Carpino Proposal Would Lock Death Row Inmates in Segregation

CROMWELL- State Rep. Christie Carpino (Cromwell and Portland) wants inmates previously eligible for death row to be segregated from other prisoners permanently.

The proposed bill, HB-5081, would require that individuals convicted of the class A felony of murder with special circumstances, and sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of release, to serve out their sentences in similar living conditions as inmates on death row. These are criminals sentenced as a result of a violent murder and other heinous acts like rape, kidnapping or arson.

“My constituents are concerned future violent criminals, those we deem “the worst of the worst” will have no deterrent if put in general population instead of a severe segregation similar to those currently on death row,” said Carpino.

In December, Carpino toured both the Supermax prison in Somers and the level four facility in Cheshire to get a firsthand look at the prison structure and security.

“While the legislature voted to repeal the death penalty, there was no agreement that future capital felony murderers should be placed in the general prison population. They should not be permitted to socialize and mix with other inmates. If you commit a violent and heinous act, you should face a severe penalty. Socializing with other prisoners, lifting weights together or having a job in prison should not be options.” said Carpino.

Carpino hopes to have a Judiciary Committee public hearing on this bill in the next few months.