‘Love and Hip Hop’ star Yandy Smith got maced Sunday afternoon while protesting jail conditions.
The reality star was among the crowd protesting outside the Metropolitan Detention Center, a federal facility in Brooklyn, when the macing happened.
Due to an electrical fire, the Metropolitan Detention Center has been without heat and electricity since January 28th.
via Madame Noire:
During the protest, which was broadcasted live on her Instagram account, she would correspond with the inmates by telling them to bang on their windows as she asked questions. When she asked if they had not received their blankets, the banging was heard loud and clear. When she asked if the heat had not been cut on, they banged, which let us know they were still freezing.
Smith, who was visibly emotional, was outraged at reports from the New York City Mayor’s Officethat the inmates were sent blankets and hand-warmers while temperatures were below freezing. The inmates confirmed that they had not received anything. The MDC has been without heat and electricity for about a week, putting inmates are risk for serious health issues. The New York Times noted that inmates with sleep apnea cannot use their sleep machines because there is no electricity, putting them at risk for a stroke. Without electricity, the inmates can’t call their loved ones nor can they request refills for their medication. They also can’t use their toilets and there’s no hot water. Visiting hours have also been canceled. This jail houses over 1,600 men.
This matter hits close to home for Smith, whose husband Mendeecees Harris is currently incarcerated on drug related charges. Smith was also hurt during the protest according to a video that was posted by her close friend.
It’s unclear what prompted the guards to pepper spray — but they did — and Yandy got hit.
