The director of the Marseille prison Baumettes and the deputy head of the prison, both under death threats, have been temporarily removed from their duties and are subject to protection measures, Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported on friday, December 6, quoting ” concordant sources” who confirm the newspaper’s details The Marseillaise.
the Ministry of Justice, which described the situation as“exceptionally serious and serious”informed AFP that the Justice Minister had personally spoken to the prison officers concerned “and assured them of his protection and support”. The judge was the Keeper of the Seals Didier Migaud “inadmissible” that the staff members under his responsibility “they are therefore threatened in the exercise of their functions”.
The death threats were allegedly made in the context of a “CONTRACT” by a prisoner suspected of belonging to a drug trafficking gang, we learned Wednesday from a source close to the case. He then spoke about the guards union FO-Justice“an unprecedented threshold”.
The alleged executors of this contract were arrested in the night between Sunday and Monday, again according to this source. The prisoner behind the contract, an alleged member of the DZ mafia, was also arrested.
Drug trafficking-related violence in the Marseille region has resulted in 23 deaths since January, according to an AFP report.By 2023, drug banditry had cost the lives of 49 people in Marseille, against the backdrop of a turf battle between the DZ mafia and Yoda, the former having finally gained the upper hand.
How can prison reform improve safety for staff and inmates alike?
Interview with Dr. Emily Couret, Prison and Criminal Justice Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. couret. We want to dive into the alarming situation surrounding the Marseille prison, Baumettes, where both the director and deputy head have reportedly received death threats. Can you provide some background on this incident?
Dr. Emily Couret: Thank you for having me. This incident is indeed severe and highlights a troubling trend in the intersection of organized crime and prison safety. The threats originated from a prisoner involved in drug trafficking, linked to a notorious gang, which suggests that not only are guards at risk, but the entire correctional system is under strain from external pressures.
Time.news Editor: The Ministry of Justice has described the situation as “exceptionally serious.” Why is it so significant that prison staff face threats while executing their duties?
Dr. Emily Couret: It’s pivotal because it undermines the integrity of the justice system. When staff members are threatened, it generates a culture of fear that can lead to a compromised ability to enforce rules and rehabilitate inmates. Furthermore, the acknowledgment of these threats by the Minister of Justice is a vital step in addressing the safety of prison personnel. Ensuring their protection is crucial for maintaining order and focus within correctional facilities.
Time.news Editor: The article mentions that drug trafficking-related violence in Marseille has claimed numerous lives in 2023. How do conflicts among drug cartels influence prison dynamics?
Dr. Emily Couret: The influence of organized crime extends well into the prison surroundings. Conflicts among gangs can escalate tensions within and outside of prison walls. in this case, the ongoing turf war between the DZ mafia and Yoda gang adds layers of risk for prison staff and inmates alike. Prisons can become battlegrounds for these gangs, and when members feel threatened, they may resort to extreme measures, such as orchestrating threats against prison staff to assert control.
Time.news Editor: What can be done to enhance the safety of prison staff in light of these threats?
Dr. Emily Couret: First and foremost, enhancing security protocols within prisons is essential. This includes better monitoring systems and communication channels between guards and higher authorities. Additionally, offering psychological support to staff who face such traumatic experiences is crucial. Training programs focused on conflict resolution and crisis management can empower staff to navigate risky encounters more effectively.
Time.news Editor: The situation in Marseille illuminates broader issues concerning criminal justice policies. What strategies do you recommend for policymakers to address these challenges?
Dr. Emily Couret: Policymakers need to look at complete reforms that address the root causes of drug trafficking and gang violence.Investing in community programs that provide alternatives to criminal activities can help divert individuals from gangs. Furthermore, increasing resources for law enforcement, alongside mental health services within prisons, can mitigate some of the risks faced by staff.It’s about creating a system that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment—this shift can definitely help reduce the influence of gangs within prisons.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Couret, for your invaluable insights on this critical issue. As the situation in Marseille continues to unfold, what should readers take away from this discussion?
Dr. Emily Couret: Readers should understand that the crisis in Marseille’s prisons is indicative of a larger systemic issue. It’s a call to action for society to recognize the dangers faced by correctional staff and the need for comprehensive approaches to crime that involve prevention, rehabilitation, and safety measures. Our justice system’s efficacy relies on the protection of all its members, especially those on the front lines like prison staff.
Time.news Editor: Thank you once again for this enlightening conversation, Dr. Couret. Your expertise helps shed light on an urgent matter affecting many within the criminal justice system.
Dr. Emily couret: It was my pleasure.Thank you for shedding light on these vital issues.