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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 JAILCON22 Southern Regional Conference on Thursday, August 18th, 2022, at the Huntsville Marriott at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, AL.
NIJO Executive Director, Tate McCotter, presented awards to the recipients of the JAILCON22 Southern Region Corrections Professionals Awards. McCotter also recognized agencies and individuals who had earned NIJO National Accreditation and Professional Certification.
NIJO wishes to extend our congratulations to the following award recipients.
CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Bailey Hennen
Addiction Treatment Coordinator, Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (KS)
Bailey Hennen is an Addiction Treatment coordinator for Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas. She is based at the Crawford County Sheriff's Office and serves as our liaison in offering addiction treatment and counseling services to all inmates incarcerated at our facility. Bailey has shown care and compassion for inmates struggling with addiction and has gone above and beyond to help them inside jail and also help them once they get released. She has arranged for treatment, housing, and transportation for inmates once they are released. She takes her position personally and gives them hope for their future.
Bailey Hennen has been a very positive influence since the first day she came here. She has shown great compassion for her role in assisting inmates with their recovery journey. She has been able to allocate resources to further help the inmates. She also has managed programs for inmates and group sessions to help them stay motivated to recover. "I believe her passion is why this program is a success. She comes to work every day with a great attitude and positive outlook and we are lucky to have her on our team."
HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Brandy Cannon
Shelby County Sheriff's Office, AL
Brandy demonstrates dedication and commitment to her employer and patients. Her professionalism and passion and exhibited daily. The COVID pandemic created an overwhelming number of challenges for medical professionals worldwide and Brandy let her team while mitigating outbreaks in the jail. She successfully navigated complex protocols and is currently working on a grant for resources for jails across Alabama for the detection of COVID-19.
Amid the national staffing shortage, Brandy has improvised and worked with her team to provide leadership, encouragement and guidance. Brandy also has a passion for teaching others. She recently visited a local high school to educate them on what it means to be a correctional nurse. Creating and establishing relationships for herself and the facility is her mindset and what sets her apart form others.
From her Chief Operations Officer, “There are unique challenges that come with working in a correctional medical unit. Brandy sets a high standard level of care for her staff and team. She is the “go to” person anytime anything arises for jail medical”. From her Jail Administrator, “The most remarkable thing about her ability to be available to the medical needs of the jail while she is at home is the fact Brandy is the mom to five beautiful children, two of which are twin boys less than two-years old. Somehow through the chaos, Brandy finds a way to strike a perfect balance between being in the image of a Florence Nightingale and the Brady Bunch’s Carol Brady”
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Officer Citlalli Suarez
Tarrant County Sheriff's Office, TX
Officer Citlalli Suarez started her career with the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office in Texas on October 25, 2021. Only three months after starting her career, she faced one of the most horrifying events a detention officer may face – a vicious attack by an inmate. On January 30, 2022, while working 3rd shift Officer Suarez was conducting a routine observation check of the housing unit she was assigned to. While passing by one of the cells, an inmate who was being held on a violent sex offense managed to bypass the lock and attacked Officer Suarez. He grabbed Officer Suarez, pulled her into his cell and began to choke her and made threats to sexually assault her. Officer Suarez attempted to deploy pepper spray, but the inmate wrestled it away from her.
Officer Suarez knew the fight for her life was on and never gave up. She resorted to her training and survival instinct and fought past the inmate, who was blocking the door, and managed to make her way out. Officer Suarez was pursued by the inmate and she was able to remain calm enough to call for help via her radio and seek safety.
Officer Suarez is only 21 years old. She has a warrior's spirit and, despite being small in stature, is a force to be reckoned with.
DETENTION OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Officer Melvin Cameron
Coweta County Sheriff's Office, KS
Detention Officer Melvin Cameron has been an exemplary employee for the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office since he was hired in 2010. Melvin works tirelessly with our Security Threat Group Unit which works to identify gang members and other threat groups within the jail population. He stays one step ahead of threats between inmates and is quick to take action to ensure no threat may come to fruition.
Recently, while observing a jail nurse who was suspected of smuggling contraband into the Coweta County Jail, Officer Cameron spotted a transaction between the nurse and an inmate on surveillance cameras. This particular transaction was not an easy one to spot, but thanks to DO Cameron’s awareness, the nurse was arrested and has been charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and crossing guard lines with contraband. There are additional charges pending as this is an ongoing investigation.
