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NDSP staff and residents say orientation, dynamic security and resident programs change facility culture
Summary
Staff and residents told legislators that a centralized orientation unit, a "normality" approach and resident‑led activities are central to changing prison culture and reducing incidents; resident workers described peer‑led Bible study, tournaments and new programs such as "Shining Light" and "Change starts here."
Staff and residents at the North Dakota State Penitentiary told the Senate Appropriations Human Resources Division that a centralized orientation unit, emphasis on normality and resident leadership are central to changing prison culture.
"Our orientation unit consists of 148 beds that are almost always full," said Joshua Hewson, the orientation case manager. Hewson said orientation is the first stop for male residents and that staff spend five weeks interviewing and assessing people to avoid snap judgements based only on the current charge.
Unit manager Lacey Zander…
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