To the editor:

With the recent release of the upcoming documentary, “The Addict’s Wake,” covering Brown County and its experiences with substance use, it is important to question how those involved are truly supporting those with substance use disorders.

The Brown County jail still hosts many individuals experiencing substance use disorders. Their access to treatment and rehabilitative resources is limited. While COVID-19 has led to changes for many, including the jail, the issue may be deeper. Families have limited access to their loved ones. Incarcerated mothers and fathers have little to no access to their growing children. They are not able to play the active role in their lives because they cannot contact them. The cost of a 20-minute phone call is nearly $5 and this adds up.

In the recent trailers for the documentary, Sheriff Southerland is quoted as saying, “They are normal people; they are real people,” but the response of the jail does not align with this. Individuals are being limited on the days and time they can access treatment with their providers. They are not being allowed to see their families, which is a large driving force for individuals in the recovery community.

Something needs to change because what is happening now is not serving to best benefit individuals incarcerated in relation to their substance use disorder.

Kelly Moore, Bloomington

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