A Justice Department report released Thursday revealed systemic sexual abuse and harassment of women inmates at two California state prisons. The Department of Justice found that prison officials were aware of and often ignored the rampant misconduct, which included sexual assault, rape, and exploitative sexual contact between staff and inmates. The report detailed how the state failed to adequately investigate or address these allegations, creating a climate of impunity for abusive guards.

According to the DOJ's Civil Rights Division, these failures violated the constitutional rights of incarcerated women. The report highlighted specific instances of abuse and the lack of disciplinary action against perpetrators. The findings paint a grim picture of conditions within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's facilities for women.

In response, state officials stated that they have already implemented reforms aimed at preventing such abuse and ensuring accountability. They assert that Governor Gavin Newsom's administration has taken steps to address the issues raised by the Justice Department. However, the report underscores a history of neglect and a significant failure to protect a vulnerable population.