Building/Fire Codes Used to Shut Down Overcrowded Prisons

Attack Your Enemy Where They Have No Defenses

I am writing to provide you a resource, for fighting mass incarceration. The International Fire Code and Building Code applies to prisons/jails, and we must use it to force fire and building officials to honor it, by putting them in the public spotlight if they do not apply the codes equally.

In December 2022, I used the codes to shutdown buildings 3 and 4 at Sussex 2 State Prison. But now I am being ignored as I try to file more complaints on other prisons. So I need others to join this fight.

Overcrowded Prisons Violate Fire/Building Codes

Reduce the prison/jail populations by half, by using these c Codes.

Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code and Uniform Statewide Building Code. Forms for filing complaints are online at: courts.state.va.us/form dc 390 and form dc 380

You can call/fax violations en masse to local/state officials where prisons/jails are located and go public/post online when they ignore them.

Criminal Charges

Violation of the fire code is a misdemeanor, VA Code Title 27-94 to 100. 3 misdemeanors are a felony. Criminal complaints are online at: courts.state.va,us/form dc 311

The accused is:

The Director, Chadwick S. Dotson, and they are criminally liable for they manage/operate these buildings.

NOW the 5 main codes all prisons/jails violate are, they do not have:

1. PERMITS for occupants over 49 in each pod/dorm
2. PERMANENT max load occupant signs in each pod/dorm
3. PERMITS to install top bunks/extra interior fences
4. ADEQUATE plumbing, ventilation and lighting for increased occupancy, and
5. NO POTABLE WATER in the standpipe systems

See:

• IFC 1001.3 Permits required for occupants over 49
• IFC 1004.9 Max load occupant signs must be posted for occupants over 49
• NFPA 25 Potable water required for standpipe systems
• NFPA 75 Increase in occupants require increase in in plumbing, ventilation/electrical [lighting]
• IEBC 108.3 Permits required for alterations and installation of additional structures like top bunks/fences