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02Nov

JAILCON21 National Online Corrections Professionals Awards

On Tuesday, October 26th, 2021, several individuals who have demonstrated dedication and excellence in the corrections profession throughout their careers were recognized during the Awards Ceremony for the JAILCON21 National Online Corrections Training Conference. NIJO Executive Director, Tate McCotter, presented awards to the recipients of the JAILCON21 National Online Corrections Professionals Awards.  McCotter also recognized agencies and individuals for earning NIJO National Accreditation and Professional Certification.

NIJO wishes to extend our congratulations to the following award recipients.

OFFICER OF THE YEAR

 

Corrections Deputy Ashton Merando Crawford County Sheriff's Office, KS

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards Awarded to a Certified Detention Officer, without regard to years in service, who has exhibited professionalism and dedication to the Office and the community during the past year. Officer Ashton Merando has been a Corrections Officer for the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office in Kansas for over 3 years. She has shown her willingness to do whatever is needed for this Office. She excels at her job and is not afraid to work and will work whenever she is needed and jumps at the opportunity to learn and do more. She recently, without hesitation, switched to a different shift that in no way benefited her, but benefited the jail staff as a whole. She will always ask what we need done or what she can do to help. She has shown her commitment to the Sheriff's Office and her value as an employee. Congratulations Deputy Ashton Merando!

HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

 

Corey Hanley Barrow County Sheriff's Office, GA

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards   Awarded to the Detention Center medical staff member who set the bar for jail medical programs and best represents the overall spirit of professionalism, caring, and dedication. This award is submitted by peer nominations from medical or detention staff members. When the facility made the decision to transition to a new medical service provider, Cory made the decision to stay on-board with the detention center and join the team being formed by the new provider, walking away from a recent promotion and new career opportunities with the former provider.  He did this because of his dedication to our detention center and the desire to remain a part of our family.  By making the decision to remain onboard, Cory significantly reduced many of the problematic logistical situations that typically occur in a transition of this nature all while showing outstanding leadership and morale in the process. Cory is also well liked and well respected by the staff of the facility.  Due to this, it is extremely rare to encounter situations of distrust or animosity between the security staff and the members of the nursing staff. Congratulations Corey Hanley!

SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR

 

Sergeant Donnell Carter Mobile County Sheriff's Office, AL

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards Awarded to Certified Detention Officers serving in a supervisory capacity who excel in their positions and are highly regarded by their staff for their consistent leadership, integrity, understanding and support, both professionally and personally, during the past year. Due to the untimely retirement of his reassigned Shift Commander, Sgt. Carter distinguished himself by going beyond the call of duty by humbly receiving the responsibility as Acting Shift Commander.  Sgt. Carter supervises over 40-50 staff members daily. Under Sgt. Carter's leadership, employee retention has been retained within his shift by recognition of Corrections Staff's achievements by voicing affirmations, team spirit and/or other morale boosters. Sgt. Carter efficiently reassured the Daily Work Assignments was completed in its entirety to staff the Corrections Facility to continue the Operations of Security. There were cases when additional Corrections Sergeants were assigned to his shift, but sometimes, Sgt. Carter was the only Security Supervisor for the entire Mobile County Metro Jail because of employee shortfall due to vacation, sick , CT, etc. Sergeant Carter also diligently embraces numerous employee call outs due to some employees, employee family member, etc. contracting COVID-19 and their adherence to health regulation requirements. Sgt. Carter conducts impromptu training sessions with his team, investigates complaints and rule infractions, responds to emergency incidents (medical, inmates refusing to lock down, attempt suicides, fights, etc.), investigates and receives inmate complaints via Jail ATM, grievances, completes security checks throughout the facility and/or buildings, documents and submits a Daily Shift Commander Activity Report, and much more. Congratulations Sergeant Carter!

DETENTION ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

 

Jail Commander Ed Roach Parke County Sheriff's Office, IN

  JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals AwardsThis award recognizes detention administrators who have shown exemplary leadership and contributed to the improvement of the jail environment positively for enhanced safety, security, and custody to benefit overall jail operations, officers, staff, inmates, and the general public. Jail Commander for 15 years, Ed Roach has many attributes, much knowledge of this career and truly has a passion for it and for others to exceed in this field. “I am currently a jail sergeant under Ed Roach, and I am thankful for his guidance and mentorship.  He is truly fair and consistent when it comes to inmate issues and also employee issues.” Ed could have retired years ago but has chose to remain working as Jail Commander due to his passion and drive.  He strives to remain in good physical shape by bicycling 30-40 miles each morning before the start of his day so that he is still physically able to do his job. We are a small department and fight keeping employees due to low pay and no overtime.  Ed’s plate is already full each and every day but he still drops everything to come in to work when needed or when short handed to fill in a shift if other jail officers are unavailable.

DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE AWARD (aka Overworked and Underpaid Award)

The "Dedication to Excellence" Award is awarded to a detention officer, supervisor, or administrator who in the past year has gone above and beyond normal expectations by working extra hours, making extra effort to ensure the safety and security of staff members, inmates, and the general public.

Corporal Valerie Bryant Tarrant County Sheriff's Office, TX

 

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals AwardsWe received 5 nominations for the recipient of the Dedication to Excellence Award!  Suffice it to say that Corporal Valerie Bryant is the epitome of being dedicated to excellence!

Corporal Bryant is assigned to the booking division and is the gang and intel corporal for the entire detention bureau. She is willing to work any day, hour, and often comes in on her days off. She has a great ability to dig and location information online that relates to inmates in or out of custody.  Many times staff members will contact Corporal Bryant and learn she is on her day off, but she never hesitates to offer her assistance. “Myself and my partner are blessed daily to work with Corporal Bryant. She has been instrumental in helping us with numerous investigations and case prep over the past several years.  She is hard working, dedicated and willing to assist no matter the time of day.” -- TCSO Gang Task Member “I have called upon Valerie to provide training on gang awareness and identification within the jail. Her knowledge and expertise is unmatched and definitely valued throughout our organization. She is truly an asset to the law enforcement community” -- North Regional Director for the Texas Gang Investigator’s Association There has not been one request that hasn’t been completed by Valerie within 24 hours of asking for assistance. In the investigations world – that is huge. She has an eye for spotting intelligence in the jail letters she reviews and quickly recognizes when our office needs to be notified of certain situations. Working with Valerie has been an honor. Congratulations Corporal Bryant!

