A while later my son becomes excited at seeing a large grasshopper on the window screen. He jumps up to get a closer look but only takes one step when the guard yells with venom in her voice, “I told you once already to stay in your seat and not get up, or I will end your visit, and you won’t be able to see your mom anymore!” He falls back in his chair, lays his head on the table and cries. I am furious. Who does she think she is? She can’t speak to my child that way. I begin to console and calm my son. I tell my mother that the guard is not allowed to speak to him that way. I am an inmate and belong to the State of Texas for the next five years, he doesn’t. He is an innocent little seven-year-old boy, who has now been traumatized by this guard during the only visit he’s had with his mom.
This incident happened to me on July 7. I’m still hurt, angry, and humiliated because I wasn’t able to protect my child from the hate within these walls. It is understandable if a guard speaks to an inmate in such a manner, but not an innocent child.
When I asked if he wanted to return again to visit me, he hung his head and said no. This incident will remain in his tiny memory every time he thinks of our visit. It’s hard enough being incarcerated and having to deal with abuse by prison guards. On top of that we have to deal with them abusing our families when they visit us. It’s no wonder over half the prison population never receives a visit during their incarceration.
Even though this situation is currently being investigated, I doubt if the prison officials take this as seriously as I do. In the end it’s still only an inmate’s word against the word of an officer.
If you’d like to write concerning this incident feel free. Write to Kimberly Burke #938449, 1401 State School Rd., Gatesville, TX, 76599.
By Kimberly Burke
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