2 October
Three staff from Otago Corrections Facility received Special Commendation Awards today acknowledging their professionalism and courage on the job.
Corrections Chief Executive Barry Matthews says Unit Manager Lane Groen and Corrections Officers Stewart Dunlop and Andrew Hackett all showed incredible selflessness when diffusing a potentially serious incident at the prison in March this year.
“I must congratulate Lane, Stewart and Andrew for displaying such acts of distinction. "All three staff members immediately put the safety and security of the prison ahead of their own personal wellbeing.
“During this particular incident gang tensions flared in one unit and it was because of the quick actions and professionalism shown by these men that the situation was brought under control before it developed into something a lot more serious.
“While we strive to achieve a gang neutral environment, it is a stark reality of prison life that this is not always the case. "Our staff are trained to deal with challenging situations like this so it is heartening to see that these three men used that training to good effect.”
Mr Matthews says Lane, Stewart and Andrew placed themselves between the two armed assailants and their target, managing to secure him in a cell while keeping the attackers at bay.
“All three men went well beyond the call of duty to ensure the safe containment of the prisoners in the unit and security of the prison and in doing so put them at considerable risk of injury. "They clearly demonstrated the attributes that we expect and want in our staff.
“The actions these staff members took to separate the assailants, prevent serious injury and at the same maintain the good order of the unit during unlock with prisoners of mixed loyalties is worthy of recognition and admiration.
“Lane, Stewart and Andrew have certainly earned my respect for meeting that challenge the way they did.”
It is the Department’s mission to improve public safety and to reduce re-offending. The Chief Executive’s Special Commendation Awards have been recently initiated to recognise times when Corrections staff display exceptional behaviour.
ENDS
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