Corrections_Today_Fall_2024_Vol.86_No.3

Corrections Fall 2024 | Vol. 86, No. 3 THE AMERICAN CORRECTIONAL ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE Advance. Connect. Achieve. Correctional AI | Drones | Suicide Prevention | NCOEW 2024 | Incoming Publication Safety | RSAT Program Today

Technology in Corrections pgs. 24–44

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THIS IS YOUR MAGAZINE ... and we want YOU to be a part of future issues! Let’s make a splash! Discover the many opportunities to contibute to Corrections Today — the flagship magazine of the American Correctional Association — dedicated to Corrections Professionals worldwide. We look forward to your valuable contributions! Corrections Professionals

• Share your National Correctional Officer and Employee Week celebrations. • Contribute a compelling feature article. • Provide insightful critiques for our Bookshelf section. • Express your perspectives and experiences in “View from the Line.” • “Speak Out” on matters close to your heart. • Extend an update on your ACA Committee. • Seek guidance from Dr. Dean Aufderheide by posing a Behavioral Health inquiry. • Promote your upcoming events through the Corrections Calendar. • Engage in our social media platforms.

Questions? Contact Kirk Raymond by calling 703-224-0193 or by email at submissions@aca.org

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Corrections Today Fall 2024 | Vol. 86, No. 3 THE AMERICAN CORRECTIONAL ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Features

SPECIAL TECHNOLOGY SECTION

18 32 nd Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony & Honor Guard Competition By Kirk Raymond 46 Peer-assisted suicide prevention programs in prisons By Christine Tartaro, Ph.D. and Scott Klenk, MA 52 Safety within the correctional community With regards to incoming publications By Darren Herrington 62 Breaking the cycle RSAT Program improving reentry in Arizona By Sara Ratner, JD and Zach Zobel

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Correctional AI Promise, risks and the way forward By Robert Cameron, Ph.D. Drones Both an emerging threat and asset for correctional facilities By Joel Anderson and David Lewin Leading the way: Technology driven case management and assessment A case study with Pennsylvania DOC, leading the nation in advanced correctional care By Michelle Darling and Jason Stauffer Addressing drone-delivered contraband in U.S. prisons By Grant Jordan

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2024 National

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Correctional Officers and Employees Week p. 14

On the Cover: Rapidly evolving technology presents massive challenges for the correctional professional. Learning the latest threats and opportunities is vital. Share your unique experiences and insights on technology or any other important topic! Cover illustration: Background: Adobe Stock/MiaStendal; Machine Learning: Adobe Stock/Murrstock; Drone: Adobe Stock/ Naypong Studio

Corrections Fall 2024 | Vol. 86, No. 3 THE AMERICAN CORRECTIONAL ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE Advance. Connect. Achieve. Correctional AI | Drones | Suicide Prevention | NCOEW 2024 | Incoming Publication Safety | RSAT Program Today

Technology in Corrections pgs. 24–44

Fall 2024 | Corrections Today

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FEBRUARY IS #BLACKHISTORYMONTH Call for article and photo submissions for the Winter issue of Corrections Today!

A s we approach Black History Month, the field of corrections. We invite you to contribute photos and articles that highlight the experiences, challenges and achievements within this vital sector, as well as success stories of initiatives and individuals aimed at improving diversity, equity and inclusion within correctional institutions. Corrections Today is proud to honor the rich history, significant contributions and impactful stories of African Americans in Submission Guidelines: – ARTICLES: Should be between 800-2,000 words. Please include a brief bio and a photo of the author(s) and any relevant affiliations. – PHOTOS: Submit high-resolution images (300 dpi or higher) with appropriate captions and credits. Include a brief description of the photo’s context and significance. – FORMAT: All submissions should be in MSWord format for articles, and JPEG format for photos (as individual attachments, not pasted into MSWord). – DEADLINE: Please submit your articles and photos by Sept. 15, 2024. – HOW TO SUBMIT: Email your submissions to submissions@aca.org with the subject line “Black History Month”.

Your stories, insights and visuals are crucial in high lighting the significant impact of African Americans in corrections. Whether it’s a compelling article, a power ful photograph or a personal story, your submissions will help us create a meaningful tribute that honors the past, recognizes the present and envisions a more inclu sive future for corrections. For any questions or further information, please contact Kirk Raymond, Director of Communications and Publications, at (703) 224-0193.

