Are There Secret U.S. Prisons?

Allegations and reports suggest that there exist secret or undisclosed U.S. prisons, often referred to as black sites. While the specifics are not fully disclosed, these facilities have raised significant legal and ethical concerns. In this article, we delve into known instances of secret detention and the impact they have had on human rights and the treatment of detainees.

Investigations and Reports

Investigations reveal that one of the most well-known instances involving secret prisons occurred during the post-9/11 era. Some detainees were held in secret locations around the world, including countries not publicly acknowledged by the U.S. government. The existence of these facilities often brings to light issues such as human rights violations and the treatment of detainees.

Secret Detention Practices

Legitimate institutions like real prisons have clear protocols and prison guards who are trained and carry state permits. Secretive detention practices, however, can be shrouded in controversy. Law enforcement agencies within the U.S. are reportedly involved in such secretive detention practices, though these are less documented. The operational details and extent of these facilities are often not publicly disclosed, contributing to the perception of secrecy.

Communications Management Units (CMU)

Will Potter, an investigative journalist, gained access to Communications Management Units (CMUs) within U.S. prisons. These units were opened under the radar and significantly alter the treatment of prisoners. For instance, CMUs have been known to prevent prisoners from hugging their children and possibly other forms of physical contact with loved ones. Potter, who is also a TED Fellow, sheds light on who is imprisoned in these units and the government's efforts to keep them hidden.

Secret Prison Locations and Conditions

Information about these secret prisons is sketchy, but known locations include:

The Salt Pit in Afghanistan: Used to be a brick factory that was turned into a black site. Cells are small, without windows or toilets. Prisoners are stripped naked and made to sleep on cold concrete floors. Loud music is played continuously as a form of psychological torture. Guantanamo Bay: Already infamous, it also has its own secret prisons, such as Camp 7, which was built in a hidden location away from the main prison. Another such place is Penny Lane, opened in 2003 and reserved for confirmed terrorists undergoing training as double agents. Detention Site Green (Cat’s Eye) in Thailand: This secret CIA prison was reportedly shut down in December 2002 after inmates were moved to a prison in Poland. Temara Interrogation Center: Jointly operated by the CIA and Moroccan government, it was originally a CIA-run secret interrogation center but was converted into a prison. A secret CIA prison at the base in Djibouti called Camp Lemonnier: While unconfirmed, there are claims of a secret prison there. The US Congress reportedly has information but has not declassified it.

Conclusion

The existence of these secret prisons raises serious concerns about human rights and the treatment of detainees. While details are limited, these facilities have garnered significant attention and scrutiny. Further investigations are needed to ensure transparency and protect individual rights.

Key Takeaways

Secret U.S. prisons often referred to as black sites. Significant legal and ethical issues surrounding their existence. Examples include The Salt Pit in Afghanistan, Guantanamo Bay's Camp 7, and Detention Site Green (Cat’s Eye) in Thailand. Mitigation of transparency and human rights.

Despite the restricted nature of these prisons, ongoing investigations and revelations continue to shed light on their operations and the conditions they impose.