Thanks to Officer Cameron’s watchful eye, the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office was able to get many dangerous drugs out of our jail, as well as one handmade shank.
DETENTION OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Officer Katie Dillon
Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, LA
Katie Dillon has been employed as a corrections officer with the Washington Parish, Louisiana, Sheriff’s Office since October 2017. She is a “no nonsense” and “by the book” officer who has the respect and trust of her fellow officers. She demonstrates integrity in all aspects of her job and is a positive influence for inmates. Katie currently serves as Shift Commander.
One inmate spoke of Katie’s forthright demeanor. “If you don’t want to hear the truth, don’t ask her a question. Whatever you do, don’t lie to her. She has a way of making a Marine drill sergeant look like a paper doll. She can cut you to ribbons without putting a hand on you or raising her voice. She is a good lady and a good officer.” A fellow officer made this comment. “When Katie speaks, everybody listens. She runs this place and is quick to straighten us out if we are not doing the right thing.”
Prior to her service with the Sheriff’s Office, Katie worked more than ten years as a corrections officer at Rayburn Correctional Center, a nearby state prison. While at Rayburn, she was recognized as a Distinguished Officer in 2012 and received the Officer of the Decade award. She could run a death row unit blindfolded!
DETENTION SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
Lt. Sylvester Bryant
Marengo County Sheriff's Office, AL
Sylvester Bryant of Marengo County Sheriff’s Office, AL. Lt. Bryant has been with the Sheriff's Office for 17years. He assists in training all the new employees and he is a "Good" leader who displays professionalism and is a man of integrity. Whenever anybody needs something done, even the Sheriff, they call on Lieutenant Bryant. The Sheriff often tells people Lt. Bryant knows how to do everything and has all kind of tools.
Lt. Bryant holds his subordinates accountable by enforcing the rules of the department. Whenever something needs to be done or fixed, he doesn’t say anything or wait on anyone one else to do it, he simply takes care of it - even if it means using his own money to purchase the material for the job. He has the ability to work with and assist in EVERY aspect of the daily operations in the jail. Lt. Bryant is always on time and hardly ever takes off work. He ensures that the inmates are in line and get all the help that they need. He displays a positive attitude at all times and he is a great asset to this department.
DETENTION ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
Captain Tammy Waddell
Limestone County Sheriff's Office, AL
Captain Waddell inspires her Corrections Officers on a daily basis to strive for excellence through providing guidance and opportunities for them to further their knowledge. Under her leadership, 100% of the Limestone County Corrections Officers have become Nationally Certified Corrections Officers, through the National Institute of Jail Operations.
Captain Waddell has served the citizens of Limestone County for 24 years. She has been an exemplary leader in every aspect of her career with the Sheriff’s Office, not only behind the walls, but in the community. Captain Waddell has volunteered her time, for many years, as part of the leadership team with the Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo, a 5013c, that organizes the Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo. This year, the Rodeo celebrated its 40th Anniversary. This award-winning community event brings one of the largest tourist attractions to Limestone County, with all proceeds benefiting the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office.
From her Lieutenant - “I have worked directly under Captain Waddell's leadership for the last 6 years, and I can honestly say that it has taught me to always lead by example and made me a stronger leader.”
DETENTION FACILITY INNOVATION AWARD
Flagler County Sheriff's Office, FL
Within the past year, the facility has significantly improved inmate services in an effort to improve inmate outcomes and improve the community. Through a partnership with Flagler Technical College, the facility has implemented the Homeward Bound Initiative. This is a program that currently offers two certificate course offerings to provide job skills training and a resulting certificate issued through the Florida Dept. of Education. Vinyl Graphics Application and HVAC Pre-Apprenticeship courses have already started with four graduates to date. The Vinyl Graphics Application course provides skills training on the printing, cutting and application of vinyl graphic designs onto vehicles. The inmates apply all marked agency vehicle graphics as part of their training. To date, they have experience applying agency graphics with multiple patrol vehicle models, trailers, motorcycles, boats, ATV's, Bearcat and Mobile Specialty Command vehicles. The HVAC Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides classroom as well as hands on training in FTC's technology lab for a career in HVAC. In addition to the Homeward Bound Initiative, the S.M.A.R.T. Inmate Program (Successful Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Treatment) was implemented in the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. The program is an evidence based in-custody treatment program in collaboration with EPIC Behavioral Healthcare to help local inmates succeed once they are released back into the community. S.M.A.R.T. uses evidence-based therapy curriculums and offers daily structured sessions led by an Intervention Specialist and Certified Peer Support Specialists to keep their focus on improving themselves and helping each other during their incarceration. S.M.A.R.T. will help participating clients gain knowledge of their disorders to help them identify triggers and build a recovery plan for post release. The goal is to treat and prevent repeat actions which could once again cost them their freedom or even their life. The last critical aspect of S.M.A.R.T. involves the transition from jail back to the community. The clients will participate for up to twelve weeks in-patient in the Flagler County Jail with sixteen weeks of out-patient follow up upon release.
