Overview
- Legislative ombudsman Keith Barber confirmed longstanding ventilation and mold problems, saying employees have been involved in bringing drugs into the facility.
- Lawmakers called for independent inspections and audits, plus sworn testimony from MDOC Director Heidi Washington and Warden Jeremy Howard.
- Former employees LaResha Thornton and Andi Allen described retaliation, sexual harassment, ignored overdoses, and staff involvement in smuggling contraband.
- Rep. Laurie Pohutsky presented records including the case of Krystal Clark with reported mold in her ears and recounted Jennifer Jean Wallace’s November 2025 death after delayed or incorrect medical care.
- MDOC pledged cooperation and stressed its commitment to health, safety, and reducing contraband, as legislators questioned the department’s $2.2 billion budget and noted the governor’s office has not engaged publicly.