Submit your #BlackHistoryMonth articles and photos by Sept. 15, 2024 to submissions@aca.org

Photo courtesy Florida Department of Corrections

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

News&Views

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From Rob’s Desk

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In Memoriam

EDITORIAL STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Robert L. Green, robg@aca.org MANAGING EDITOR Kirk Raymond, kraymond@aca.org GRAPHICS AND PRODUCTION STAFF GRAPHIC DESIGNER Carla DeCarlo, carlad@aca.org ADVERTISING AND MARKETING STAFF DIRECTOR, CONVENTIONS, ADVERTISING AND CORPORATE RELATIONS Kelli McAfee, kellim@aca.org DIRECTOR, SALES & MARKETING Da’Shawn Burnette, dashawnb@aca.org

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Correctional Chaplain Perspectives

ACA Departments

68 74 76

ACA Benchmarks/New Members

Committees

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Mary Misisco, marym@aca.org COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST Sarah Castillo, sarahc@aca.org MULTIMEDIA DESIGNER Kierra Khan, kierrak@aca.org

Communications & Publications Bookshelf . ............................... 77 In the Field .............................. 82

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Conventions, Advertising & Corportate Relations

ACA EXECUTIVE OFFICE AND DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Robert L. Green, robg@aca.org James A. Gondles Jr., CAE, Executive Director Emeritus

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Executive Office E.R. Cass Award .................... 86

DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jeffrey Washington, jeffw@aca.org CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

88 90 92

Standards & Accreditation

Ben Nalette, CPA, benn@aca.org SENIOR EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT India Vargas, indiav@aca.org COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR Kirk Raymond, kraymond@aca.org CONVENTIONS, ADVERTISING AND CORPORATE RELATIONS DIRECTOR Kelli McAfee, kellim@aca.org INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ACTING DIRECTOR Ben Nalette, CPA, benn@aca.org INTERNATIONAL INITIATIVES Jeffrey Washington, jeffw@aca.org OFFICE OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH DIRECTORS Terri L. Catlett — Director, terric@aca.org Dr. Dean Aufderheide — Director of Mental Health, daufderheide@aca.org PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, MEMBERSHIP AND ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR Dr. Valorie L. Sanders, LBBP, valories@aca.org SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR Da’Shawn Burnette, dashawnb@aca.org STANDARDS AND ACCREDITATION DIRECTOR David Haasenritter, davidh@aca.org Statements contained in Corrections Today are the personal views of the authors and do not constitute ACA policy unless so indicated. ACA does not assume responsibility for the content of Corrections Today as submitted by contributors, reserves the right to edit all articles and, if necessary, condense them. The publication of any advertisement by ACA is neither an endorsement of the advertiser nor of the products or services advertised. ACA is not responsible for any claims made in advertisements. Printed in U.S.A. by Goetz Printing, Springfield, VA Vol. 86, No. 3. Copyright 2024 by the American Correctional Association

Corrections Calendar

Advertiser/Product Index

Fall 2024 | Corrections Today

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INQUIRIES AND INFORMATION

ARTICLE AND PHOTO SUBMISSIONS: Managing Editor, 206 N. Washington St., Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314; email submissions@aca.org. Articles must be in Microsoft Word. Please include all contact information. Unless expressly requested in writing, all photos and artwork submitted become the property of ACA and may be used in future ACA publications. Articles and photos will not be returned unless expressly requested by author. ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Please direct all inquiries to DaShawn Burnette, Director of Sales & Marketing, at 703-224-0030 (Direct) or dashawnb@aca.org. MISSION STATEMENT: The American Correctional Association provides a professional organization for all individuals and groups, both public and private, that share a common goal of improving the justice system. Corrections Today (ISSN 0190-2563, USPS 019-640) is published four times a year in Summer (June/July/August), Fall (September/October/November), Winter (December/ January/February) and Spring (March/April/May) by the American Correctional Association, 206 N. Washington St., Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314; 703-224-0000. Vol. 86, No. 3. Copyright 2024 by the American Correctional Association POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Corrections Today , American Correctional Association, 206 N. Washington St., Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314. Periodicals rate postage is paid at Alexandria, VA 22314 and additional mailing offices. SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: Subscriptions are included in annual membership dues. Nonmember subscription rates are $25 per year. You can join ACA or renew your subscription online at www. aca.org. Changes to your contact information and address can be updated through the membership portal at www.aca.org, via email at memberships@aca.org or by calling the Member Support Center at 1-866-538-1929 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.– 5 p.m., EST).

AMERICAN CORRECTIONAL ASSOCIATION OFFICERS

PRESIDENT Denise M. Robinson Ohio IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Tony C. Parker Tennessee VICE PRESIDENT Tyrone Oliver Georgia PRESIDENT-ELECT Ricky D. Dixon Florida

TREASURER Harbans S. Deol, D.O., Ph.D. Nebraska BOARD OF GOVERNORS REPRESENTATIVES Burl Cain Mississippi Garry L. McFadden North Carolina SECRETARY Robert L. Green Maryland

