CARSON CITY -- A Nevada prison industries program that builds customized motorcycles will soon expand with its own clothing line as well.
The clothing line, to be called "Most Wanted," will be designed by Jan Rousseaux of Las Vegas and will be manufactured by inmates within the Nevada Department of Corrections at the Lovelock Correctional Center.
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The clothing is intended to complement the motorcycle program, called "Big House Choppers," which is run out of the Southern Desert Correctional Center, northwest of Las Vegas.
The new clothing line will be launched at the motorcycle event "Street Vibrations," which will be held in Reno in September.
The line will include biker designs for men and women. Denim tops for women will feature studs and chains with sizes up to 3XL. Retail prices will range from $35 to $45. The balance of the collection is contemporary knit T-shirts, tank tops, head wear and accessories. Designs will include inmate-inspired slogans and artwork.
Also to be introduced is the "Hard Timin" line of men's denim apparel manufactured and worn by inmates since 2003. Designs include denim jackets, jeans, shorts and shirts.
Howard Skolnik, deputy director of Prison Industries, said Rousseaux is no stranger to the motorcycle apparel industry.
"This business venture allows inmates to learn new trades, self-respect and responsibility," Skolnik said. "Profits from sales will be used in part to relieve taxpayers for prisoners' incarceration with a percentage going to victims' funds and restitution."
Rousseaux said she was impressed with the "skill, creativity and pride of the inmates."
"Expect to see some really fun slogans and artwork coming from these guys," she added.
Skolnik said the Big House Chopper program is working on its third, fourth and fifth bikes.
The first two built by the inmates have been finished and are being held by the prison industries program for likely future auction, he said.
"They are not standard models," he said. "They are highly customized."
The agency has been waiting to market the bikes, which are worth more than $40,000, until it is sure the inmates can keep up with anticipated demand, he said.
