing of the transfer, suggesting that it raises serious questions regarding potential misconduct. Furthermore, the State Police have initiated an inquiry into both the reasons for the transfer and whether there has been any tampering with Woodberry’s enemies list. This situation highlights the ongoing struggles inmates face when they report issues within the prison system and serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater protections for whistleblowers.

The situation surrounding Derrick Woodberry reflects ongoing issues within the correctional system, particularly regarding the treatment of inmates who report unsafe conditions. The apparent lack of concern for Woodberry’s well-being raises serious ethical questions about punitive measures against whistleblowers. As inquiries continue into the circumstances of his transfer, the emphasis on the need for accountability and protection for inmates who speak out could not be clearer.