DISTINGUISHED VALOR

 

Corrections Deputy Aaron Grace Roscommon County Sheriff's Office, MI

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals AwardsTypically this awarded goes to a detention officer, supervisor, or administrator who has put it all on the line, by either voluntarily risking his/her own personal safety to heroically serve and protect or who has made critical decisions or has taken preventive actions that ensured the safety and security of staff, inmates and the general public.  Normally, we think of the big time events that take place and miraculous events that take incredible courage and valor, and yet, when this nomination came in, it stood out because it exemplifies that sometimes small and simple acts of valor are just as important, particularly to those that they affect. On July 11th, 2021 a dispatcher came across the radio saying there was an EMS call in the parking lot of the Sheriff Department with a male patient having an allergic reaction to a bee sting. Officer Grace grabbed the epi pen that was at station two of the jail and started responding towards station three then to the parking lot. While going to station three Cpl. Frydrych radioed to Officer Grace to come to station three to assist him and Officer Grace responded he was already on his way. Upon entering station three, Cpl. Frydrych was asking for assistance locating an epi pen. Officer Grace informed him he already had one with him. Officer Grace could see visible hives all over the patient’s neck, back and leg areas. At approximately 14:47 Officer Grace administered (1) EpiPen to the passengers right mid-thigh area.  Officer Grace’s quick thinking and actions saved this individual in a matter of seconds. Officer Grace is 39 years old, married to wife Nicole and has two daughters Audrey and Eleanor. He has been with our department for 14 years, is also on Higgins Township Fire Department as assistant fire chief/EMS Coordinator for 21 years as well as Denton Township for over 8 years as an EMT. Officer Grace professionalism and dedication is a true asset to our department as well as the others he so valiantly serves. Congratulations and thank you for your life-saving actions, Deputy Grace!  

NIJO PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION

  The National Institute for Jail Operations developed the Professional Certification Program in response to the need to provide a respected national certification for individuals looking for a process that involved legal-based curriculum by an organization which supports and defends their agencies’ worthy goals and objectives.   NIJO Professional Certification is a professional designation - earned not issued - for jail and detention officers, supervisors, administrators and sheriffs who have demonstrated to possess the requisite understanding, knowledge, skills, experience and abilities to function to a specific level.  Achieving NIJO Certification is a significant accomplishment and reflects intense training, effort, experience and comprehension proving that an individual confidently knows and can follow clearly established laws and procedures in fulfilling his or her duties within a correctional facility.  
NIJO National Certified Corrections Executive

National Certified Corrections Executive (NCCE) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards

Lieutenant Tammy Waddell
Limestone County Sheriff's Office, AL

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards

Lieutenant Brad Fetner
Livingston County Sheriff's Office, MI

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards

Lieutenant Tarneseia Pringle
Livingston County Sheriff's Office, MI

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards

James Chipp
Box Elder County Sheriff's Office, UT

JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards

Scott Hargis
Duchesne County Sheriff's Office, UT



NIJO National Certified Corrections Officer

National Certified Corrections Supervisor (NCCS) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:

Colorado

Shawn Patrick French Montezuma County Sheriff's Office Deputy Isaiah R. Begayne Johnson
Montezuma County Sheriff's Office

Kansas

Joseph Norman Brill III Dickinson County Sheriff's Office Victor Burr Coffey County Sheriff's Office

Michigan

Sergeant Heather L. Mitcavish Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office Deputy J. Wood Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office

Missouri

George Gresham Boone County Sheriff's Office Stephanie Kopp Boone County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Christie McCaleb Boone County Sheriff's Office Trevor Murphy Boone County Sheriff's Office Eric Tobben Boone County Sheriff's Office

South Carolina

Sergeant Scott R. McDermott Lexington County Sheriff's Office

Utah

Sandra Barfuss Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Dale F. Bingham Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Deputy Kendell Hyer Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Amber L. Jones Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Zachary Miller Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Corporal Dave Nicholls Box Elder County Sheriff's Office J. Kevin Ward Box Elder County Sheriff's Office

NIJO National Certified Corrections Officer

National Certified Corrections Officer (NCCO) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:

Alabama

Lieutenant Latonya Chames Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Cassady Coleman Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Cody Davis Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Falon C. Hurst Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Michael McCaffrey Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Kimberly Mears Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Lynde Meeder Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Jordan Shekels Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Skyler Smith Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Captain Eric Starr Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Jordan Zarouali Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Latonya Chames Calhoun County Sheriff's Office

Arizona

Ronnie Calton La Paz County Sheriff's Office

Colorado

Heather Lanus Montezuma County Sheriff's Office Deputy Heather Stowe Montezuma County Sheriff's Office

Georgia

Detention Supervisor Kimberly Funderberg Forsyth County Sheriff's Office Deputy Sheriff Pamela Michele Vash Forsyth County Sheriff's Office

Kansas

Bryan V. Gentet Dickinson County Sheriff's Office Samantha Hinkle Dickinson County Sheriff's Office Kyle Hunt Dickinson County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Connie Jaderborg Dickinson County Sheriff's Office Lisa Marie Sawyer Dickinson County Sheriff's Office Connie E. Timbrook Dickinson County Sheriff's Office

Michigan

Todd Harger Kalkaska County Sheriff's Office

Utah

Deputy C. Buckley Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Stacie Chatterton Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Corporal Zachary Harris Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Joshua H. Christensen Duchesne County Sheriff's Office Paula J. Gilbert Duchesne County Sheriff's Office Deputy C. Woodhouse Duchesne County Sheriff's Office Logan Monsen Uintah County Sheriff's Office

NIJO ACCREDITATION

  NIJO Accreditation is an established process for correctional administrators to verify and be recognized nationally as compliant to what the law requires to run a constitutionally safe facility.  As the only such accreditation in the country, NIJO promulgates over 600 Legal-Based GuidelinesTM specific to each state, to ensure that detention and correctional facilities comply with current legal requirements applicable to each state, circuit court and federal rulings and statutes.  Achieving accreditation is not a walk in the park.  It requires legal-based policies and procedures, documentation and consistency on all levels.

NIJO is pleased to recognize three agencies that have achieved Accreditation or have repeated their accreditation cycle. 

Pennington County Sheriff's Office, SD

We would like to congratulate and recognize Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota. Led by Commander Rob Yantis, this amazing team and facility worked diligently and furiously to update their policies and procedures to what the law requires to achieve a Level I Accreditation status, the highest NIJO Accreditation status available. Congratulations on all your hard work and well-earned accreditation Pennington County Jail! JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards JAILCON21 Online National Corrections Professionals Awards

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JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference Summary

NIJO is pleased to report the success of another JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference at the JW Marriott in New Orleans, LA, August 17-19, 2021.  Despite some challenges related to the dreaded COVID-19, we had record attendance for both attendees and sponsors/vendors.

As in previous years, the conference sold out having over 300 corrections professions from several states including Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Colorado and Arkansas in attendance.St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office Honor Guard at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference

 

DAY 1 - August 17, 2021

The Opening Session of the conference began with a flag ceremony conducted by the Honor Guard from the St. Charles Sheriffs' Office.  A beautiful rendition of the national anthem was performed by Steven Fontenot of the St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office.  Welcome remarks were then given by our platinum sponsor, Dr. Rusty Bates of Quality Correctional Healthcare (QCHC), as well as host agency representatives: Chief Mike Haley of Washing Parish Sheriff's Office, Sheriff Marlin Gusman of Orleans Parish and Sheriff Greg Champagne of St. Charles Parish.

