Prisons were initially established to hold individuals who were either awaiting trial or awaiting punishment. Over time, however, prisons have evolved to serve multiple purposes, including punishment, ensuring public safety, and facilitating rehabilitation.
These locations are where the truly notorious individuals, both male and female, tend to congregate.
What is a Supermax prison?
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Supermax prisons are characterized by their long-term confinement for inmates, stringent security measures, and limited access to recreational activities, educational opportunities, and substance abuse programs. These facilities prioritize maximum security and often employ solitary confinement as a means of control and isolation.
Supermax prison is specifically designed to house the most violent and disruptive inmates.
Supermax prisons in Texas
W. J. “Jim” Estelle Unit
The Estelle Unit, located in Huntsville, Texas, has been in operation since June 1984. With a capacity to accommodate nearly 3,200 inmates, it serves as one of the seven prisons in the area. It’s worth noting that while the Estelle Unit houses various prisoners, its high-security supermax facility is distinct from the main prison.
The Allan B. Polunsky Unit
The Polunsky Unit, situated in Livingston, Texas, commenced operations in 1993, serving as one of the deadliest correctional facilities in the state. With a capacity to accommodate 2,900 inmates, it exclusively serves as the death row prison for male convicts in Texas. Within its confines, individuals who have received death sentences await their ultimate fate. The notorious reputation of the Polunsky Unit precedes it, solidifying its standing as one of the most notorious prisons in the entire nation.