PHOENIX — A disturbing wave of violence has erupted within Arizona’s prison system, resulting in four inmate deaths within just eight days. This crisis has prompted state officials to take action.

Republican Senator Kevin Payne, chair of the Senate Public Safety Committee, announced an investigation into the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation, and Reentry (ADCRR) in light of these alarming incidents. He described the situation as “inexcusable and incredibly troubling.”

The inquiry follows the murder of Daniel Montoya at Lewis Prison on April 12, and the chilling killings orchestrated by inmate Ricky Wassenaar at the state prison in Tucson on April 4, who allegedly took the lives of three other inmates, including his cellmate. Wassenaar is known for a violent history, having previously held correctional officers hostage during riots in 2004.

Senator Payne’s concerns extend beyond the immediate incidents. In a letter addressed to DOC Director Ryan Thornell, he questioned the efficacy of safety and security protocols currently in place. Payne’s frustration is compounded by the DOC’s prior assertions denying staffing issues at the Tucson facility, which he dismisses as insufficient. He has formally requested access to documents relating to staffing levels, policies, and any changes initiated in response to recent events.

“Director Thornell has some explaining to do,” Payne stated, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability. The senator expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, acknowledging a systemic failure that contributed to their tragic outcomes.

During a press conference held with Governor Katie Hobbs, Thornell addressed the ongoing violence, asserting his commitment to cooperating with the investigation. However, he expressed skepticism over claims of a significant rise in violent incidents within the state prison system.

In response to the violence, the DOC has implemented much stricter measures across five state prison units, including halting all visitations until further notice. The affected units include those at ASPC-Eyman, ASPC-Lewis, ASPC-Tucson, ASPC-Winslow, and ASPC-Yuma.

Carlos Garcia, executive director of the Arizona Correctional Peace Officers Association, criticized the situation, noting long-standing staffing shortages at state prisons. Although he supports the recent lockdowns for safety reasons, Garcia warned that these measures could lead to increased volatility among inmates and staff.

“This is putting a lot of stress and danger on the staff and the inmate population,” he remarked, emphasizing the urgent need for improved conditions in the correctional system.