Correctional Agency sets three-year plan for ACA accreditation across all facilities

In a recent meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance, discussions centered on the Rhode Island Department of Corrections' ambitious plans for accreditation and strategic improvements. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as officials outlined their roadmap to enhance the state's correctional facilities.

The Director of the Department of Corrections shared a bold vision: to achieve full accreditation from the American Correctional Association (ACA) within three years. This initiative begins with the community corrections, training academy, and intake facility, followed by a phased approach to include all facilities, from medium to maximum security. The Director emphasized that this accreditation process operates on a three-year cycle, ensuring ongoing compliance and improvement.

In addition to accreditation, the Director highlighted the implementation of a strategic plan aimed at reducing recidivism rates. This plan, which is publicly available on their website, has been bolstered by the hiring of a dedicated individual to oversee its execution. Staff members have been mobilized into various committees, particularly focusing on recidivism reduction, where they have made significant recommendations to enhance programming within the correctional walls.

Senator Zerrier, a long-standing member of the committee, raised concerns about the persistent shortage of correction officers, which has remained around 9,100 for several years. He questioned the Director on how this staffing gap impacts prison operations and whether it necessitates reliance on overtime to maintain functionality. The inquiry underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the correctional system, as officials strive to balance operational needs with the goal of improving conditions and outcomes for inmates.

As the meeting concluded, the discussions left a lingering sense of determination among committee members and officials alike. The path forward is fraught with challenges, but the commitment to reform and improvement within Rhode Island's correctional facilities is clear. The coming years will be critical as these plans unfold, with the potential to reshape the landscape of corrections in the state.