Commissioner Dan Martuscello Tackles Corrections Staffing CrisisMore than 5,000 people work in prisons in the North Country. For decades, they have been some of the most sought-after jobs, offering good pay and long-term benefits. But the prison landscape in New York is changing. Fewer people are incarcerated, facilities are closing, and the job market isn’t what it used to be. Prisons are now struggling to attract workers and the state wants to close more facilities, in part because of staffing shortages. U.S. Senate Committee On The Judiciary: John Wetzel Testifying On The Nations Correctional Staffing Crisis
Two legends in corrections have announced their retirement. While they will be missed greatly, we definitely wish them the very best and an incredible retirement. Commissioner Carol Mici Press Release Secretary Kevin Carr Press Release IDOC New Training & Development Center: Director Josh TewaltDirector Josh Tewalt was the visionary and driving force behind the success of this endeavor. Following the resolution of their correctional officer staffing crisis, the Idaho Department of Correction (IDOC) faced the challenge of certifying nearly 300 officers through the POST program. In a strategic move, IDOC acquired a 33,000 square foot building, establishing their inaugural Training & Development Center. This allowed them to centralize all training, including law enforcement certifications, in-house. With a tight deadline of just over two months for renovations, 36 residents from the Treasure Valley Community Reentry Center and Nampa Reentry Center volunteered their time and effort to make it happen. The dedication and attention to detail exhibited by these residents were instrumental in ensuring the Training & Development Center was ready for its first academy in January 2024. Following the success of the inaugural academy, the resident workers were invited back to the training center for a dinner event. This provided an opportunity for them to witness the completed space and receive personal thanks for their invaluable contribution. The collaborative efforts of Director Josh Tewalt and the committed residents truly made this achievement possible.
Here's how Maine's corrections commissioner wants to give inmates a shot at a better lifeSince his time as commissioner, Liberty has been working to give inmates a shot at a better life. Whether it be access to medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorder, more programming and vocational opportunities, or overhauling the solitary confinement unit. "It's all about outcomes," Commissioner Liberty said. "If the outcomes that we are trying to achieve are making Maine a safer state, making our community safer, this is how we make safe communities. We release people that are healthier, that are good citizens, and they don't return." She grew up next to a Pa. state prison; now she’s running the systemIN THE NEWS: Pennsylvania Department of Corrections DOC Sec. Dr. Laurel R. Harry sat down with PennLive to discuss her path to corrections, her focus as secretary and the legacy she hopes to leave. |