Corrections_Today_Spring_2026_Vol.88_No.1

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work there; however, female staff were permitted to work in male housing units. Karena resigned after two years, apparently from being upset over a verbal reprimand. Later, he continued his correctional career as an auditor, but his book did not elaborate on this experience. Analysis Despite his short career working in a jail setting, Karena’s observations in “Hey, Bossman!” are on point. His descriptions

of inmate visiting, medical care, property, etc. are reflective of what correctional institutions are: operations of a densely packed small town. Contrary to the public perception, these facilities are more mundane. He writes, “There was no random beatings of inmates with clubs…” (p. 56) and physical altercations are generally over by the time staff gets there. Contemporary observers of jails/ prisons may wonder why there was no reference to the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), a ubiquitous administrative mechanism or process for these

facilities. It should be noted that his memoir was based on his 2001-2003 correctional experience; PREA standards were promulgated in 2012. Even though Karena’s career as an officer came to a premature end, he reflected that he did not have an unsatisfactory career: “I recall how quickly I saw humanity go from being cruel and vulgar to show compassion and respect; a contrast that, at times, was very subtle… I gained an understanding of the way of life behind bars.” (p. 121-122). Jail staff will find “Hey, Bossman!” an accurate and easy read. CT

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