Black Prisoners Enslave White (Press, 4 December 1969)

A troubling report has emerged regarding conditions at Camp Pendleton, California, the sole Marine Corps prison on the West Coast. L. Mendel Rivers, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, released findings from investigators sent to assess allegations of brutality within the facility. This action followed articles from national magazines that raised concerns about the treatment of inmates. The investigation revealed that a group of black prisoners has allegedly taken control over their white counterparts, creating a system described as "black supremacy." According to the report cited in the Charleston "News and Courier," the prison currently holds 769 inmates, out of which 119 are black. This minority has reportedly organised itself under leadership comparable to that of the Black Panthers, leading to a dominance that has baffled guards and prompted fear among white inmates. The report detailed severe punishment methods employed in the form of 'kangaroo courts', where white prisoners who resist are often subjected to brutal beatings. Instances of violence have been so extreme that some white inmates have been harmed to the point of death. The situation has driven many to despair, with 25 reported suicide attempts since January 1969. While some attempts involved superficial injuries that appeared to be cries for help regarding the conditions, the overall environment has been described as dire. Additionally, these white inmates, under the threat of violence, have been forced into performing menial labour and have been subjected to sexual assaults. Rivers indicated that the findings of this preliminary report would be expanded upon by a special sub-committee focused on investigating disruptions at military installations. In parallel, the Marine Corps is conducting its investigation into the prison's operations, which has involved placing Major Wilson A. Voight — the officer in charge during the reported brutalities — under legal representation as part of the inquiry. This probe was temporarily halted to allow Voight and his lawyer to review testimonies from the first 100 inmates interviewed. Mr Rivers expressed determination to rectify the situation, stating that if the Marines cannot restore order, external authorities will be brought in to ensure proper management of the prison. The situation calls for urgent attention to ensure the safety and rights of all prisoners within the facility.

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