Corrections officer: Killer job

last updated: May 07, 2008 02:40:06 AM

Over the past few months much has been said regarding the officers and supervisors of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitations. Most comments are that they are overpaid and underworked; one judge even said that assault is part of the job. As a correctional sergeant for 22 years, I can say it's not an easy profession and not for everybody.

Over the last month we have seen: Officers and medical staff being gassed (water, urine, feces thrown on them); officers assaulted while transporting inmates; staff spat on; housing unit officers assaulted; inmates assaulting staff during meals; inmates instructing other inmates on how to assault staff; weapons found in cells; weapons found after fights.

How would you like to work in a place where the people you supervise are trying to assault or kill you? Californians want criminals locked up, but they don't want to support those who do the job.

As for overtime, all officer and most sergeant and lieutenant positions must be filled due to safety concerns. Staff must be present to run the housing units and supervise kitchens, recreational yards, education, vocational training, medical areas, etc. Without proper staffing, more assaults and attacks would occur.

D.D. KINCHELOE

Modesto

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