Cardi B Speaks Out on Hazelton Abuse, Echoing BBG’s Investigative Spotlight

Hazelton Facility Under Scrutiny for Alleged Inhumane Conditions

Grammy-winning rapper and global superstar Cardi B recently used her platform to spotlight allegations of abuse and neglect at West Virginian’s Hazelton’s Secure Female Facility (SFF Hazelton). Known for her unfiltered personality and advocacy for social justice, Cardi B shared the story of her friend, Yonette Respass, also known as “Star” who reportedly faces retaliation from staff due to her connection to the artist.

This public outcry underscores the ongoing issues at Hazelton, which BBG previously covered through the story of Cynthia Young, written by Caitlin Leggett: We Still Matter: Woman Jailed in Hazelton Report Abuse, Unsafe Living Conditions, November 21, 2023

Young and eight other women incarcerated at Hazelton penned a detailed seven-page letter describing horrific conditions, including racial abuse, denial of medical care, and physical mistreatment. Their plea for help calls attention to violations of their Eighth Amendment right against “cruel and unusual punishment” and their 14th Amendment right to equal treatment.

Senator Shelley Moore Capito has formally requested an investigation by the Department of Justice, seeking accountability and transparency regarding systemic abuse, falsification of records, and staff misconduct at the facility.

Read more about Cynthia Young’s fight for justice and the investigation into Hazelton’s troubling practices here.