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE

CHAPTERS AND AFFILIATES

Alston Wilkes Society—American Catholic Correctional Ministries—American Correctional Health Services Association—American Institute of Architects—American Jail Association—American Probation and Parole Association—Arizona Probation, Parole and Corrections Association— Association of Correctional Food Service Affiliates—Association of Paroling Authorities International—Association of State Correctional Administrators—Association of Programs for Female Offenders—Association of Women Executives in Corrections—Colorado Criminal Justice Association— Correctional Accreditation Managers Association— Correctional Association of Massachusetts— Correctional Education Association—Council of Juvenile Correctional Administrators—District of Columbia Criminal Justice Association—Florida Council on Crime and Delinquency—Historical Association for Corrections—Illinois Correctional Association—Indiana Criminal Justice Association— International Association for Correctional and Forensic Psychology—International Association of Correctional Training Personnel—International Correctional Arts Network—International Corrections and Prisons Association—Iowa Corrections Association—Jamaica Federation of Corrections— Juvenile Justice Trainers Association—Kansas Correctional Association—Louisiana Correctional

Association—Maryland Criminal Justice Association— Michigan Corrections Association—Middle Atlantic States Correctional Association—Missouri Corrections Association—National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice—National Association of Probation Executives—National Association of Adult and Juvenile State Corrections Mental Health Directors—National Correctional Industries Association Inc.—National Council on Crime and Delinquency—National Council of Juvenile Correctional Administrators— National Juvenile Detention Association—National Organization of Hispanics in Criminal Justice— Nebraska Correctional Association—New Jersey Chapter Association—New Mexico Criminal Justice Association—New York Corrections and Youth Services Association—North American Association of Wardens and Superintendents—North Carolina Correctional Association—Ohio Correctional and Court Services Association—Oklahoma Correctional Association— Parole and Probation Compact Administrators Association—Prison Fellowship—Salvation Army—South Carolina Correctional Association—Southern States Correctional Association—Texas Criminal Justice Association—Virginia Correctional Association— Volunteers of America Inc.—Washington Correctional Association—Wisconsin Correctional Association— Wyoming Correctional Association

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Corrections Today | Fall 2024

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News&Views

NEWS FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

From Rob’s Desk ACA: A new look!

W elcome to the second was overwhelmed by the positive response of the return of this amaz ing magazine. I want to thank you for the many notes, emails and testimo nials sent to us on the importance of the magazine to our field. I also want to thank our membership and the corrections community for their con tributions to the magazine through content submissions and the finan cial support of our sponsors. This second edition is dedicated to some of the incredible technolo gies impacting corrections. The integration of technology into every aspect of correctional operations has become increasingly prevalent with new products and services being introduced to our in dustry at a record pace. From early biometric identification systems, to in-facility communication platforms to drone detection, technology is revolutionizing the way correc tional systems operate, manage and provide services both inside and outside our facilities and in commu nity based programs. This blending of technology solutions into a hu man services discipline is greatly “return to print” edition of Corrections Today. I

enhancing efficiency, safety, security and treatment within corrections. One of the key benefits of incorporating technology into cor rectional operations is the ability to streamline processes and improve overall efficiency. Incorporating technology into a human services field such as corrections can be both beneficial and challenging. On one hand, technology can streamline processes, increase efficiency and improve data manage ment, ultimately leading to more effective evidence-based interven tions. For example, digital platforms are being utilized for case man agement, tracking progress and communicating with stakeholders. AI is already being utilized within a number of systems to process data and make critical decisions in near real time speed. However, there are also potential negative impacts when we don’t consider the transformation al power of “presence” when working with people. Over-reliance on tech nology can lead to depersonalization of services, reducing the human element crucial for building trust and fostering positive relationships. Therefore, finding a balance between utilizing technology to

enhance services while still priori tizing the human connection and ethical considerations is essential in the implementation of technol ogy in the corrections field. The cost of implementing new technology solutions can be perceived as a bar rier for some systems, particularly smaller ones with limited budgets. However, many technology provid ers now offer cost-effective solutions that can be tailored to fit the needs and budget constraints of different systems, making it easier for correc tional institutions of all sizes to take advantage of these tools. While there are challenges that must be addressed, the benefits of incorporating technology into cor rectional operations far outweigh the drawbacks. As we continue to strive for a more efficient and effective correctional system, technology will undoubtedly play a key role in shap ing the future of corrections. CT

Sincerely,

Robert L. Green ACA Executive Director

Fall 2024 | Corrections Today

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News&Views

IN MEMORIAM

Carol Ann Thomas Jan. 13, 1959 — July 5, 2024

The American Correctional Association (ACA) would like to let the ACA family know of the passing of Carol Ann Thomas on July 5, 2024. She enlisted in the United States Army in 1977. She was a proud veteran that served her country with dedica tion and honor for two decades. She retired with an honorable discharge receiving the patriotic rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7). Upon completing her military service, she continued her public service duty and started a second career with the Department of Corrections (DOC) for the state of Virginia as an Academy Instructor from 1998 2011. Moreover, she utilized her years of experience from the military and the DOC and became a certified America Correctional Association (ACA) auditor state-wide for the DOC. She was an active ACA auditor since 2011 and has also served as a chair. She will be missed by fellow ACA auditors and staff.

MEMBERS SPOKE AND ACA LISTENED: “Bring back the print edition of Corrections Today Magazine!”

ACA is receiving overwhelming feedback on the Summer 2024 issue of Corrections Today :

Enjoying the new print version of Corrections Today magazine?

