It was "game on" Saturday night for the general population at the Bristol County House of Correction in North Dartmouth -- but it was quiet time for segregated detainee Aaron Hernandez, whose stellar six pass receptions for 85 yards helped propel the Patriots into the AFC Championship one year ago today.
If you found yourself wondering Saturday if the tight-end-turned-accused-killer was cheering his scene-stealing successor LeGarrette Blount across the goal line, the answer is "No," Bristol Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson told the Herald yesterday. "He's not allowed to watch any TV."
Hodgson said prisoners spread over two tiers in general population were permitted to watch one hour of the AFC Divisional Round match that ended with the Pats kicking the Indianapolis Colts to the curb, 43-22. But Hernandez, for security reasons, is housed in a special-management unit, where he's confined to his cell 21 hours a day. And per Hodgson's order, no cell comes equipped with its own flat screen.
"It's jail," he said. "It's all about standards and sending a message."
"We only allow two hours a day of entertainment television," Hodgson said about his no-nonsense tube policy. "The rest of it has to be self-help tapes, self-help documentaries."
He said Hernandez, 24, previously has inquired if he might grab some time in front of the tube.
"That, of course, is no," Hodgson said, noting he is not allowed to mingle with other inmates due to his high-profile status.
Hernandez had a $40 million contract with the Patriots when he was charged with the June 17 shooting murder of semi-pro football pal Odin L. Lloyd in North Attleboro. He has pleaded not guilty.
Three times a day, for an hour, Hernandez is placed in an outdoor 12-foot by 8-foot enclosure with nothing but his own company. "There's no equipment. It's basically just a pen. He can do pushups, situps," said Hodgson, confirming Hernandez is staying in shape.
"He's fine. For the most part, he's cooperative."
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