Congressman Shri Thanedar Demands Resignation of Michigan Department of Corrections Director Heidi Washington

Congressman Shri Thanedar Demands Resignation of Michigan Department of Corrections Director Heidi Washington

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Shri Thanedar released the following statement on Michigan Department of Corrections Director Heidi Washington, calling on her to resign following concerns over prison conditions under her watch.

"In the last month alone, there have been four deaths in Michigan Department of Corrections facilities that we know of. This is not the first time serious issues in MDOC facilities have occurred, as numerous unions first called on Director Washington to resign in 2020 due to her mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, there has been a chronic staffing shortage of corrections officers, and issues about prison conditions have consistently plagued MDOC. When the families of inmates, state legislators, and other community stakeholders have attempted to address these concerns, they have been dismissed by the department every time. In the richest country in the world, everyone deserves to be treated with dignity. MDOC, under Director Washington's leadership, is failing this fundamental goal. The evidence is clear: Director Washington must resign immediately before more harm is done."

Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.

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