California Governor Gavin Newsom has condemned a report claiming his state’s “digital equity” program enabled death row inmates to watch pornography and groom children.
The report, which cited accounts from prisoners and others, alleged that the restrictions on tablets provided under Newsom’s initiative were easily circumvented for illicit purposes. Newsom’s office described the report’s sources as including convicted murderers and an individual who does not reside in California.
In a statement released Wednesday, Newsom’s office declared the claims “flat-out FALSE,” noting that a MAGA nonprofit provided zero evidence for its assertions. The statement emphasized that prison tablets do not provide open internet access and that all communications are monitored, recorded, searchable, and investigated.
Newsom’s office further noted that these devices are used for education, rehabilitation, family communication, and reentry support — measures proven to reduce crime — which were omitted by those making the report.
