Author Discusses Pandemic’s Impact On Those In Prison And Their Families

Journalist and author of “The Shadow System,” Sylvia A. Harvey, recently joined “Closer Look” to discuss COVID-19’s impact on people in prison and their families.

According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, as of April 26, 799 federal inmates and 319 federal prison staff members have confirmed positive test results for COVID-19 nationwide.

And, as the number of confirmed cases among detainees continues to rise, some advocates have expressed concerns about the heightened risks people in prison face.

As a result, some local authorities have taken steps to either release prisoners early or reduce arrests. Still, what other steps can be taken to flatten the curve in our nation’s prisons and jails?

On Monday’s edition of “Closer Look,” journalist Sylvia A. Harvey, joined host Rose Scott to discuss the factors that make prisoners a vulnerable population during the pandemic. They also discuss Harvey’s new book, “The Shadow System,” which explores mass incarceration’s impact on American families.

Guest:

Sylvia A. Harvey is a New York-based journalist and author of the new book “The Shadow System: Mass Incarceration and the American Family."
Sylvia A. Harvey is a New York-based journalist and author of the new book “The Shadow System: Mass Incarceration and the American Family.”

To listen to the full conversation, click on the audio player above.