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference - Opening Session
Attendees were then privileged to hear from Jeff Landry, Louisiana Attorney General.  AG Landry expressed gratitude to attendees for the difficult jobs they perform each day in keeping inmates, staff and the public safe.

Following the opening session, individuals attended three 1.5 hour break-out training sessions with the option of five topics during every session.  Training sessions were taught by top corrections experts from across the country, including: Gary DeLand (President, DeLand & Associates); Dr. Steve Sampson (Founder, Institute for Social Intelligence; Chief Deputy Mike Haley, Ph.D. (Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, LA);  Ralph Bennett (Jail Administrator, Box Elder County Sheriff's Office, UT); Jon Garlick (MS, Ed.S., LPC, NCC, CHPP, CHTS, CJM); Dr. Johnny Bates (CEO, Quality Correctional Health Care); Lieutenant Richard Moats (Morgan County Sheriff's Office, AL); Todd Butler, Esq. (Phelps Dunbar);  (Sean Stewart (Expert Witness/Ret. Captain, Pima County Adult Detention Center, AZ); Nancy Killian (Lieutenant, Utah County Sheriff's Office, UT); Keith Hoskins (Central Region Administrator, NIJO and Ret. Jail Administrator, Boone County Sheriff's Office, MO);  Joshua Arnold (Director of Operations, NIJO); and Tate McCotter (Executive Director, NIJO).

 

Corrections Expert Gary W. DeLand Training at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Training Conference

 

Topics during the break out sessions ranged from the "De-Escalation Skills" to "How to Avoid the Inmate Manipulation Game" and and and a 5-person Panel on "Emerging Legal Issues" in corrections.  The panel consisted of NIJO Executive Director, Tate McCotter, renowned corrections expert Gary DeLand (President, DeLand & Associates) and attorneys Blake Hamilton (Partner, Dentons Durham Jones Pinegar) and Todd Butler (Phelps Dun

Jazz Band performs at Welcome Reception during JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Training Conference

bar).  Sessions throughout the conference were targeted for all levels of corrections from sheriff and jail administrator to line level staff, including a special session just for medical professionals in corrections.

During the afternoon session, sponsors and exhibitors set up in the Exhibit Hall in preparation for the afternoon Welcome Reception.  The Welcome Reception included attendees meeting and mingling with each other as well as with vendor participants.  Attendees enjoyed the event which included hors d'oeuvres and drinks and lots of great prize drawings sponsored by our generous sponsors.

Welcome Reception - JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference

DAY 2 - August 18, 2021

The second day started with a great Keynote Session with Special Guest Brandon Tatum of TheOfficerTatum.com.  Mr. Tatum is a former Tucson Police Officer, Founder of TatumReport.com, CEO of three companies, and co-founder of BLEXIT.  All attendeeKeynote Speaker Brandon Tatum at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Training Conferences enjoyed Brandon's charisma and enthusiasm as he shared stories of his life as a conservative Black American, his love of our country, and his appreciation for the heroes that work in law enforcement and corrections.

After the conclusion of the Keynote Session, attendees gathered in the Exhibit Hall to visit with 33 corrections-specific vendors to learn more about their products and services.  Brandon Tatum joined us in the Exhibit Hall to meet attendees and take pictures with them. Attendees enjoyed the energy in the Exhibit Hall as well as all of the great prizes that were given away during more prize drawings.  NIJO and all conference attendees, express our gratitude to all of our sponsors and exhibitors for their support at JAILCON which helps provide over 30 hours of legal-based training for corrections professionals.

 

Exhibit Time during JAILCON21 South

 

The afternoon of the second day consisted of two more 1.5 hour training sessions offering five topics per session.  Topics during the afternoon training consisted of titles such as "Crisis De-Escalation",  "Difficult Employees--Preventative Measures" and "Mental Health - Psychosis and Self Harm".  Training sessions on the 2nd day were taught by:  Chief Deputy Mike Haley, Ph.D. (Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, LA); Blake Hamilton, Esq. (Dentons Durham Jones Pinegar); Lieutenant Richard Moats (Morgan County Sheriff's Office, AL); Lieutenant Nancy Killian (Utah County Sheriff's Office, UT); Dr. Johnny Bates (CEO, Quality Correctional Health Care); Todd Davis, NCCE (Moseley Architects and Retired Jail Commander Alamance County Sheriff's Office, NC); Sean Stewart (Expert Witness/Ret. Captain, Pima County Adult Detention Center, AZ); Keith Hoskins (Central Region Administrator, NIJO and Ret. Jail Administrator, Boone County Sheriff's Office, MO); Joshua Arnold (Director of Operations, NIJO), and Tate McCotter (Executive Director, NIJO).

 

DAY 3 - August 19, 2021

The final day of the conference started off with an inspiring Awards Ceremony and Breakfast where correctional professionals and agencies from the southern region were recognized for their dedication and excellence in the corrections profession throughout their careers, especially during this past year.  NIJO Executive Director, Tate McCotter, presented the JAILCON21 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards.  (See article:  JAILCON21 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards).

 

JAILCON21 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards

 

Following the Awards Ceremony, there were two 1.25 hour training blocks, each consisting of five session choices.  The training sessions included topics of "Staff Challenges," "Stress, Anxiety and Trauma Management", and "Gang Intel - Pod Politics, Tattoos, Correctional Intelligence".   These training sessions were taught by top corrections experts from across the country, including: Chief Deputy Mike Haley, Ph.D. (Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, LA); Blake Hamilton, Esq. (Dentons Durham Jones Pinegar); Sean Stewart (Expert Witness/Ret. Captain, Pima County Adult Detention Center, AZ); Greg Folse, DDS; Todd Davis, NCCE (Moseley Architects and Retired Jail Commander Alamance County Sheriff's Office, NC); Keith Hoskins (Central Region Administrator, NIJO and Ret. Jail Administrator, Boone County Sheriff's Office, MO); and Joshua Arnold (Director of Operations, NIJO).

 

You may also be interested in:  JAILCON21 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards

 

 

AG Jeff Landry Opening Session JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections TrainingConference
Corrections Expert Gary W. DeLand Training at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Training Conference
Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference - Opening Session
St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office Honor Guard at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference
Jazz Band performs at Welcome Reception during JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Training Conference
Exhibit Time during JAILCON21 South
Exhibitors - JAILCON21 South
Exhibitors - JAILCON21 South
Exhibitors - JAILCON21 South
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JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference Keynote Speaker - Brandon Tatum
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Brandon Tatum meets with attendees at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference
NIJO Staff preparing for check-in at JAILCON21 South
Brandon Tatum at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference
NIJO Staff with JAILCON21 South Keynote Speaker Brandon Tatum
Exhibit Area at JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference
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26Aug

JAILCON21 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards

Several individuals who have demonstrated dedication and excellence in the corrections profession throughout their careers were recognized during an Awards Luncheon held in conjunction with JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference on Thursday, August 19, 2021, at the JW Marriott in New Orleans, Lousiana. NIJO Executive Director, Tate McCotter, presented awards to the recipients of the JAILCON21 Southern  Region Corrections Professionals Awards.  McCotter also recognized agencies and individuals for earning NIJO National Accreditation and Professional Certification.  

