Aaron Hernandez Arraignment, Jail Time is 'Torture' Says Advocacy group
The American Civil Liberties Union says Aaron Hernandez is being subjected to torture by being placed in solitary confinement for 20 hours a day while he awaits trail, Yahoo reports.
A post on the ACLU's website expressed concern for Hernandez's mental health due to the long stretches of time he spends alone. The advocacy group pointed out that Hernandez hasn't been found guilt of any crime, but yet he is being subjected to circumstances that many consider "torture."
"Regardless of what you think of Aaron Hernandez, it's important to take a minute and remember he has not yet been convicted - in the eyes of the law, he is still innocent until proven guilty," ACLU.org wrote. "But, while awaiting trial, he has been locked alone in a small room with little or no human interaction for over 20 hours a day."
While prison officials say Hernandez is being kept away from the the general population for his owm safety because of his high profile as a celebrity, the ACLU argues that his solitary confinement can result in emotional damage. Hernandez may have to live in relative isolation for another year until his trial date. He was denied bail on two occasions because the judge presiding over his case said the prosecution has a strong case against the former New England Patriots player.
The ACLU said that a person who faces extreme seclusion can struggle with depression and even hallucinate. The psychological damage can be irreversible, according to the advocacy group. The ACLU is using Hernandez's celebrity to draw attention to the 80,000 prisoners they say are currently in solitary confinement in penitentiaries throughout the country. They also pointed out thtat there's a growing international movement that recognizes isolation as a form of torture.
Hernandez pleaded not guilty to murder and gun charges and is being held at the county jail in Dartmouth, where Sheriff Thomas Hodgson said he is acclimating well and being held alone in a cell. He gets an hour of outdoor recreation a day, an hour to shower and make phone calls, and an hour to talk to visitors per day, according to ABC 15.
