Senator Bolick, Representative Blackman Warn Prison Safety Reforms Come Too Late for Dozens of Inmates

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                   

Monday, August 25, 2025 

Senator Bolick, Representative Blackman Warn Prison Safety Reforms

Come Too Late for Dozens of Inmates

PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Arizona State Senator Shawnna Bolick and Representative Walt Blackman are responding to the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry (ADCRR)'s recent announcement outlining new safety measures within the state prison system. While the deployment of body cameras and creation of a Violence Reduction Workgroup are steps in the right direction, both legislators stress the changes are overdue and fall short of what the crisis demands.

"This year alone, Arizona prisons have seen 57 deaths, including at least 11 reported homicides, highlighting a crisis that demands immediate and sustained action," said Senator Bolick, Chair for the Senate Committee on Regulatory Affairs & Government Efficiency. "The ADCRR's Sunday statement, seemingly prompted by the threat of federal oversight, comes too late for many. We welcome initiatives like body cameras, which have shown promising preliminary results, but these should have been prioritized long before legislative scrutiny forced the issue."

"The lack of funding for the Independent Correctional Oversight Office, established under SB 1507 which I supported, undermines any claim of meaningful reform," said Representative Blackman, Chair for the House Committee on Government. "A press release is not a substitute for the resources and accountability this office needs to function. Governor Hobbs must allocate funding to ensure this watchdog can operate, as transparency and oversight are critical to preventing violent incidents like the recent inmate murders in Tucson."

Both legislators note that while ADCRR Director Ryan Thornell's stated commitment to reducing violence and supporting correctional staff is appreciated, the department's approach has been reactive rather than proactive.

"The expansion of training programs and workforce development is commendable, but it should not have taken repeated calls for action and high-profile incidents to spur these changes," said Senator Bolick. "Director Thornell must demonstrate that safety within prison walls is a priority from day one, not a response to external pressure."

"Announcements alone won't keep staff or inmates safe. Promises must be backed by proof—measurable results showing reduced violence, safer reentry, and a lasting change in culture within our prisons," said Representative Blackman. "Arizonans deserve safer prisons and safer communities. Until accountability and transparency are in place, the cycle of failure and danger will continue."

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For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus

kquintero@azleg.gov

Andrew Wilder

Director of Communications | Arizona House of Representatives Republican Caucus

awilder@azleg.gov