NIJO wishes to extend our congratulations to the following award recipients.

OFFICER OF THE YEAR

Sergeant Barry Cooper Jr. Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, LA

Barry Cooper Jr_Officer of the Year_JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Professionals Awards Barry Cooper Jr. has been on staff for slightly less than two years. During his time on staff, he has proved to be an exemplary and creative employee.  Sergeant Cooper performs all jail investigations and has been instrumental in helping to build criminal cases against several inmates. He is an excellent report writer and is a certified instructor in several disciplines including Taser, OC spray, pepper ball and defensive tactics. He now functions as the primary trainer for our jail personnel. Sergeant Cooper has a calm demeanor, works closely with his supervisors and is currently being considered as the future Chief of Corrections when I retire in about two years. I see a very bright future for him in corrections as he continues to develop as a leader. He has quickly gained the confidence of our Sheriff and his administrative staff. Barry is a man of integrity and highly deserving of this recognition." -- Chief Deputy Mike Haley, Washington Parish Sheriff's Office (LA)

HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Charlotte Turner Morgan County Sheriff's Office, AL

Charlotte Turner_Health Care Professional of the Year_JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Professionals Awards "Nurse Charlotte Turner has been the leader of the contracted medical unit in the Morgan County Jail since 2013. Though we have changed medical providers in that time, we made it clear that we wanted Charlotte to stay on with the new company. Her contributions to our facility have been immeasurable, as well as her ability and drive to maintain a comprehensive medical unit. Nurse Charlotte cares as much about our facility as anyone and works tirelessly to ensure inmates are provided the best healthcare they can receive. In early 2020, when the COVID pandemic was in the infant stages, Nurse Charlotte wisely instituted procedures in our facility to proactively reduce the chances of COVID making it inside. She worked closely and tirelessly with jail and Sheriff’s Office leadership to institute new protocols for daily operations that would protect our inmates. She fervently stayed on top of the latest research and practices, more times than not, suggesting protocols that would later come to light as CDC guidelines. With Nurse Charlotte’s efforts and leadership, our facility made it through the peak of the pandemic with ZERO inmate cases of COVID-19. Aside from being an outstanding advocate for the health and well-being of our inmate population, Charlotte has become a member of our MCSO family. She has never hesitated to put the best interest of others aside to make sure that inmates received the care needed, to maintain the standard of care expected, and promote positivity among staff and fellow nurses. Charlotte is often the defacto advise giver for much of our jail staff when ailments arise. I myself have even found myself suffering from a sudden on-set virus and the first person I called was Charlotte. We are proud to tell everyone about our medical department and the innovations that have gone from thought to reality because of Nurse Charlotte. There is no one more deserving of recognition for her efforts in the medical field of Corrections." -- Aaron Dawson, Warden, Morgan County Sheriff's Office (AL)

SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR

Yvonne Oliver Montgomery Municipal Jail, AL

 

Yvonne Oliver_Supervisor of the Year_JAILCON21 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards

Corporal Yvonne Miller has shown exemplary leadership and has contributed to the improvement of the jail environment positively for enhanced safety, security, and custody to benefit overall jail operations, officers, staff, inmates, and the general public.  She has the ability to work and assist in every aspect of daily operations in the jail and continues to exhibit her professional and leadership skills, demonstrate good judgment, and proficiently handle challenges as they arise. Corporal Oliver battles in the trenches with officers that she supervises. She holds her subordinates accountable by enforcing the rules and regulations of the department. Corporal Oliver maintains professionalism and she displays a positive attitude at all times." -- Lt. Yvonne Rogers, Montgomery County Sheriff's Office (AL)

DETENTION ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

Chief Matt Cooper Marshall County Sheriff's Office, AL

Chief Matt Cooper_Detention Administrator of the Year_JAILCON21 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards "In 2019, Chief Matt Cooper became a member of my command staff to run a jail that was left by the former administration in chaos. The inmates were practically running the jail. I needed someone to come in and implement new procedures and policy and take command of the jail. And that person was Matt Cooper. Matt has used his prior experience in jail management to take charge of a jail that was is despair and turn it around. He has worked at all levels in corrections and has developed leadership skills to gain compliance from inmates. Also, he is well respected by those he supervises. When my administration began, the jail had sixteen hours a day healthcare through the week, and twelve hours on the weekends. Matt help develop a plan to implement 24 hour, 7 days a week healthcare for this jail. This help cut down on medical costs and unnecessary emergency room visits. By implementing a new healthcare policy, this put the jail and the sheriff's in excellent shape to handle the unknown, COVID-19. The healthcare staff was instrumental in adopting and adhere to CDC guidelines for inmates and employees. Chief Cooper developed new booking policies, develop procedures to minimize face to face contact in the jail, work with other agencies on inmate admissions, developing a cleaning schedule of the jail, and help to find ways to use Cares Act money to purchase a body scanner with thermal heat detection (fevers). Because of this, we have only had one positive case in the jail inmate population to date." -- Sheriff Phil Sims, Marshall County (AL)

DISTINGUISHED VALOR

 

Cathy Evans Morgan County Sheriff's Office, AL

Catherine Anne Evans_Distinguished Valor Award_JAILCON21 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards "On May 14, 2021 Morgan County Corrections Officer Catherine Ann Evans was serving dinner to the inmates in her assigned housing unit. While serving meals to inmates in the Bravo-3 housing unit, she was approached by an inmate inquiring about a privilege given to the inmates that they had not receive. Officer Evans explained to the inmate that the privilege was not taken away but would not be given immediately. The inmate became irate towards Officer Evans, she instructed him to back away, and the inmate struck her unexpectedly to the right side of her face rendering her nearly unconscious. Officer Evans had the fortitude to fight through the pain and request assistance over the jail radio systems. Once help arrived, Officer Evans was taken to medical to be evaluated by nursing staff. The medical staff suggested that Officer Evans be sent to the Emergency room, at which time she began to argue that she wouldn’t let this situation keep her from her job. Only after being ordered by her Shift Sergeant to go to the hospital did she agree. Upon being evaluated at the hospital, it was discovered that Officer Evans had suffered a concussion, severe facial lacerations, contusions, broken and misaligned teeth, and deep bruising to her cheek, orbital, and jaw bones. Even with these injuries, Officer Evans argued with medical personnel that she wanted to return to work immediately. Against her desires, Officer Evans heeded medical advice and was out of work for nearly three weeks recovering. Upon her follow up appointment with her care providers, she demanded to be allowed to return to work, when asked by her Supervisors as to why, she stated “There is no way I’m going to let this change the way I do my job, I want to get back and show them that they can’t get to me.” Upon returning to work, Officer Evans did just that. Her first act upon returning was to make a walk about the whole facility and dispel the rumors that had spread through inmate.com that she would not be returning. A moment of true valor and resilience for a Corrections Officer who had experienced one of the worst situations you could face in our profession. Officer Evans is looked upon as a mother or grandmother figure to many of her co-workers. She stated many times throughout her recovery that she could not wait to return to her family. There is no better or more deserving person for this type of recognition than Catherine Ann (Cathy Ann) Evans." -- Aaron Dawson, Warden, Morgan County Sheriff's Office (AL)

DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE AWARD (aka Overworked and Underpaid Award)

This year, NIJO was pleased to award two individuals the "Dedication to Excellence" Award for a detention officer, supervisor, or administrator who in the past year has gone above and beyond normal expectations by working extra hours, making extra effort to ensure the safety and security of staff members, inmates, and the general public.

