The Alabama Department of Corrections has recently recruited a new class of members that they believe will enhance safety measures. However, concerns are still lingering about the current state of the state’s prisons.
After undergoing a ten-week training, 54 officers graduated on Thursday and are now set to be deployed to different prisons throughout Alabama. Presently, there are approximately 2,000 correctional officers serving across the state.
The conditions of state penitentiaries have become a cause for concern, especially after the discovery of three deceased inmates within the confines of Donaldson Correctional Facility in Bessemer earlier this month.
According to Commissioner John Hamm of ADOC, the key to solving the problem is to hire additional officers to maintain a watchful eye.
Hamm stated that having more resources would lead to a better reduction of violence and contraband within prisons.
Kyle Shaffern, a recent graduate, has been assigned to work at the Donaldson Correctional Facility. In his new role, he will be responsible for supervising, protecting, and caring for inmates, while ensuring their compliance with orders. Shaffern is committed to carrying out his duties with the utmost professionalism and dedication.
Shaffern expressed that the past ten weeks have provided significant preparation for him. He mentioned that the training regimen, which included early morning PT sessions, has helped him build endurance for the demanding 12-hour shifts at the camps.
According to Sen. Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro), who serves on the Joint Legislative Prison Committee, efforts are underway to renovate existing facilities while a new one is being constructed.
Singleton emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety not only for the inmates but also for the staff who work for them. He stated that these staff members have families waiting for them at home, which makes it crucial to prioritize their safety.