“Rob — My congratulations on the return of the splendid hard copy edition of Corrections Today . You, Jeff and the ACA Board deserve a serious statement of commendation. An organization as diverse as the American Correctional Association needs a solid house organ of commentary, communications and organizational growth. ACA under your leadership nailed it.” — Art Wallenstein “As a member of ACA since 1977, I was pleased to see the return of “ Corrections Today ” in my mailbox. I look forward to receiving many more edition’s via the U.S. Postal Service. Thank you!” — Susan Galvin, Massachusetts Trial Court (Retired)

SEND US YOUR FEEDBACK AT PUBLICATIONS@ACA.ORG

Corrections Today | Fall 2024

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News&Views

CORRECTIONAL CHAPLAIN PERSPECTIVES

Emerging models to reach forensic populations By Chaplain Xavier Justice S erving correctional popula tions is challenging. The theoretical and practical recovery, re-integration, and reconcili ation . 2 Reentry refers to the process of living independently and prac ticing reciprocity, deference, and

achieve and maintain the activities of daily living. Recovery refers to the process of change toward improving overall health, wellness, and upward mobility. Reintegration involves the process of finding identity, purpose, and mission inside community. Rec onciliation involves the process of

helping models for correctional populations do not develop and advance as rapidly as for non-insti tutionalized demographics. Some models are worth mentioning. The concept of care, custody, and control is well established. 1 Custody refers to the removing of a citizen from the community and detaining him or her as part of the administra tion of justice. Control involves the targeting of recidivist behaviors and applying interventions to alter, limit or otherwise restrict the expression of such behaviors. Care involves inviting and engaging remedies that promote and enhance good bio-psycho-social-spiritual care outcomes. Chaplaincy, pastoral care, or spiritual care are within the care domain of the custody, control and care continuum. This concept and continuum superintends the range of services given by all of the differ ent service providers while a citizen is institutionalized. Another process applies to returning citizens after their time in confinement: reentry, rehabilitation,

compromise — consistent with com munity standards. Rehabilitation involves the process of regaining and improving total functioning to

Adobe Stock/pressmaster

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CORRECTIONAL CHAPLAIN PERSPECTIVES

righting wrongs, being restored and living in harmony with others. As part of a broader federal ini tiative to reduce criminal recidivism, the federal government has con tracted with The Nehemiah Project (TNP) to provide reentry transition al housing in Washington, D.C. for adult men that have been released from federal penal institutions. TNP utilizes the therapeutic com munity model as part of its housing approach. TNP also provides supported employment services to assist with the resident’s upward mobility and overall plan to acquire and maintain permanent housing. According to the American Medi cal Association (AMA), housing qualifies as healthcare treatment. 3 Employment is recognized as a critical social determinant of health. 4 Residential monitors, managers and specialists are the front-line ser vice providers in recovery, reentry, and transitional housing programs. TNP re-imagined the contemporary thinking around operating reentry or recovery homes and developed a new working model for the residen tial staff: safety, security, surveillance, service, and swift sanctions . Safety involves addressing any condition or situation that poses significant risk of causing property damage, loss, or physical harm to residents, staff, visitors, neighbors, and the public or community. Secu rity refers to all of the measures and countermeasures taken to protect the people, program, and property, and to ensure that only authorized people enter and leave the prem ises. Surveillance involves open and not-so-obvious observation of the residents to detect and discover

recidivist behaviors as early as pos sible and to deploy interventions to mitigate any increased risk posed by the residents. Service refers to the general and direct, person centered services provided by all of the staff to the residents. In order for these services to be effective and efficient, the services should be intentional, specific, measurable, relevant, and timely. Swift sanctions involves the expeditious application of positive and negative conse quences for good and bad behaviors exhibited by the residents. The new working model for TNP’s residential monitors became an essential feature in organizing how services are provided to the res idents. However, the working model was not as useful to the other staff that are not residential monitors. TNP reimagined and conceptual ized another model that could be utilized more broadly by the other interdisciplinary staff: conciliation, coaching, counseling, consultation, and care management. Conciliation refers to removing barriers to service, establishing links and connections to services, iden tifying and addressing compassion fatigue, resolving complaints and re storing relationships, and settling all intrapersonal issues that interfere with the resident’s ability to mean ingfully and measurably negotiate his challenges. Coaching involves as sisting the residents with decisions to improve life and health through empowerment by using the schema/ habituation model, stages of change, and stages of recovery. Counsel ing refers to using information, education, and research on bio-psy cho-social-spiritual health to help

residents improve decision-making in those domains. Consultation involves providing insight into the nature and progress of bio-psycho social-spiritual conditions so that residents can choose better options toward recovery and rehabilita tion, resilience, improved quality of life, and community integration. Care management refers to assisting residents with making measurable progress toward self-care and utiliz ing lower forms of care. A critical feature of care management involves providing continuous surveillance to ensure that the determinants of health are addressed in the resi dent’s case. “TNP reimagined and conceptualized another model that could be utilized more broadly by the other interdisciplinary staff: conciliation, coaching, counseling, consultation, and care management.” This emerging model can assist a broad range of crafts and trades within the helping professions that serve correctional and forensic populations. The features within the model resonate well with the salient components of salutogenesis and are similarly found inside the scopes of practice for board certified chaplains and neurotheologians,

