Ag Prisons Commissioner: Don’t take stupid talk

Acting Commissioner of Prisons William Alexander is urging his staff not to get carried away with, what he described as, “stupid advice” and to report to work as expected this morning. There were reports of a significant staff shortage at prisons nationwide yesterday after a voice note “predicting” high absenteeism in light of increased attacks against prison officers, was circulated.

Newsday spoke to Alexander who said, while he understands the seriousness of such attacks and the concerns expressed by the Prison Officers Association, he believes such action could do more harm than good.

“I understand and I feel the pain of the officers right now, having lost a comrade of theirs. But rather than stay away from our duties, we need to unite and present a strong front. Rather than stay away where we are vulnerable, we need to be responsible.”

While he was unable to say how many prison officers were absent from work yesterday, Alexander said the shortage did affect the daily operations of the prisons and urged officers to take their duties seriously.

“My focus is on the safety of the prison officers and the effective management of the prisons.

I always seek to provide a safe environment for my officers, so I would advise the officers to not get carried away with stupid advice.”

Newsday also spoke to Ceron Richards, president of the association, who confirmed he received reports of absenteeism but could not say exactly how many officers did not show up for work. He said while he did not encourage the sick-out, officers had a right to express their dissatisfaction over the spate of killings.

“It would be very insensitive and uncalled-for if management chooses to penalise officers who stayed away from work. At the end of the day, these officers have their families to think about.

We need to be mindful that they – including female officers – are bombarded with threats from inmates and their associates on the outside,” Richards said.