Life of a Smoker in Prison: Restrictions, Black Market and Personal Experiences

Introduction

Prisons are generally designated as non-smoking zones to protect the overall health and well-being of inmates, staff, and visitors. However, the reality can vary significantly depending on the prison's policies, physical conditions, and the individuals involved. This article explores the use of smoking in prisons, the challenges faced by inmates, and the role of the black market in providing tobacco products.

Typical Policies and Practices

Most prisons in the United States adhere to strict no-smoking policies to maintain a healthier environment. Despite these policies, there are instances where smoking is allowed, especially in certain areas of the facility. These exceptions are more common in lockup areas where long-term inmates are housed. For example, at one facility where I worked, some inmates were permitted to purchase cigarettes from the commissary, but this was the exception rather than the rule.

Smoking in Certain Areas

In some lockup areas, long-term inmates would often gather in their cells to smoke. This activity was mostly left unenforced by officers, as interfering with it could potentially be very dangerous. This highlights the chaotic and often violent environment that can prevail in these areas, where officers might face significant risks if they attempt to enforce the rule.

Personal Experiences and Anecdotes

My personal experience with smoking in prison dates back to a time when there were virtually no restrictions. At one facility, I witnessed a scenario that dramatically illustrated the absurdity and danger of attempting to enforce smoking policies.

Violent Consequences for Officers

Once, an inexperienced officer from a new recruit class arrived at the facility. He was eager to make a good impression and decided to crack down on smoking, claiming it wasn't adhering to facility rules. Within a week, this same officer was found in a secret room with a piece of metal or plastic protruding from his chest. This emphasizes the severe risks officers face when attempting to enforce such policies. The entire facility was described as a "hellhole" with a medevac helicopter evacuating both officers and inmates every three days. This is by no means an exaggeration, given the severity of the situation.

Black Market Smoking Products

Despite the no-smoking policies, smoking becomes a pervasive and unavoidable reality in prisons. Some inmates resort to the black market to obtain cigarettes. Inmates frequently find ways to elicit help from their cellmates, smuggle in cigarettes, or even arrange trades from the prison staff to access tobacco.

A Personal Tale of Smuggling and Distribution

I recall a particularly amusing incident that took place years ago. At one prison with no restrictions over smoking, I did smoke despite having no money. The key here is that my cellmate, who was involved in cigarette smuggling, arranged for a pack of cigarettes to be passed to me through the jailer. Interestingly, the arrangement was made through the jailer, demonstrating the complex web of relationships and exchanges that often exist within prison walls.

My personal aversion to smoking meant that I did not find cigarettes particularly appealing, yet I still accepted the offer. This incident underscores the role of the black market in providing essential goods, like tobacco, to inmates who desire to smoke.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the smoking dynamics in prisons are complex and often defy strict regulations. While policies are in place to maintain a healthier environment, neglected enforcement and the existence of the black market ensure that smoking remains a prevalent activity. Understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone working in or researching corrections and can provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by prison administrators and inmates alike.