Fall 2024 | Corrections Today

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News&Views

ENDNOTES 1 28 CFR § 551.100

neurocriminologists and certified traumatologists, forensic social workers and counselors, psychiatric rehabilitation specialists, communi ty health workers and forensic peer specialists, and victim advocates and other criminal justice profes sionals. As TNP puts forward this model, it is anticipated that the help ing professions will find and expand the utility of the model. TNP hopes that the interests of the community will coalesce around the enterprise of restoring the dignity of returning citizens and offer meaningful assis tance that will restore and integrate the returning citizen while measur ably reducing recidivism and the need for the interventions provided in institutions. CT

Chaplain Xavier Justice is the associate director of the Nehemiah Project (TNP) in Washington, D.C. TNP administrates a contract with the federal agency responsible for formerly incarcerated adults by providing reentry housing. He holds the certified clinical correctional chaplain from the American Correctional Chaplains Association. He is a KY state licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor and certified clinical supervisor. Additionally, he is a psychiatric rehabilitation educator (PRA), master addictions counselor (NAADAC), master clinical traumatologist (GCAT), certified group psychotherapist supervisor (AGPA), clinically certified forensic counselor (NAFC), clinical neurocriminologist (AIAFS), and forensic peer support trainer in the states of Maryland and Virginia.

2 American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies. (2023). Forensic Peer Support: What is it? Forensic Mental Health Insider, 6 (4), Fall 2023. 3 Robeznieks, Andis. (2021, August 13). Why a patient’s housing qualifies as a healthcare treatment. American Medical Association. https://www. ama-assn.org/delivering-care/population-care/ why-patient-s-housing-qualifies-health-care treatment. 4 Steege, Andrea. (2023, February 16). Work as a Key Social Determinant of Health: The Case for Including Work in All Health Data Collections. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science blog/2023/02/16/sdoh.

Find out more about TNP at: https://tnpdc.org

Setting a NEW Standard in Jails! American Correctional Association

• Enhance professionalism • Improve conditions of confinement • Enhance operations • Improve public credibility • Increase morale

Accreditation: Excellence in Jails “The ACA accreditation process is a mechanism of checks and balances, and causes correctional systems to assess all facets of their organization. When we take a critical examination of our organizational processes, it offers an opportunity for internal oversight. Correctional systems can identify challenges, discover solutions and implement operational best practices which will significantly improve organizational efficiencies.”

–Tony Wilkes, Chief of Corrections, Davidson County Sheriff’s Office (TN)

American Correctional Association Standards and Accreditation Department

Phone: (800) 222-5646 Email: davidh@aca.org • Web: www.aca.org

Corrections Today | Fall 2024

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Contact the ACA Professional Development, Membership & Engagement Department today to receive a customized proposal for your agency at acaprodev@aca.org

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NCOEW 2024

National Correctional Officers and Employees Week May 5–11, 2024

Thank you for your service!

Corrections Today | Fall 2024

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A Tribute to Professionalism, Dedication and Courage The first week of May marks National Corrections Officers and Employees Week as it has since it was fully inaugurated in 1984. It is the time set aside specifically to honor the significant contributions of corrections professionals all over the country. National Correctional Officers and Employees Week serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication, sacrifice and unwavering commitment of the women and men who work in our nation's correctional facili ties. These individuals, from correctional officers to administrative staff to healthcare providers, all play a critical role in upholding the rule of law, ensuring public safety and facilitating the rehabilitation and reentry of individuals in their care. The work of correctional employees is often challenging and fraught with risks, yet they carry out their responsibilities with professionalism, integrity and a steadfast sense of duty. They are the backbone of our criminal justice system. Let us not only applaud the tireless efforts of these dedicated professionals but also reflect on the im portance of their work in shaping a safer, more just society. Their contributions may often go unnoticed, but their impact reverberates far beyond the walls of our correctional facilities, shaping the fabric of our communities and contributing to a more equitable and secure future for all. We dedicate these seven days annually to recognize these great public servants, but we should not hesitate to make every day an opportunity to honor, praise and cherish all of the women and men in corrections.