Lisa Draper Livingston County Sheriff's Office, IL

 

Sergeant Lisa Draper_Livingston County Sheriff's Office IL_JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Professionals Award_Dedication to Excellence Award

"Sergeant Lisa Draper dedicates herself to making the working environment at the Livingston County Jail safe, secure and positive.  Sergeant Draper has sacrificed many holidays, and family time to ensure the success of new commissary, phone system, tablets, and other programs.  All of these programs have been implemented without difficulty, and on most occasions, she continues to do her daily supervisor duties while getting involved in the extra work. She is instrumental with keeping our federal detainee housing program a success as well. Sergeant Draper continually gives up her own time to cover overtime shifts no one else wants to work. She is the prime example of how supervisors are supposed to be--a mentor and positive role model for their  troops.  She is extremely selfless and does not think twice about jumping in when and where needed. She goes the extra mile for every one of her officers and ensures their training and needs are addressed in a timely manner. Sergeant Draper has given up many of her days off to make the Livingston County Jail a better place to work."  -- Kevin McKinsey, Training Officer, Livingston County Sheriff's Office (IL)  

Jason Hutson Parke County Sheriff's Office, IN

Jason Hutson_Dedication to Excellence_JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Professionals Awards "Our county does not pay overtime, so all employees earn comp time for extra hours worked.  We are one of the lowest paid counties in terms of salaries for jail staff.  Due to our history of low pay and the current climate, we have been struggling to maintain a full staff of jail officers for years.  We also have always struggled with being able to get off duty jail officers to volunteer to come in when short staffed due to their being no extra financial compensation.  Jason Hutson has always set the bar for dropping everything and answering the call when we are short staffed or a medical emergency arises in the jail and we need extra officers to help transport, cover a shift, sit in the hospital, etc. Jason always answers his phone, has never complained or tried to make excuses and is always his normal, jovial self.  His temperament and sense of humor is always uplifting to staff and even inmates alike and he works great with all staff members.   Jason is a type 2 diabetic and one of his three children are also severely diabetic, but still always answers his phone and always is the first to volunteer to come in all while finding a caregiver for his daughter.  This is all due to his desire and understanding the importance of managing and maintaining safety and security of a jail facility while only receiving an endless supply of comp hours that can never realistically be used.  Jason also provides excellent and personable service to those who enter the jail lobby when he is running our  central command area due to his long years of experience and expertise.  His reliability exceeds that of any other employee in our department." -- Sheriff Justin Cole, Parke County Sheriff's Office (IN)

NIJO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S AWARD (aka Gary W. DeLand Award)

This award is rightly named after NIJO Board Member, Gary DeLand, who knows more about corrections hands down than any person on this planet!  The award recognizes extraordinary service to the detention and corrections field by an individual based on leadership, knowledge and contributions to the corrections profession. 

Todd Davis Moseley Architects

 

Todd Davis_Executive Director's Award aka Gary W. DeLand Award_JAILCON21 Southern Regional Corrections Professionals Awards


NIJO PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION

  The National Institute for Jail Operations developed the Professional Certification Program in response to the need to provide a respected national certification for individuals looking for a process that involved legal-based curriculum by an organization which supports and defends their agencies’ worthy goals and objectives.   NIJO Professional Certification is a professional designation - earned not issued - for jail and detention officers, supervisors, administrators and sheriffs who have demonstrated to possess the requisite understanding, knowledge, skills, experience and abilities to function to a specific level.  Achieving NIJO Certification is a significant accomplishment and reflects intense training, effort, experience and comprehension proving that an individual confidently knows and can follow clearly established laws and procedures in fulfilling his or her duties within a correctional facility.  
NIJO National Certified Corrections Executive

National Certified Corrections Executive (NCCE) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:

Matthew Hayes Limestone County Sheriff's Office, AL

Matthew Hayes_NCCE_NIJO National Certified Correction Executive

Mark Heard Limestone County Sheriff's Office, AL

Mark Heard_NCCE_NIJO National Certified Correction Executive

Keith Hoskins (RET) Boone County Sheriff's Office, MO

Keith Hoskins_NCCE_NIJO National Certified Correction Executive

Jeremy Rudy Blount County Sheriff's Office, AL

NIJO National Certified Corrections Officer

National Certified Corrections Officer (NCCO) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:

Nicholas Deerman Calhoun County Sheriff's Office, AL

Deputy Kevin C. Hickey Wayne County Sheriff's Office, IN

Kevin Hickey_NCCO_NIJO National Certified Corrections Officer

Dell Kubler Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, GA

Dell Kubler_NCCO_NIJO National Certified Corrections Officer

Kimberly Watson Baldwin County Sheriff's Office, AL

Kimberly Watson_NCCO_NIJO National Certified Corrections Officer

Sheriff Matthew Wade (1st Sheriff to ever get certified!) Calhoun County Sheriff's Office, AL

NIJO ACCREDITATION

  NIJO Accreditation is an established process for correctional administrators to verify and be recognized nationally as compliant to what the law requires to run a constitutionally safe facility.  As the only such accreditation in the country, NIJO promulgates over 600 Legal-Based GuidelinesTM specific to each state, to ensure that detention and correctional facilities comply with current legal requirements applicable to each state, circuit court and federal rulings and statutes.  Achieving accreditation is not a walk in the park.  It requires legal-based policies and procedures, documentation and consistency on all levels.

NIJO is pleased to recognize three agencies that have achieved Accreditation or have repeated their accreditation cycle. 

Baldwin County Sheriff's Office, ALInvestigationsDetails

Baldwin County first achieved their Level II Accreditation status in October of 2018.  They restarted their 3-year cycle and obtained Level I Accreditation status to continue forward. Congratulations Baldwin CSO!  
Baldwin County Sheriff's Office Alabama Level I - NIJO National Accreditation

Shelby County Sheriff's Office, ALNIJO Accreditation_Level 1_Shelby County Sheriff's Office_Alabama

Shelby County Sheriff's Office first achieved their Level I Accreditation status in August of 2017. This certificate acknowledges Shelby County has maintained their Level I Accreditation for their 2nd year.  Congratulations to all the staff at Shelby CSO!
Shelby County Sheriff's Office_AL_NIJO Level 1 National Accreditation

Wayne County Sheriff's Office, INWayne County, Indiana Sheriff's Office

Wayne County Sheriff's Office first achieved their Level I Accreditation status in January of 2017. This certificate acknowledges Wayne County has maintained their Level I Accreditation for their 2nd year.   Congratulations to all the staff at Wayne CSO!  
Wayne County IN_Level I_National Accreditation

Boone County Sheriff's Office, MOBoone County Sheriff's Office_Level 1_NIJO Accreditation 2021

Boone County Sheriff's Office first achieved their Level II Accreditation status in June of 2019. This certificate acknowledges Boone County has maintained their Level II Accreditation for their 3rd year. (Unfortunately, due to a flight change, they were not able to be at the Award Ceremony to receive their recognition.) Congratulations to all the staff at Boone CSO!

