Two Homicides During Conjugal Visits at California Prison Prompt Calls for Reform

Anthony Curry has been charged with murdering his wife, Tania Thomas, while investigations continue into the death of Stephanie Dowells, both strangled during unsupervised visits at Mule Creek State Prison.

Anthony Curry, serving a life sentence for attempted murder, has been charged with the July 2024 killing of his wife, Tania Thomas, during a conjugal visit at Mule Creek State Prison.
Stephanie Dowells was strangled to death by her husband, David Brinson, during a similar visit in November 2024; charges are still pending in her case as investigations continue.
The families of both victims are demanding stricter oversight and changes to prison policies, specifically regarding unsupervised visits for violent offenders.
Current California prison policies allow family visits for inmates who meet strict criteria, excluding only death row inmates and sex offenders, raising questions about the adequacy of these rules.
The incidents have intensified scrutiny of Mule Creek State Prison and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, with calls for accountability and systemic reform.