As an alternative to mass killings or locking up inmates and literally throwing away the key, I can imagine a few instances where prison populations are reduced to the worst of the worst (violent criminals, serial recidivists), freeing up a lot of prison space and reducing the number of guards needed to keep them contained. Within the prison walls, the inmates have free reign. The inmates can move freely among the cell blocks, and can use the "yard" to grow food, raise livestock. Local family and friends can supplement this prison-grown food supply if willing and able. If the inmates kill each others, so be it. As long as they don't try to escape, they can do what they please.
Guards maintain a fortified perimeter and are authorized to shoot on sight if prisoners attempt to escape.
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