Cell Yourself

“Dynamo inmates have keys to their housing unit and yard, which they can access at any hour and are responsible for cutting the grass. They have open movement to food service, jobs, library, recreation and canteen. They have access to a day room with a soft sofa, large television, washer and dryer, refrigerator, ice machine, plants and an aquarium to help alleviate stress. Most unusual of all, inmates have their own cells, which they can paint the color of their choosing — and are expected to clean.” What happened when a group of prison longtimers were given a little more freedom and control over their lives? “Zero fights and no drugs, overdoses or violations.” These Missouri inmates run their own corner of the prison. The warden is OK with that.