With the highest honor and respect,

Denise M. Robinson ACA 108 th President

Robert L. Green ACA Executive Director

Opposite page: Photo courtesy Florida Department of Corrections; Background, this page: Adobe Stock/Leigh Prather

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National Correctional Officers and Employees Week

A Proclamation

Correctional officers and employees are capable, committed, patient and persistent professionals. They serve admirably in correctional facilities all across the country as chaplains, teachers, counselors, supervisors, managers and directors. They help keep our citizens and communities safe. Correctional officers and employ ees teach, train, mentor, preach and care. Though the job of correctional officers and employees is often very challenging and, at times, stressful, the thousands who work the correctional profession every day perform duties well and with great pride. They are brave, courageous and tenacious individuals who put their lives and health at risk every day to keep the public safe and provide a multitude of services to the nation’s offenders. They have a tremendous responsibility and are owed our nation’s gratitude. Correctional officers are most deserving of our respect, our thanks and the highest praise. They are well trained, always on watch and prepared to meet any challenge. The men and women working in corrections make a difference in our communities. On behalf of the American Correctional Association and our thousands of members in the U.S. and interna tionally, we commend all those who currently serve in the correctional profession, those who have served and those who have given their lives in pursuit of this most honorable occupation.

A Resolution

WHEREAS , correctional officers are trained law enforcement professionals dedicated to maintain ing safe correctional facilities and ensuring public safety; and WHEREAS , correctional facilities across the U.S., both civilian and military, public and private, adult and juvenile, are run by highly qualified and experi enced individuals with a deep understanding of the challenges within the profession; and WHEREAS , correctional officers and employees are responsible for the custody, care and rehabilitation of thousands of offenders every year, as well as the maintenance of safe and secure facilities; and WHEREAS , correctional officers and employees serve admirably in many different capacities, includ ing jail administrators, wardens, chaplains, nurses, supervisors, social workers, teachers, managers and directors; and

WHEREAS , correctional officers and employees teach, train, mentor, counsel and treat thousands of offenders; and WHEREAS , correctional officers and employees pro vide offenders with direction, hope and a new focus while assisting with reentry and life outside correc tions; and WHEREAS , correctional officers and employees rise to meet any challenge and serve this honorable pro fession nobly and admirably; and now THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED , correctional officers and employees deserve the recognition for their service and should be commended by leaders in the profession, and the public and our elected offi cials for the tremendous job they do and exceptional performance of duties under the most difficult of circumstances.

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Fallen Officers Memorial: The fallen officers memorial was erected on the New Jersey Department of Corrections’ (NJDOC) Central Office grounds in 2007 to honor the state correctional police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Photo courtesy Patrick Lombardi/New Jersey Department of Corrections

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NCOEW 2024

May 4, 2024, Washington, D.C.

32 nd Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony & Honor Guard Competition

By Kirk Raymond

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We pay tribute to those that made the ultimate sacrifice in service to justice and public safety Executive Director Rob Green gives keynote address at 2024 Correctional Officers Memorial

U nder a grey May sky in the Nation’s Capital, the corrections community gathered at the National Law Enforcement Memorial on Saturday May 4 th , 2024 to remember and honor the ultimate sacrifice made by nearly 1,000 correctional officers whose names are etched in stone at the memorial. Organized by the Metropolitan Council of Govern ments Corrections Chiefs Committee, the 32 nd annual Wreath Laying Ceremony began with a beautiful ren dition of the National Anthem by Deputy First Class Shekora Vaughn of the Loudoun County (VA) Sheriff’s Office and an invocation by Chaplin Michelle Reynolds of the Arlington County (VA) Sheriff’s Office. The keynote speaker for the

remember and even out loud say the name of our col leagues and our friends that are here. I would ask you, before you leave here today, walk the circle. View a name of an individual that perhaps has no family here; has no family left to remember them. That is the pur pose of this wall.” Green cited the number of names etched on the me morial when it was dedicated was just over 12,000 while this year it will exceed 24,000. “There are currently over 950 correctional officers, correctional employees and correctional professionals on this wall. In the past month alone, our colleagues across the country mourn the loss of five correctional professionals and two of our colleagues in the state of North Carolina will be laid to rest next week. “ The wreath laying ceremony

event was introduced by Rodney Lusk, the Metropolitan Council of Governments Board of Directors Vice Chair. American Correctional Asso ciation Executive Director Robert Green began by noting he had been coming to this memorial since it was first dedicated in 1991. “I’m proud when I look out across this audience and I see many of you who have been com ing for just as long to maintain

was at the beginning of National Correctional Officers and Employ ees Week which is a week set aside to honor current and past correc tional employees. “Today, during National Cor rectional Officers and Employees Week we pause to honor them. Remember those who labored with courage, dedication and unwaver ing commitment. In the shadows

Photo courtesy Carla DeCarlo/American Correctional Association

the honor of the only ceremony done at this wall that nationally recognizes corrections professionals,” Green began. He gave a history of the long effort just to make this memorial happen telling the crowd it began in the early 1970’s before being formally dedicated in 1991. Summing up these efforts, Green noted: “Through out history, humanity has utilized stones as a medium for commemorating individuals telling their stories, transcending centuries and culture. It has always been viewed as the highest honor.” He continued “It’s tree-lined walkways form an incredibly perfect path to walk along the wall and

of these walls are etched the names of those who gave their lives in the line of duty. Officers, administrators, parole and probation managers, case managers, friends, Moms, Dads, sisters, brothers and people we dearly love,” Green said. Turning to the families of the fallen, Green added “To the families and loved ones of the fallen we offer our deepest gratitude, our admiration and our respect for your sacrifice, your strength, your enduring love which is the bedrock that sent them to work everyday in this noble calling. Your unwavering support, your faith in the mission and the work that we do is a beacon of light in the darkness of loss and grief.”