COMMITMENT TO TRAINING AWARD
Limestone County Sheriff's Office, AL
The Limestone County Detention Facility accomplished their goal to have all Corrections Officers certified through the NIJO National Corrections Professional Certification program this fiscal year. Currently, they have 7 with designation of NCCE (which requires 115 hours of training) and 47 with NCCO (which requires 40 hours of training). This has been a great accomplishment, not to mention the knowledge acquired during this endeavor. When asked about the reason for this goal, Jail Administrator Waddell said, “Corrections is an honorable profession, and these men and women should receive training with one goal in mind – to be the best. The State of Alabama does not have a training standard for County Corrections Officers; however, we believe in being held to a higher standard than required.” About her staff, Jail Administrator said, “They are by far some of the most talented corrections officers in the State of Alabama. I am proud to be the administrator of such an amazing group of individuals. As the quote says, "a good person or idea cannot go unnoticed for long, just as cream poured in coffee eventually rises to the top". Limestone County has been blessed to find such great officers to work behind the bars of our facility. It would be an honor to have our officers recognized for the hard work and dedication they put into their certification.”
DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE AWARD
Paul Monk
St. Clair County Sheriff's Office, AL
Paul Monk cares about his employees, he is uplifting and encouraging and gives credit where it is due. Unlike many administrators, Monk takes time with employees to show his appreciation for the thankless job his officers do. The last two years have been very difficult for the facility and he continues to work beside his staff and drive them through the difficult time. During his administration he has seen COVID, a jail closure, a county wide cyber attack, and construction for a new jail. His dedication has never waivered and his integrity has remained intact.
From his captain “I have been at this facility for seventeen years. During my career I have been through 4 jail administrators and two sheriffs. During this administration, I have seen great strides and much needed changes being made. Most of these accomplishments are credited to Paul Monk. He retires in May of 2023 and I want to show our gratitude to him for the job he does. He has been such a beacon for us and we all want him to know we appreciate everything he has done for us.”
DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE AWARD
Jerry Arinder
Hinds County Sheriff's Office, AL
Corporal Jerry Arinder's education, training and experience allows him to demonstrate competence in each of the three positions (Evidence/Supply Manager and IT Technician) he works daily. He has years of experience in many different departments (Patrol, Detention and Operations) which includes managing overall productivity processing operation; identifying priorities, staffing needs, schedule changes, processes and procedures to meet operational needs. He has obtained numerous years experience in estimating cost, time and materials. His knowledge of operations management which includes planning, directing, coordinating, controlling and evaluating operations typically through subordinate supervisors has been long mastered. His acquired qualifications has made him a huge asset to our department and agency.
Jerry Arinder is an integral part of the Hind's Sheriff's Office "team". He is a consummate professional in all of his operations duties and goes beyond all expectations to support the team, citizens and the mission. HINDS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE has three detention facilities, and Jerry is there to plan and coordinate how to fulfill the needs that are presented by a host of staff members at each facility. He ensures the technology is working and manages the feedback and results as well. This is one part of his many job descriptions, but he offers to help wherever he finds a need. In addition, our agency has undergone many organizational changes over the past few years; Jerry still maintains his tenacity when performing his job duties in all three positions. Jerry continues the task to help facilitate improvement in overall culture and mood daily whereverhe goes. From team meetings to remembering birthdays and good or bad news for individuals, to working with the staff at the facilities he often paint our dull gray walls to bright, fun colors with his positivity – he has taken the lead and the payoff is endless. His years of knowledge allows him to know exactly who to deal with and his positive personality ensures we get what we need! In terms of suppliers – there are always new suppliers cold calling and current suppliers with concerns or simply wanting to check in. In short – Jerry Arinder goes above and beyond in everything he does for the Hinds County Sheriff's Office without ever complaining.
