Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:30am on 11 Jan 2025,Saturday International
Nearly 1,000 incarcerated individuals are battling massive wildfires in California, part of a programme run by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The fires have destroyed 10,000 structures, burned 37,000 acres, and killed 11 people. Inmates, earning $5.80-$10.24 daily, cut fire lines and clear fuel to slow the spread. Critics call the programme exploitative due to low wages and lack of recognition, while supporters argue it provides training, time credits, and better living conditions. Many inmates face stigma after release, struggling to become professional firefighters despite California's firefighter shortage.