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Opposite page: Easel: Adobe Stock/Misbakhul; NCOEW photo courtesy Carla DeCarlo/American Correctional Association

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NCOEW 2024

Green concluded his remarks by talking about the culture in the field of corrections. I would tell you that the culture of this profession is safe with each of you and the people who do this work every day. I have great hope for the future Tell your story. Protect your culture.” The wreath laying was preceded by the Roll Call of the fallen. Acting Deputy Warden Kelly Vick of the District of Columbia Department of Corrections, Lieutenant Linda Mahogany of the Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation and COII Mitchell Eddy of the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services took turns reading the names of correctional officers and employees who were being honored. A single bell rang after each name as a uniformed cor rectional officer stepped forward and laid a single rose on the memorial in their honor.

NCOEW photos courtesy Carla DeCarlo/American Correctional Association

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The Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office was the first place winner of the 2024 Honor Guard Competition.

When the reading of the names was concluded, a flight of doves was released and the birds flew quickly over the assemblage. Chaplain Reynolds presided over the wreath lay ing accompanied by Sergent Melisse Hoyer of the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office on the bugle and Mi chael McLean Jr. of the City of Alexandria Pipes and Drums and Lace Corporal Piper Isaac Colbert of the Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation on the bagpipes.

After the ceremony was concluded, the Montgomery County Department of Correctional Rehabilitation, the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office, Alexandria Sheriff’s Office, District of Columbia Department of Correc tions and Maryland Department of Public, Safety and Correctional Services participated in an honor guard competition. Judges rated the guards on their look and their performance. The Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office was declared the winner of the competition. CT

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NCOEW 2024 2024 Wreath Laying Ceremony

FALLEN CORRECTIONAL STAFF ACROSS THE U.S.

NAME

END OF WATCH

RANK

AGENCY

Jovian Jamal Motley Kelly Bernard Rolando Robert Danforth Clark Marcus Lee Ziegler Michael Robert Keel Donald Max Neiswinger Anthony J. Pasquarello Steven Paul Gitlin II Jason Scott Pulliam Jared John Miller

11/13/2023 10/22/2023 10/1/2023 5/26/2023 4/12/2023 1/18/2022 12/9/2021 12/8/2021 11/2/2021 10/15/2021 9/8/2021 8/17/2021 3/19/2021 2/13/2021 1/18/2021 12/29/2020 10/18/2020 8/1/2020 9/16/2011 9/20/1948 8/31/1943

Correctional Officer III Corrections Officer Correctional Officer I Corrections Deputy Maintenance Foreman Correctional Lieutenant

Texas Department of Criminal Justice Missouri Department of Corrections Georgia Department of Corrections

Hamilton County, Ohio S.O.

Indiana Department of Corrections Indiana Department of Corrections

Sergeant

Marion County, Oregon S.O.

Corrections Officer Probation Officer

Essex County, Massachusetts S.O.

West Virginia Division of Probation Services

Functional Unit Manager

Missouri Department of Corrections

Rodrigo Delgado Kolby Lee Baber Daniel J. Swain Jr. Jack Sale Stewart

CDPO II

San Diego County, California Probation Department Nebraska Department of Correctional Services

Corrections Corporal Correctional Officer Correctional Officer Probation Officer II Correctional Officer Deputy 1 st Class Corrections Officer Lieutenant

Florida Department of Corrections Florida Department of Corrections

Ralph Edwards Serrano

San Diego County, California Probation Department

Jeris Deon Davis

Mississippi Bureau of Investigation Indiana Department of Corrections Ascension Parish, Louisiana, S.O. Las Vegas Metropolitan, Nevada P.D. Campbell County, Kentucky P.D.

Shawn Allan Burnell Kyle Michael Melancon Victor Antoine Hunter August Utendoerfer Patrick Joseph Black

Juvenile Probation Officer U.S. Customs Service Officer

U.S. Customs Service

NCOEW photos courtesy Carla DeCarlo/American Correctional Association unless otherwise indicated.

