Alcatraz's Last Inmate Reflects on Trump's Vision to Reopen the Infamous Prison

Charlie Hopkins, one of the last surviving inmates of Alcatraz, recounts his solitary time in the notorious prison and reacts skeptically to Trump's plan to reinstate it for modern use, emphasizing the impracticality of such a move.

Charlie Hopkins, renowned as potentially the last surviving inmate of Alcatraz, recently shared his thoughts about life in the infamous prison and his skepticism concerning former President Trump's proposal to reopen it. At 93, the Florida resident reminisced about his 1955 incarceration there, highlighting the "deathly quiet" of the isolated island, famously known for hosting notorious criminals like Al Capone and the "Birdman of Alcatraz," Robert Stroud.

Sentenced to 17 years for robbery and kidnapping, Hopkins remembers Alcatraz as a barren place with limited distractions—no radio or plentiful books to occupy his time. He recounted nightly sounds, such as the whistle of passing ships, inviting deep feelings of loneliness. During his three years at the prison, a significant portion of his time was spent working to clean its floors, while at the same time, he found himself involved in an escape plan that ultimately failed, resulting in a stint in solitary confinement.

While Alcatraz has transitioned from a prison to a museum, attracting millions of visitors annually, Trump's recent statements about wanting to resurrect it as a federal prison for "ruthless" offenders have stirred significant discussion. Experts deem the proposal implausible due to the extensive costs needed to refurbish the dilapidated facility. Likewise, Hopkins voiced doubts, recalling issues with the plumbing system that would require modern solutions.

Reflecting on his life, Hopkins, who was released in 1963 after being transferred to another facility, underscored the notion that Trump's declaration may be more rhetoric than genuine intention. Now resigned to his past and living a quieter life, he has authored a memoir detailing his experiences, providing insights into the struggles he faced during his turbulent years in prison.