Congratulations to all of these outstanding and dedicated professionals and their agencies.  You are the unsung heroes of law enforcement.  We appreciate you and are dedicated to providing legal-based training and resources for the employees of jails and detention facilities across the country.

 

You may also be interested in: JAILCON21 Southern Regional Conference Summary

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16Jul

JAILCON21 Western Region Corrections Professionals Awards

Several individuals who have demonstrated dedication and excellence in the corrections profession throughout their careers were recognized during an Awards Luncheon held in conjunction with JAILCON21 Western Regional Conference on Thursday, July 1, 2021, at the Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Jail Commander Don Bischoff of Mohave County Sheriff’s Office presented the ASA Jail Commander’s Awards on behalf of the Arizona Sheriffs’ Association and NIJO Executive Director, Tate McCotter, presented awards to the recipients of the JAILCON21 Western Region Corrections Professionals Awards.  McCotter also recognized agencies and individuals for earning NIJO National Accreditation and Professional Certification.

NIJO wishes to extend our congratulations to the following award recipients.

2021 WESTERN REGION OUTSTANDING CORRECTIONS PROFESSIONAL AWARDS

Detention Facility Innovation Award
Apache County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

Detention Facility of the Year Award - Apache County Sheriff's Office

The Apache County Sheriff’s Office Training Unit developed and implemented an in-house basic detention officers academy which did not exist before. “We have traditionally sent our detention officers to outside agencies for training and then had to train them to our jail upon their return. What makes this academy program stand out is that the field training portion of the cadets training was incorporated into the academy so at the end of ten weeks the graduating Detention Officer was ready to go to his/her shift and immediately be able to work independently as a detention officer.  The academy allowed ACSO to shorten the time an officer spent in training as well as identifying persons who were not suited for the profession very early in the process saving time and money to the county. The members of the training unit as well as all the supervisors up to and including the Chief Deputy are involved in teaching during the academy which has made for a much tighter bond with the staff and the supervisors.

Lots of hard work, long hours and a lot of ‘out of the box’ thinking went into creating and implementing the program. In 2020, the training staff was able to run nine  academies in addition to all of the regular in-service trainings that are required every year.  While they went through the year the training staff also identified issues that we had in the policy manual and were able to do a complete re-write of our policies and procedures.”

Congratulations to Commander Michael Cirivello and staff for receiving this prestigious award!

NIJO Dedication to Excellence Award
(aka Overworked and Underpaid Award)

This year, NIJO was pleased to award two individuals the “Dedication to Excellence” Award for a detention officer, supervisor, or administrator who in the past year has gone above and beyond normal expectations by working extra hours, making extra effort to ensure the safety and security of staff members, inmates, and the general public.

 

Nicole Beckett
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, CO

“Nicole does not wait for legislation but understands where theNicole Beckett_Douglas County Sheriff's Office, CO criminal justice trends are, and devises plans on how to meet these constantly changing needs of our inmates and our communities and has done so in the last year.  She demonstrated this skill as she has continued to pursue implementing a Medication Assisted Treatment program for the Douglas County Jail within this past year.  She toured other programs to find the right “fit” for Douglas County, she worked with a consultant on the process, she sought the buy in from our medical vendor, and she ultimately was tasked with writing the contract to set this program in motion.

Nicole has grown the Reintegration program immensely since she has assumed this position.  Examples of this include the large increase (over 200%) in grant funds that she has sought and received and the increase in staffing.  She has expanded her network to involve many community partners as well as Criminal Justice Administrators in the entire state and beyond.  This recipient was one of the first employees in the Office to recognize the need to track inmates waiting competency. She not only developed a tracking mechanism to ensure that they would not languish in jail waiting to go the Colorado Mental Health Institute, but she looked to creative solutions such as getting the County Attorney involved in addressing the needs of the inmate.

Ms. Beckett also possesses immense administrative skills.  She produces a large portion of the grant documents (over $500,000 so far), she tracks expenditures, and she is the subject matter expert on the grants under her supervision.  She has attended Board of County Commissioner meetings when her grants and contracts have been on the agenda so she can provide answers to any questions our commissioners have.  She captures the work that the programs have produced in documents used for our annual report.  She also uses this report to inform our partners of the program successes.”

 

Ronica Hickey
Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

Dedication to Excellence_Ronica Hickey_Mohave County Sheriff's Office AZ

“Ronica Hickey has the ability to interact with new inta

ke inmates to complete a very important classification assessment but also has the ability to interview existing inmates to further collect information and intelligence from within our operation from the inmate perspective. Her approachable personality has been a valuable asset to the classification system and has given h

er commander a great deal of comfort in knowing that we are doing our best to make our classification system work given the framework we have to work within.

Several years ago, Ronica was also tasked with inmate medical claims coding and processing with literally no training at all and having had no prior experience to aid in her taking on that monumental task. Without a complaint or concern, she took on the project and owned it in a very short period of time. Since that time, many of those “coding” duties have been outsourced but she is the point person and now has even taken on more medical claims related activities involving AHCCCS, Arizona’s Medicaid system.

Ronica has an amazing work ethic and stands ready to take on any task or special assignment directed toward her. Even during difficult times in her personal life, she was always ready to accept the next challenge. It brings great comfort to me as an administrator in knowing that when an employee is given a task, I have full faith and confidence in knowing the task will not only be completed, but in a timely and professionally manner.”

 

Corporal Michelle Meins
Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, KS

As stated in her nomination, Corporal Meins goes over and beyond her duties to keep things going.  She has the task of going through all the inmate files and making sure everything is in order and fixing all the mistakes that other people have made during the booking process before the files go up to the records department — and, believe me, that is not an easy task ! She is always willing to work overtime when needed whether it is coming in early or staying over late, which happens often. She is always willing to help others when they struggle with things at work and even outside of work.

 

Executive Director’s Award
aka Gary W. DeLand Award)

 

This award is rightly named after NIJO Board Member, Gary DeLand, who knows more about corrections hands down than any person on this planet!  The award recognizes extraordinary service to the detention and corrections field by an individual based on leadership, knowledge and contributions to the corrections profession. 

