Guam senators weigh reallocation of $5 million to fix prison generators, domes and security amid overcrowding

At a Committee of the Whole hearing, senators questioned Department of Corrections leaders on urgent repairs and operational shortfalls the department says must be fixed now if inmates and staff are to be kept safe. The hearing centered on Bill No. 368-37, which would allow use of funds previously earmarked for a new prison; proponents urged moving some of that money to immediate repairs and equipment.

The hearing’s witness panel included Fred Berdaglio Jr., director of the Department of Corrections; Roma Okada, the department’s administrative services officer; and Major Helen Lazama, operations commander. Berdaglio told senators the department is operating in “antiquated” buildings and outlined a short-term plan focused on restoring power, cooling and basic security systems. “We have facilities that are antiquated and are in need of fixing and repairs,” Berdaglio said. He described priorities that would guide any near-term spending: generators and backup power for buildings and dome tents; air-conditioning and plumbing repairs; improved fencing and interior barriers in open “dome” housing; security cameras and reliable video recording; and a chase/transport vehicle to prevent contraband drops and help move detainees to court.

Major Lazama testified about the conditions inside…