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| Correction Department refuses to release former inmates' records |
| By Associated Press |
| Published: 04/05/2004 |
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The Connecticut Department of Correction is refusing to release information about former inmates to those requesting it over the telephone. Officials instituted the policy two weeks ago. Previously, callers requesting information about former inmates were told the person's inmate number, birth date, prison location, charges, bond amounts, sentence date, admission date, minimum sentence and maximum release date. Correction Department spokesman Ed Ramsey said the department is concerned the information could be used to discriminate against people seeking housing or employment. Information about current inmates is still available. Ramsey said the policy mirrors the department's Internet link to inmate information, which only gives information about current inmates. Teresa Younger, executive director of Connecticut's American Civil Liberties Union, agreed with the policy change. "I think that by limiting who has access to who has previously served their time does make sense," she said. Former inmates should not be penalized by landlords or employers for their crimes, she said. The department has never released an inmate's full criminal history, Correction Department spokeswoman Stacy Smith said. That can be obtained from the state Department of Public Safety for a $25 fee. |
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