Navigating the Toxic Playground Mentality in Prison Life
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Chapter 1: The Playground Mentality in Prison
Reflecting on my time in prison, I can't help but liken it to a middle school playground rather than a high school cafeteria, despite common comparisons. The environment is rife with the same elements: cliques, bullies, and particularly the spread of rumors. However, the stakes are significantly higher, and the consequences of this behavior can be far more severe.
In my previous writing, I discussed my experiences during the first six months of my incarceration and touched on an ongoing issue where I've become the target of gossip within my unit.
Dealing With Depression in Juvenile Prison | Inside Prison Documentary Interview
This video provides a raw insight into the mental health challenges faced by young inmates, highlighting the deep-seated issues that contribute to the prison environment's toxicity.
Section 1.1: Misconceptions and Reality
During my time in county jail, I witnessed an older inmate being labeled a sex offender simply because he kept to himself and avoided entanglements with others. In researching prison life before my arrival, both Demeter and I came across numerous forum discussions indicating that inmates are often asked to present documentation of their charges upon arrival. However, my experience has shown me that this is not universally applicable, particularly in North Carolina.
The truth is, many inmates, including myself, may enter without any paperwork detailing their charges. After being released on bond, I returned to county jail without any documentation. Following my court proceedings, I was classified as "serving time" without the usual paperwork. Consequently, I have yet to encounter anyone requesting to see my charges.
Recently, however, I’ve found myself at the center of a vicious rumor propagated by a trustee on my floor. This rumor falsely claims I am a sex offender who neglected to report an address change, adding that my supposed victim is my 11-year-old daughter.
Section 1.2: The Impact of Rumors
The emotional toll of such a cruel and inaccurate rumor is immense. It's troubling to think how easily misinformation can escalate into potential violence. To counteract this, I'm in the process of obtaining my official records to clarify my situation to my peers, who seem to have nothing better to do than create drama out of boredom.
Demeter has shared screenshots from the state’s website that outline my true charges, which ideally should suffice. Nevertheless, I’m adamant about quelling this rumor before it spirals further out of control. Once I receive my records, I plan to display them in the day room, allowing the trustee to view them at his convenience.
Chapter 2: The Irony of Incarceration
Ironically, the trustee spreading these rumors may be projecting his own history onto me. He has previously been in trouble for failing to register an address change and is on the sex offender registry due to past offenses involving a child. Currently, his legal issues revolve around identity theft.
What's particularly absurd is that this trustee will soon be transferred to another facility, leaving behind a trail of chaos for entertainment. In a setting where we all reside in individual cells, why should he concern himself with the reasons behind anyone else's incarceration?
Ultimately, the drama surrounding someone's charges should be irrelevant unless it directly impacts you. The act of gossiping and instigating conflict for amusement is not only petty but also dangerous.
Damian's birthday is April 13th. I'd love to gather well-wishes, send him books, or even put time on the phone. Anyone interested in contributing messages or photos of their pets (which always cheer him up) can email me at [email protected]. I aim to compile a collection of supportive messages to send him throughout the week.
For those wishing to support him financially, there are various ways to do so (links below), or you can send Amazon gift cards directly to my email for book purchases. Thank you!
Damian Delune is currently incarcerated, and his wife, Demeter, manages his communications. He lacks access to the internet or computers within the facility. If you wish to help maintain his connections with loved ones, consider supporting him through the provided links. With over 3,000 followers, even a small number subscribing to Medium using his link could significantly aid his efforts. Consider renewing your subscription next month through his link—it doesn't cost you any extra and will provide him with a small commission.