Denied Visitation: How Anamosa’s Broken System Punishes Families and Why I Had to Fight Back

Visiting Joseph isn’t just a routine—it’s a vital connection we both rely on. When Anamosa State Penitentiary took away my visitation rights without clear explanation or timeline, it felt like a personal punishment inflicted on both of us. Despite following every procedure and filing grievances, the prison’s internal system failed me completely. That’s why I had no choice but to file an injunction.

The Visitation Ban: Personal Punishment, Not Due Process

On March 8, 2025, Joseph was placed on lockdown, and I was left completely in the dark—no explanations, no updates, no returned phone calls. I didn’t hear from him or anyone at Anamosa until April 18, 2025, when Joseph finally managed to call me. Imagine almost six weeks without any contact or information. That’s not just unfair; it’s inhumane.

Denied Critical Communication

During this time, I tried desperately to reach Joseph about a serious injury concerning our son. Yet, I was outright denied the chance to speak with him. Even worse, when I requested emergency communication as required under Iowa law, the prison refused to implement any emergency calling system or process.

Repeated calls to the Deputy Warden and Warden went unanswered. This blatant disregard for family communication is unacceptable and violates basic rights.

The Broken Grievance Process

I submitted formal grievances and appeals, including one filed on April 8, 2025, but have received no response within the 45-day timeframe required by prison policy. Instead, the grievance process circulates back to the very same staff who originally revoked my visitation, providing no impartial review or oversight.

This means:

• No transparency

• No accountability

• No meaningful way to resolve the issue

Why the Internal System Fails Families

Prisons often control grievance procedures internally, but when the staff responsible for punishment also handle appeals, fairness is impossible. This denies families basic due process and the fundamental right to maintain contact with loved ones.

Why I Filed an Injunction

Because the prison’s grievance system repeatedly failed me and Joseph’s rights were being violated, I had to seek relief through the courts. The injunction demands:

• Immediate reinstatement of my visitation rights unless there is clear, documented cause.

• A transparent and impartial grievance process with external oversight.

• Protections against retaliatory punishments targeting inmates and their families.

• Implementation of an emergency communication system as required by Iowa law.

What This Means for Families Like Ours

Unjust visitation revocation and ignored grievances tear families apart and exacerbate emotional suffering. No family should have to endure additional cruelty in an already difficult situation.

Closing

I share this story to shed light on the broken systems inside prison walls and the real impact on families. My fight for visitation rights is a fight for dignity, justice, and the vital human connection that sustains us.

THEY EVEN BLOCKED AN EMERGECY CALL DUE TO HIS SON'S INJURY AND NEVER TOLD HIM WHEN I ASKED THEM TO LET HIM KNOW ....