MYSTERIOUS RESEARCH PROJECT BEING CONDUCTED AT THE ISCC

On the morning of Saturday, May 21st prisoners woke to a posted memo seeking inmate volunteers for a "research project", though there is no indication what the research consists of, what will be done with the data, and more importantly, by who (or is it "whom?) it is sponsored.

Idaho law does allow information and data about prisoners and their families/friends (including the most sensitive data) to be used for research, though IDOC draws the line at (physical) medical/pharmaceutical/cosmetic research and trials (IDOC Policy 134.05.07.00).

Years ago, at the IMSI, a (non-security) staff member passed out questionnaires to prisoners and ordered they be filled out. Although the document stated inmates were not required to identify themselves, the staff member noted prisoner's names and cell numbers on the paperwork as she collected the completed documents.

Although Department employees may conduct research on prisoners (without a written proposal) it was subsequently learned that the staff member provided the data to a family member to use in a college thesis (without permission from prison administrators or prisoners), and only thereafter provided the data to prison authorities. Many of the questions answered by prisoners were self-incriminating.

Regardless, there's no doubt there will be more than enough prisoners who will volunteer for the unknown research project. Let's just hope they don't regret it.

[HERE'S THE TEXT OF THE MEMO - AS WRITTEN]

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WE'RE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS TO HELP SHAPE CORRECTIONS!

If you would would like to participate, submit a concern form to Deputy Warden McKay by Wednesday, May 25.

ISCC is participating in research about incarceration, and we need your help!

Researchers are looking for 150 men, age 18 or older, who can read and write English to participate.

WHAT IS IT?

A study that aims to improve services provided to justice-involved (incarcerated) individuals.

Researchers will be at the facility May 25-27 to meet with residents in multipurpose rooms and classrooms.

WHAT IS REQUIRED?

Meet with researchers and answer their questions.

Let staff know you want to participate (send a concern form to DW McKay by Wednesday, May 25)

WHAT IS THE OUTCOME?

Your answers to the questions will help us better understand incarcerated people and their experiences.

The results will help the researchers and research sponsors improve the services provided to incarcerated individuals.