The Utah State Correctional Facility, facing challenges like scabies outbreaks, mosquito infestations, drug smuggling, and violent incidents, could potentially become the permanent residence for Tyler Robinson, accused of the murder of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Robinson, aged 22, was apprehended following the fatal shooting of Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem. He is charged with aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury. Governor Spencer Cox has indicated that the prosecution will pursue the death penalty, raising the possibility of Robinson facing execution in the facility’s death chamber.
Despite its initial promises of modern amenities and improved healthcare upon its inauguration in 2022, the $1 billion facility has gained notoriety for its issues with diseases, pests, drugs, and general disorder. An incident earlier this year saw 140 inmates receiving treatment for scabies after an elderly inmate tested positive, leading to extensive testing, disinfection procedures, and sterilization of bedding and clothing.
Situated in a wetland area, the facility has been plagued by mosquito breeding grounds, necessitating a $300,000 allocation for pest control to address infestations affecting both inmates and staff. Measures were taken to distribute repellents, although access was restricted in higher-security units. Assistant Deputy Executive Director Spencer Turley acknowledged the seriousness of the mosquito concerns and affirmed ongoing efforts to mitigate them.
The prison has also grappled with drug smuggling incidents, with several visitors arrested within a short timeframe for attempting to smuggle substances into the facility. One woman notably breached security by cutting a hole in a plexiglass barrier to pass strips of Suboxone, an opioid addiction treatment drug, to an inmate using her car key.
Security breaches have been a recurring issue, highlighted by the assault of three correctional officers in January 2023, prompting the implementation of new cameras and safety protocols. However, by February, the facility acknowledged a significant shortfall in staffing, operating with less than half of the required 135 officers. This shortage led to the closure of three housing units, necessitating the deployment of guards from other prisons to fill the gaps.
Should Robinson be found guilty, the prison, commonly referred to as the “Hellhole Jail,” is where he is expected to spend the remainder of his life. Currently under special observation at the facility to assess any potential risks, the 22-year-old is awaiting his initial court appearance scheduled for Tuesday.