Rachel Love
Struck Love Bojanowski & Acedo PLC

Attorney Rachel Love (Struck Love Bojanowski & Acedo PLC) Award Recipient of NIJO Executive Director AwardRachel focuses her practice on defense of America’s corrections departments, jail systems, and law enforcement agencies and their officers in civil rights litigation, including defense of 42 U.S.C. § 1983, Bivens and tort actions, class actions, and complex multi-party litigation matters filed in jurisdictions across the United States. Rachel is respected for specialized defense of excessive force, inmate assault/homicide, sexual assault, inmate suicide, inmate disturbance response, STG/gang management, maximum custody management, classification, conditions of confinement, deliberate indifference to medical needs, retaliation, religious rights, First Amendment challenges, publications, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death claims filed by inmates and inmate advocacy groups.

 


 

NIJO PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION

The National Institute for Jail Operations developed the Professional Certification Program in response to the need to provide a respected national certification for individuals looking for a process that involved legal-based curriculum by an organization which supports and defends their agencies’ worthy goals and objectives.   NIJO Professional Certification is a professional designation – earned not issued – for jail and detention officers, supervisors, administrators and sheriffs who have demonstrated to possess the requisite understanding, knowledge, skills, experience and abilities to function to a specific level.  Achieving NIJO Certification is a significant accomplishment and reflects intense training, effort, experience and comprehension proving that an individual confidently knows and can follow clearly established laws and procedures in fulfilling his or her duties within a correctional facility.

 

National Certified Corrections Executive (NCCE) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:

 

Commander Ralph Bennett
Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office, UT

Lt. Michelle Greenlee
Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office, MI

Ryan Hurd
Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office, UT

Hollie Lucas
La Paz County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

 

JAILCON21 West National Certified Corrections Executive (NCCE) Recipients


National Certified Corrections Officer_Pima County Sheriff's Office_MattesNational Certified Corrections Officer (NCCO) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:

Barbara Mattes
Pima County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

 

 

NIJO ACCREDITATION

 

NIJO Accreditation is an established process for correctional administrators to verify and be recognized nationally as compliant to what the law requires to run a constitutionally safe facility.  As the only such accreditation in the country, NIJO promulgates over 600 Legal-Based GuidelinesTM specific to each state, to ensure that detention and correctional facilities comply with current legal requirements applicable to each state, circuit court and federal rulings and statutes.  Achieving accreditation is not a walk in the park.  It requires legal-based policies and procedures, documentation and consistency on all levels.

NIJO is pleased to recognize two agencies that have achieved Accreditation or have repeated their accreditation cycle.  

Pima County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

Pima County Sheriff’s Office (AZ) was first recognized for achieving NIJO accreditation at JAILCON18.  Since then, to maintain that accreditation, they have shown considerable dedication and effort in keeping policies, procedures and actual practices up to date.  As many of you know, last year there were over 50 changes to the legal-based guidelines alone! When case law changes, the legal-based standards change. And when standards change, policies and procedures and training also need to be modified accordingly. Congratulations to  Sheriff Chris Nanos, Chief Jesus Lopez, and their entire Sheriff’s office and Detention staff for this award. 

Pima_County Sheriff's Office earns National Accreditation through NIJO

 

Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

Pinal County Sheriff’s Office (AZ) was the first county in the entire country to achieve reaccreditation Level I status – the highest that can be awarded by NIJO. Since their initial accreditation in 2012, Pinal County Detention Facility has worked diligently to keep its policies and ongoing operational practices current and compliant to the law and the Arizona Legal-Based Guidelines amidst intense budget cutbacks, depleted staff, and numerous other challenges.  Their facility was just re-accredited to a Level One Reaccreditation in January 2021.  Congratulations Sheriff Lamb, Chief Matt Hendricks and the entire Pinal County Sheriff’s Office and Detention staff!

Sheriff Mark Lamb and Pinal County Sheriff's Office earn NIJO National Accreditation

 

 

2021 ARIZONA SHERIFFS’ ASSOCATION AWARDS

Also recognized at the conference were the following Arizona Sheriffs’ Association Awards:

 

Pedro Alvarez_Yuma CountyRookie of the Year 

Officer Pedro Alvarez
Yuma County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

 

 

 

 

Clayton Hawthorn_Mohave CountyDetention Officer of the Year

Officer Clayton Hawthorn
Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

 

 

 

 

 

Supervisor of the Year

Sergeant John Marquez
Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

 

 

 

 

 

Lyndi Weaver_Mohave CountyCivilian Employee of the Year

Lyndi Weaver
Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mary Hynek Award / Healthcare Professional of the Year

Lisa Hirsch
Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

 

 

Don Bischoff_Mohave CountyCommander of the Year

Don Bischoff
Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, AZ

 

 

 

 

 

Congratulations to all of these outstanding and dedicated professionals and their agencies.  You are the unsung heroes of law enforcement.  We appreciate you and are dedicated to providing legal-based training and resources for the employees of jails and detention facilities across the country.

 

You may also be interested in: JAILCON21 Western Regional Conference Summary

 

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JAILCON21 Western Regional Conference Summary

NIJO is pleased to report the success of another JAILCON21 Western Regional Conference at the Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona, June 29-July 1, 2021. We express gratitude to the Arizona Sheriffs’ Association for co-hosting the conference and to our host agencies, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community Corrections Department.

Just like every year before, the conference sold out having over 400 corrections professions from several western states including Arizona, California, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico in attendance.

DAY 1 – June 29, 2021

The Opening Session of the conference began with a flag ceremonyOpening Session - JAILCON21 Western Regional Conference conducted by the Honor Guard from the Pinal County Sheriffs’ Office.  A beautiful rendition of the national anthem was performed by Deputy Leonard Miller of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.  Welcome remarks were then given by our host sheriffs, Mark Dannels (Cochise County Sheriff and President of Arizona Sheriffs’ Association) and Sheriff Penzone (Maricopa County, AZ).  Attendees were then privileged to hear from Mark Brnovich, Arizona Attorney General.  AG Brnovich expressed gratitude to attendees for the difficult jobs they perform each day in keeping inmates, staff and the public safe.

Following the opening session, individuals attended three 1.5 hour break-out training sessions with the option of five topics during every session.  Training sessions were taught by top corrections experts from across the country, including: Gary DeLand (President, DeLand & Associates); Dr. Steve Sampson (Founder, Institute for Social Intelligence; Chief Deputy Mike Haley, Ph.D. (Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, LA); Sgt. David Townsend (Luna County Detention Center); Dr. Johnny Bates (CEO, Quality Correctional Health Care); Sgt. Gregory Perks (Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, AZ); Stephen Entemann (Founder, Code 4 Specialist, LLC); SAC Cheri OZ (DEA); Sean Stewart (Expert Witness/Ret. Captain, Pima County Adult Detention Center, AZ); Keith Hoskins (Central Region Administrator, NIJO and Ret. Jail Administrator, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, MO); Dr. Chris Gregg, Ph.D. (CSO, Storyline Health);  David Linderholm (Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, AZ), Lt. Elsa Navarro (Pima County Sheriff’s Office, AZ); Joshua Arnold (Director of Operations, NIJO), and Tate McCotter (Executive Director, NIJO).  Topics during the break out sessions ranged from the “Dangers of Social Media in Corrections”  to “Dealing with Difficult Employees” and the “Art of Confrontation”.  Sessions throughout the conference were targeted for all levels of corrections from sheriff and jail administrator to line level staff, including a special session just for medical professionals in corrections.

