PRISONER EXPRESS

When looking for good in others, (as in a good corrections officer) we must look at this person's ability to perform his duties as a trained professional. In this case, it's not the corrections officers' job to abuse others. This is illegal as well as uncomfortable. People are sent to prison as punishment, not for punishment. It's the corrections officer, as well as his superior's responsibility to protect the health of the prisoners. When a man is taken into confinement, whether they like it or not, they have made him their collective responsibility. They are not free to do anything they want to him.

Prisoner abuse, sexual humiliation, rape and torture not only threaten the lives of those who fall prey to their aggressors, but are devastating to the human spirit. Shame, depression, and the shattering loss of self-esteem accompany the perpetual terror the victim endures. Unable to fend for himself without the protection of prison officials, the victim finds himself at the mercy of ruthless inmates and guards alike.

It is similar to the situation we are now faced with concerning the abuse of the Iraqi prisoners at Abu Ghraib. I'm compelled to wonder, who's most responsible for the acts of our US soldiers--the seven accused soldiers or their superiors in command. All seven soldiers stated that they were following orders. With the exception of two soldiers (who were trained prison guards here in the US) none were trained disciplined correctional officers. Even if they were indeed doing what they were told, is that enough to excuse their actions?

This takes us back to the topic; what makes a good corrections officer. Perhaps it's the good in humanity. Isn't it true, that we must live by example? Doing unto others, as you'd wish them to do to you. Any good human, trained properly, could make a good corrections officer.