These are 5 of the Worst Prisons in New Jersey

The state of New Jersey has a network of 22 correctional facilities scattered throughout the state.  There are nine main facilities, and 13 RCRP or Residential Community Release Program facilities (halfway houses).

Average Sentences Served In NJ Prisons

According to a report on prisonsinfo.com, the New Jersey prison system is home to over 20,000 inmates.  Inmates serving 6 years make up approximately 47% of the population, 5 years 17%, and Nine years 33%, with roughly 3% serving longer sentences.

These are some of the worst prisons in the state.  While prison isn't meant to be a luxury vacation, inmates should be afforded some basic human necessities.

The facilities named in the report, are said to lack in the area of personal hygiene issues, continuing dangerous gang activity, and excessive force by corrections officers.

It's understandable why people would lack empathy for inmates.  However, as advocates point out, many of these prisoners will be re-entering our society.  It only makes sense to make an effort to reform these individuals.

The Worst Correctional Facilities in NJ

South Woods State Prison  

Home to close to 3,500 inmates, this prison in Bridgeton is said to have serious gang troubles.  According to the report, gang activity is based on ethnicity, and if you don't belong to one of the groups, life can be extremely dangerous.

Garden State Youth Correctional Facility

This facility houses inmates between the ages of 18-30.  While this facility has earned recognition for its work to reform its residents, the knock-on facility is its physical location.  It's said to be built on toxic land that has resulted in inmates claiming health issues.

Bayside State Prison

The report states that gang violence is rampant in this facility.  In addition, Bayside has a reputation for having a high rate of sexual violence.

Southern State Prison

Southern State is another New Jersey correctional facility that has a reputation for gang violence.  This prison houses its inmates in dormitories rather than cells.  This has made it difficult for officers to control the inmates.  A few years ago, gangs attempted to take over the prison.  This resulted in guards being injured.

East Jersey State Prison

This is one of New Jersey's most notorious prisons.  It's been the site of riots, gang violence, and sexual assaults.  This is also New Jersey's second oldest prison, having opened in 1901.

7 Worst Prisons in The State of New Jersey (prisonsinfo.com)