DISTINGUISHED VALOR AWARD
Matt Cooper
Marshall County Sheriff's Office, AL
(Received by Matt's wife, Duree Cooper)
Corporal Jerry Arinder's education, training and experience allows him to demonstrate competence in each of the three positions (Evidence/Supply Manager and IT Technician) he works daily. He has years of experience in many different departments (Patrol, Detention and Operations) which includes managing overall productivity processing operation; identifying priorities, staffing needs, schedule changes, processes and procedures to meet operational needs. He has obtained numerous years experience in estimating cost, time and materials. His knowledge of operations management which includes planning, directing, coordinating, controlling and evaluating operations typically through subordinate supervisors has been long mastered. His acquired qualifications has made him a huge asset to our department and agency.
Jerry Arinder is an integral part of the Hind's Sheriff's Office "team". He is a consummate professional in all of his operations duties and goes beyond all expectations to support the team, citizens and the mission. HINDS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE has three detention facilities, and Jerry is there to plan and coordinate how to fulfill the needs that are presented by a host of staff members at each facility. He ensures the technology is working and manages the feedback and results as well. This is one part of his many job descriptions, but he offers to help wherever he finds a need. In addition, our agency has undergone many organizational changes over the past few years; Jerry still maintains his tenacity when performing his job duties in all three positions. Jerry continues the task to help facilitate improvement in overall culture and mood daily whereverhe goes. From team meetings to remembering birthdays and good or bad news for individuals, to working with the staff at the facilities he often paint our dull gray walls to bright, fun colors with his positivity – he has taken the lead and the payoff is endless. His years of knowledge allows him to know exactly who to deal with and his positive personality ensures we get what we need! In terms of suppliers – there are always new suppliers cold calling and current suppliers with concerns or simply wanting to check in. In short – Jerry Arinder goes above and beyond in everything he does for the Hinds County Sheriff's Office without ever complaining.
The NIJO Executive Director's Award recognizes extraordinary service to the detention and corrections field by an individual based on leadership, knowledge and contributions to the corrections profession.
Deeann Cash
Jail Commander, Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, GA
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:
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Roy Brooks, Limestone County, AL
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Lt. Matthew P. Hayes, Limestone County, AL
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Sascha Krumnow, Liberty County, GA
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Adam Riddle, Marshall County, AL
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Lt. Candice L. Thomas, Chambers County, AL
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Captain Cassie Tomczek, Chambers County, AL
National Certified Corrections Supervisor (NCCS) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:
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Barry Cooper, Jr. , Washington Parish, LA
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Lt. Jessica Daves, Forsyth County, GA
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Zackery Mawyer, Marshall County, AL
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Corporal William Mouret, Forsyth County, GA
National Certified Corrections Officer (NCCO) Certification was awarded to the following individuals:
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D.S. 1 Cristina Aaliya Alvarez, Forsyth County, GA
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Corporal Samuel David Beckham, Limestone County, AL
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William K. Chandler, Limestone County, AL
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DFC Coseim Edwards, Forsyth County, GA
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Deputy Shawntae Ferguson-Holland, Forsyth County, GA
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Joshua Hardy, Calhoun County, AL
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Rolan Hipolito, Limestone County, AL
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Lisa Kellum, Limestone County, AL
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Heath Norwood, Limestone County, AL
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Shelley Posey, Limestone County, AL
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Connie Powers, Limestone County, AL
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Skyler Smith, Calhoun County, AL
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Erica Stewart, Chambers County, AL
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Deputy Pamela Vash, Forsyth County, GA
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.Baldwin County, AL
Baldwin was one of the first to become accredited with NIJO in the state of Alabama in 2017. Since then, Baldwin has maintained their accreditation and just finished their Year 2 of their second cycle for their Level 1 accreditation.
Harrison County, MS
Harrison County is the 1st county in the state of Mississippi to receive NIJO Accreditation. In November 2021, Harrison received their first onsite and through the almost singlehandedly hard work of then Sergeant, now Lieutenant, Amanda Woodcock, the facility received a Level 1 accreditation.
Forsyth County, GA
Word must be spreading because Forsyth County is also the first to receive accreditation in their state of Georgia. Recently their onsite inspection was completed, and it was a no brainer to the inspectors that this facility was one of the best of its kind. Receiving a Level 1 accreditation, Forsyth was a facility that our inspectors touted, “One of the best facilities we have ever seen”.
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