During the afternoon session, sponsors and exhibitors set up in the Exhibit Hall in preparation for the afternoon Welcome Reception.  The Welcome Reception included attendees meeting and mingling with each other as well as with vendor participants.  Attendees enjoyed the event which included hors d’oeuvres and drinks and lots of great prize drawings sponsored by our generous sponsors.

DAY 2 – June 30, 2021

Comedian Eric O'Shea performs at JAILCON21 Western Regional ConferenceWe started on the second day with an awesome Keynote Session.  First up was Comedian Eric O’Shea, who warmed up the Talking Stick Showroom with lots of laughter–which is a testimonial to his talent and humor because it isn’t easy to get a crowd laughing at eight o’clock in the morning!

Following Eric’s tremendous performance, attendees were honored to hear from Keynote Speaker  Craig Johnson.  Craig is a New York Times’ best-selling author of the Longmire mystery series, the basis for the hit Netflix series Longmire.  All attendees were enthralled with Craig’s stories as he walked them through the process of writinY best-selling author Craig Johnson speaks atNIJO's JAILCON21 Western Regional Conferenceg his novel and how it didn’t start to “click” until he started talking to his local sheriff and started doing a lot of research about the law enforcement.  All of his research made him even more grateful for the hard-working men and women in the profession.  He expressed his admiration and appreciation to attendees for all they do to protect and serve.

After the conclusion of the Keynote Session, attendees gathered in the Exhibit Hall to visit with 43 corrections-specific vendors to learn more about their products and services.  Craig Johnson and Eric O’Shea also joined us in the Exhibit Hall to sign books, meet attendees and take pictures with them. Attendees enjoyed the energy in the Exhibit Hall as well as all of the great prizes that were given away during more prize drawings.  NIJO and Arizona Sheriffs’ Association, as well as all conference attendees, express our gratitude to all of our sponsors and exhibitors for their support at JAILCON which helps provide over 30 hours of legal-based training for corrections professionals.

NIJO Express gratitude to our JAILCON21 West Sponsors

The afternoon of the second day consisted of two more 1.5 hour training sessions offerinLegal-Based Training for Detention and Corrections Professionals at JAILCONg five topics per session.  Topics during the afternoon training consisted of titles such as “Jail Ethics in a Brave New World”,  “Qualified Immunity – Under Attack from the Left”, and a 5-person Panel on the top reasons for lawsuits in jails today.  The panel consisted of NIJO Executive Director, Tate McCotter, renowned corrections expert Gary DeLand (President, DeLand & Associates) and attorneys Rachel Love (Partner, Struck Love Bojanowski & Acedo PLC), Blake Hamilton (Dentons Durham Jones Pinegar) and Daryl Audilett (Audilett Law PC).  Training sessions on the 2nd day were taught by: Gary DeLand (President, DeLand & Associates); Lt. Dino Graffious (Pima County Sheriff’s Office); Sgt. Russell Croyle ( Pima County Sheriff’s Office); Chief Deputy Mike Haley, Ph.D. (Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, LA); Dr. Johnny Bates (CEO, Quality Correctional Health Care); Sgt. Gregory Perks (Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, AZ); Sean Stewart (Expert Witness/Ret. Captain, Pima County Adult Detention Center, AZ); Keith Hoskins (Central Region Administrator, NIJO and Ret. Jail Administrator, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, MO); David Linderholm (Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, AZ), Lt. Elsa Navarro (Pima County Sheriff’s Office, AZ); Joshua Arnold (Director of Operations, NIJO), and Tate McCotter (Executive Director, NIJO).

 

Wednesday evening attendees were treated to a Hawaiian-themed corrections appreciation event at the “Aloha Pool Party” at the Talking Stick Resort’s Sunwatcher Pool Deck and Bar.  Attendees and their guests wore brightly colored Hawaiian shirts and dress and were greeted with leis upon entrance to the party.  It was a beautiful evening for a cornhole tournament, limbo and hula hoop contest and lots more prize drawings.  The highlight of the evening was an amazing Polynesian cultural performance by Tia’s Royal Islanders with hula and exciting fire dancing!  To top it all off, the Phoenix Suns advanced in the NBA finals that night which further added to the night’s success!

JAILCON21 Corrections Appreciation Event

DAY 3 – July 1, 2021

The final day of the conference started off with three 1 hour training blocks, each consisting of five session choices.  The training sessions included topics like “Crime Scene Preservation”, “Correctly Documenting a Use of Force Using the Kingsley Court Case” and “Introduction to Emotional Intelligence”.   These training sessions were taught by top corrections experts from across the country, including: Gary DeLand (President, DeLand & Associates); Chief Deputy Mike Haley, Ph.D. (Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, LA); Sgt. Gregory Perks (Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, AZ);  Sean Stewart (Expert Witness/Ret. Captain, Pima County Adult Detention Center, AZ); Keith Hoskins (Central Region Administrator, NIJO and Ret. Jail Administrator, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, MO); Lt. Elsa Navarro (Pima County Sheriff’s Office, AZ); Joshua Arnold (Director of Operations, NIJO), and Tate McCotter (Executive Director, NIJO).

A special “Medical Block” was provided at no charge on Thursday for correctional healthcare professionals.  The topics during this session included:  “Medication-Assisted Treatment and Its Impact on the Opioid Crisis” taught by Catherine Maddux, MSN, FNP-C, CCHP; and “Lessons Learned in Correctional Nursing” by Dawn Tuttle, RN.

JAILCON raises fund for 100 Club of ArizonaThroughout the event, attendees and vendors purchased raffle tickets to earn more chances to win great prizes from our sponsors. All proceeds from the raffle were then donated the 100 Club of Arizona.  NIJO, on behalf of all conference attendees, was proud to present a check for $750 to the 100 Club of Arizona at the Awards Ceremony on Thursday, July 1st.  We appreciate the 100 Club and their unwavering commitment to provide financial assistance to families of first responders who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.

 

JAILCON21 Western Region Corrections Professionals Awards

The final event for the conference was an inspiring Awards Ceremony and Luncheon where correctional professionals and agencies from the western region were recognized for their dedication and excellence in the corrections profession throughout their careers, especially during this past year.  During the Awards Ceremony, Jail Commander Don Bischoff (Mohave County Sheriff’s Office) presented the Arizona Sheriffs’ Awards and NIJO Executive Director, Tate McCotter, presented the JAILCON21 Western Region Corrections Professionals Awards.  (See article:  JAILCON21 Western Region Corrections Professionals Awards).

 

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JAILCON21 Attendee Planning Worksheets

Customize one the worksheets below to outline the sessions you will attend at JAILCON21 and to detail how these sessions will help solve any challenges you and your department or agency are looking to solve.   JAILCON21 West Planning Worksheet   JAILCON21 South Planning Worksheet   JAILCON21 Online Planning Worksheet

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