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Remembering and Honoring the Fallen

FALLEN CORRECTIONAL STAFF IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, MARYLAND AND VIRGINIA

NAME

END OF WATCH

RANK

AGENCY

Carolyn A. Cross

9/17/2014 9/18/2007 2/1/2007 7/25/2006 4/18/2006 1/27/2006 6/27/2005 6/4/2001 12/31/1996 8/22/1995 10/7/1991 10/6/1984 1/27/1981 3/16/1975 11/30/1973 11/22/1971 7/23/1971 1/18/1965 1/18/1965 9/8/1963 2/13/1958 12/24/1957 6/18/1942

Deputy Deputy

District of Columbia Department of Corrections District of Columbia Department of Corrections District of Columbia Department of Corrections

Bucky Burk Sidney Smith

Correctional Officer Correctional Officer Correctional Officer Correctional Officer

David W. McGuinn

Maryland State Division of Corrections

William Burns

District of Columbia Department of Corrections

Jeffery A. Wroten James “Bo” Weaver Gregory Guy Collins

Maryland State Division of Corrections Dinwiddie County Sheriff’s Office Maryland State Division of Corrections

Deputy Sheriff

Correctional Officer II Correctional Officer

Amos Williams Charlie Barton

District of Columbia Department of Corrections

Deputy Sheriff

Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office

Ronald Richardson Herman L. Toulson, Jr. William G. Truesdale Ronald Barnes Michael R. Kirby Raul M. Monte Samuel L. Pickels James C. Vanneter Hugh L. Johnson

Correctional Officer Correctional Officer

District of Columbia Department of Corrections Maryland State Division of Corrections Alexandria Adult Detention Center Virginia State Department of Corrections District of Columbia Department of Corrections Virginia State Department of Corrections Virginia State Department of Corrections Virginia State Department of Corrections Virginia State Department of Corrections Virginia State Department of Corrections District of Columbia Department of Corrections Virginia State Department of Corrections Virginia State Department of Corrections

Deputy

Correctional Officer Correctional Officer

Captain

Employee Employee Employee

Hilton E. Bland

Correctional Officer Correctional Officer Correctional Officer

Michael G. Hughes

M.C. Taylor

Rudolph F. Guillen, Jr.

Employee

Photo courtesy Amanda DeCarlo

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TECHNOLOGY

CORRECTIONAL AI Promise, risks and the way forward

BY ROBERT CAMERON, PH.D.

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I magine a probation officer accessing her agency’s correctional information management system, which includes a newly implemented AI-powered risk prediction module. A red alert symbol flashes beside a client’s name on her caseload. The system’s algorithm has identified a client at increased risk of a probation violation, specifically, a possible relapse into substance abuse. The assessment was based on information gathered from the client’s social media accounts, case notes, treatment progress reports and recent phone messages and has flagged mention of the client attending a party recently. The risk assessment contradicts the PO’s professional judgment, so she spends several hours wading through social media posts, treatment notes and other informa tion to see what she can learn. As she suspected, the client has made consistent progress and is clearly com mitted to sobriety. The AI system incorrectly interpreted a social media post about a “party,” which was actually his young son’s birthday, and reached the wrong conclu sion about his current level of risk. This is the type of decision POs may increasingly confront: whether to trust their professional judgment or rely on an AI system’s prediction of a client’s imminent relapse. While the potential of AI to streamline process es, enhance decision-making and improve both client and public safety outcomes is enticing, it must be counterbal anced with the very real risks of harm, including errors. Mistakes by AI systems can undermine the principles of fairness, objectivity and rehabilitation that are fun damental to correctional practice. An AI tool might flag a client for increased supervision based on factors that are statistically correlated with recidivism but do not accurately reflect the individual’s current circum stances or potential for change. This could contribute to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where increased scrutiny and intervention increase the likelihood of reoffending. Careful planning, diligent design processes, input from diverse stakeholders and meaningful oversight are needed to protect both the humans involved and the integrity of the system. A comprehensive and enforceable ethical frame work is the first step in that process, but currently, there are no research-based frameworks to support AI develop ment (Munn, 2022). In short, correctional agencies lack the guidance needed to successfully navigate the specific challenges of AI development and implementation.

What is AI? AI encompasses a broad set of mathematical tech niques that range from simple rule-based approaches to more complex machine learning and deep learning applications. These mathematical models can identify patterns in very large data sets, make predictions and perform tasks that typically require human thinking to accomplish (IBM, 2023). AI use is wide-ranging, from curating online content to helping doctors diagnose illnesses and even driving autonomous vehicles. Other forms of AI, such as large language models (LLMs), like ChatGPT, mimic human thought and speech by harnessing the power of statistical probability. They can communicate using natural language by predicting what word should come next in a sentence to create a coherent response that seems quite human-like. “While the potential of AI to streamline processes, enhance decision-making and improve both client and public safety outcomes is enticing, it must be counterbalanced with the very real risks of harm, including errors.” These prediction algorithms and LLMs are powerful and quite useful, but they do not currently understand human contexts, human emotions or moral judgments, and, most importantly, they are subject to error. This is particularly concerning in justice contexts, like cor rections, that hold considerable sway over the lives of inmates, probationers and parolees under supervision. An error in the context of client supervision or manage ment can have profound, even life-long consequences, which mandates that highly skilled people make in formed, ethical decisions. Therefore, the application of AI to replace or augment human judgment should be

Opposite page: Background: Adobe Stock/MiaStendal; Machine Learning: Adobe Stock/Murrstock; Red flag: Adobe Stock/freebird

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