71 DAYS IN THE HOLE.... THIS TIME

I never imagined the fight to protect my husband Joseph would involve battling against something as cruel as prolonged solitary confinement — yet that’s exactly what happened. Joseph was held in solitary at Anamosa State Penitentiary for 71 days, more than twice the maximum 30 days allowed by an Iowa Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) order.

This wasn’t just a bureaucratic oversight. It was a deliberate denial of his rights and a form of punishment that left him isolated, suffering, and unheard.

The Law Is Clear: Limits on Solitary Confinement

Iowa Administrative Code § 201—44.20(3) states disciplinary segregation time should be limited to no more than 30 days without proper reauthorization or review. This rule exists because extended isolation can cause lasting mental and physical harm — effects recognized by courts across the country.

Federal courts, including the Eighth Circuit, have ruled that prolonged solitary confinement may violate the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment when imposed arbitrarily or without due process (see Wilkinson v. Austin, 545 U.S. 209 (2005)).

What Joseph Went Through

Joseph’s solitary confinement was extended to 71 days—more than double the legal maximum. The prison ignored the ALJ’s order and kept him locked away with almost no human contact, no meaningful activities, and minimal access to fresh air or medical care.

The isolation crushed his spirit. It made his asthma worse, increased his anxiety, and left him feeling completely powerless. As his wife, watching this happen and feeling helpless broke my heart.

Why This Matters: Constitutional and Human Rights

This is not just about Joseph. The Fourteenth Amendment guarantees due process before depriving anyone of liberty, which includes protection against excessive punishment. When prisons violate these protections, they not only break the law — they destroy lives.

Our Injunction Demands Justice

In our injunction, we are demanding that Anamosa:

• Immediately comply with ALJ orders and Iowa Code regarding solitary confinement limits.

• Cease the unlawful extension of disciplinary segregation.

• Implement safeguards and accountability to prevent this from happening again.

The Prison’s Denial

Anamosa’s attorneys argue that their policies justify Joseph’s confinement. But policies cannot override court orders or constitutional protections. Ignoring the ALJ’s 30-day limit is a blatant violation of the law.

Final Thoughts

No one should have to endure what Joseph did. Prolonged solitary confinement is a form of punishment that breaks people — mentally and physically. It’s time to bring this reality into the light and demand change.

I share Joseph’s story not just to fight for him but to stand up for every person trapped behind these walls without a voice.

If you want to support this fight or learn more, please contact me at kilmerizzy@gmail.com.