Daniel Gwynn Blog Update
Date: 7/24/16
Subject: "Tethering"

On 7/12/16, the guards informed us that they were ordered by the local facility management to tether us when being escorted anywhere outside of our cells. They also must carry batons at all times. There's been no misconduct or incident on our part that warranted this blatant abuse of power. Deputy Zaken & his cronies have interpreted a "Use of Force" policy to justify their illegal actions. The policy states: "Upon completion of the strip search, the inmate shall be handcuffed in accordance with Department Policy DC-ADM 201, Use of Force: A tether may be used if the inmate's behavior warrants it."

Every 90 days I've been subjected to review by the Management Team. For the past 20 years, not one report reflected any behavior problems nor has there been any incidents on the block that would warrant this kind of excessive force. Even Superintendent Gilmore (stated in interview w/ J. Murphy, reporter at pennlive.com) praised the capital cases for how quiet & calm it has been. Also because there's been no attack on staff like out in population.

The dehumanization & humiliation was instantaneous and my ancestors' 200 years of rage coursed through my being as I shouted, "I'm not some fucking animal, walking me around like a dog on a leash!" The guard apologized and said that he was following orders and feared losing his job if he didn't. I turned to look into his eyes and could see the sadness & humiliation in his eyes. I told him that as long as people like him remain silent, the malfeasance of the upper management will continue to flourish while we suffer. Albeit these fears are justified: so long as these malefactors continue to thrive, peace will never be achieved. How can we expect our children & their children to have a prosperous future?

We've filed our grievances and informed our families of the mistreatment. I've asked people to contact Superintendent Gilmore at SCI-Greene and Secretary John Wetzel at the PA-DOC to ask them why the capital cases are being treated this way. I ask that you make the call as well to show your support.

Daniel Gwynn