Conjugal Visits Still Causing Controversy

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – A Memphis-based civil rights group and a Mississippi prisoners’ advocacy group will lead a rally in Jackson against Mississippi Department of Corrections Commissioner Chris Epps’ decision to end conjugal visits for state inmates.

Last month, Epps announced he would early this year stop the more than a century-old practice of allowing conjugal visits for inmates.

Epps’ decision came after a state legislator said he was going to reintroduce a bill this legislative session to end conjugal visits.

The Clarion-Ledger reports (http://on.thec-l.com/KsKI37) the Mississippi Advocates for Prisoners group is also opposed to Epps’ decision and has started a petition drive. MAP is encouraging family members and other supporters to come out for the rally, which will be on Jan. 17.