Lockdown eased at Menard Correctional Center

SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois Department of Corrections officials have eased restrictions at the state's largest prison.

The 3,500 inmates at Menard Correctional Center near Chester had been confined to their cells since October 27 after two fights between inmates had to be broken up by guards firing warning shots. As a result, inmate visits were canceled and prisoners were served meals in their cells.

Corrections spokesman Derek Schnapp says there is limited inmate movement and visits are allowed again.

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union says the problems at Menard are related to Gov. Rod Blagojevich plans to close the maximum-security Pontiac Correctional Center.

Union officials say inmates being transferred to make room for the displaced Pontiac prisoners are creating unsafe working conditions because of overcrowding.