Yeah that was pretty humorous. I can see they being concerned that the DM might start getting favors from his players though. Who doesn't try to make friendly with the DM so as to spare their beloved character from some horrendous end?

All the joking aside though, these are prisoners being talked about. They committed terrible crimes and gave up most of their rights when they decided to ignore the laws of society. I'm not sure I want my tax dollars used so they can sit around all day and play games while I'm working my butt off to make ends meet. It does sound nutty but prison isn't supposed to be a happy place to be.

Fortunately there are a lot of other games besides D&D they can play. Maybe they should ask WOTC for help?