21 Aug

Posted at 10:49h in Featured, Implement Strategically, Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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The dozen or so men sat together in the visiting area at the Utah State Correctional Center, waiting for the ceremony to begin. They carried with them, however, the accomplishments of hundreds more who didn’t get the chance to be recognized. USCF recently held its inaugural graduation for those who have completed the Sex Offense Treatment Program, commonly known as SOTP. “We have over 200 individuals who have graduated since February 2022,” said Dr. Candice Waltrip, Supervising Psychologist with the UDC’s Programming Division and Director of SOTP. “This is the first chance we have had to celebrate since being in the new prison.” Approximately 35 percent of the incarcerated individuals in Utah’s prison system are serving time for a sexual offense. The Department’s treatment program is primarily housed at the Salt Lake City facility. Such treatment is ordered by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole as a condition for parole consideration. Treatment takes approximately 17 months, depending on the individual’s identified behavioral stability, progress in treatment and overall risk level. Progress is measured not simply  by the completion of assignments or time spent in therapy. How hard an individual works, how motivated they are, and their willingness to incorporate changes freely to show commitment toward rehabilitation without exhibiting defensiveness are also considered. Which makes the recent commencement exercise at USCF so important. “It allows them to experience the real accomplishment of completing the program,” said Capt. Matt Huber, who oversaw the graduation services. “It’s an acknowledgement of the hard work they have put forth.”...

17 Aug

Posted at 10:46h in Featured, Impact Globally, Implement Strategically, Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan, Work Together
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The Utah Department of Corrections is proud to announce strategic appointments that underscore our commitment to fostering excellence and innovation within our team.  The Department is excited to introduce the following individuals to key leadership roles: Rebecca Brown - Deputy Executive Director: Bringing a wealth of experience from her tenure at the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, including her recent role as Assistant Deputy Director, Rebecca Brown joins us as Deputy Executive Director. Her involvement with a local community non-profit organization, which included significant work at the Salt Lake County Jail, demonstrates her deep commitment to our mission. Rebecca will officially assume her responsibilities on September 5, 2023. Jared Garcia - Deputy Executive Director: With over two decades of public safety service, including leadership positions within the Department of Public Safety and his most recent role as Chief of Police in Moab, Jared Garcia is appointed as Deputy Executive Director. Jared's extensive background in law enforcement positions him well to contribute to our goals. His official start date is October 1, 2023. Glen Mills - Director of Communications and Government Relations: Drawing from a distinguished career as a main news anchor, chief political correspondent, and host of Inside Utah Politics with ABC4, Glen Mills assumes the role of Director of Communications and Government Relations. His expertise in communications and public affairs, developed over more than twenty years, will play a pivotal role in advancing our department's visibility and outreach. Glen will officially begin on September 5, 2023. Eric Hutchings - Director of Legislative Affairs and Policy: With a robust legislative background, having served in the Utah State House of Representatives from 2001 to 2020, Eric Hutchings steps into the role of Director of Legislative Affairs and Policy. His extensive involvement in committees related to criminal justice and corrections positions him as a valuable asset in shaping policies that drive positive change. Eric's official start date is August 28, 2023. “These appointments mark a significant step towards our continued growth and excellence. Each individual brings unique skills and insights that will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our mission,” said UDC Executive Director, Brian Redd.  “We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jim Hudspeth and Chyleen Richey for their exemplary service as Deputy Executive Directors. We congratulate Jim on his well-earned retirement and express our appreciation for Chyleen's impactful contributions within our department and the criminal justice system. Chyleen and our leadership will engage in ongoing discussions about her evolving role within the organization.”    ...

18 Jul

Posted at 22:13h in Hot Topics, Impact Globally, Implement Strategically, Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan, Work Together
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[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19CQ0iHDUlk[/embedyt] In this interview, Lieutenant Aaron Johnson and Sergeant Ray Eberly shed some light on the concept of structured housing at the Utah State Correctional Facility. They discuss how structured housing presents a compelling alternative to traditional maximum security housing approaches, the various processes that help incarcerated individuals succeed in structured housing, and the challenges they've faced while implementing this newer housing model. Curious to find out more? You can listen to the whole interview here....

06 Jul

Posted at 21:26h in Featured, Impact Globally, Implement Strategically, Improve Lives, Invest in Staff, Latest News, Strategic Plan, Work Together
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The Utah Department of Corrections hosted Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson at the Utah State Correctional Facility on Thursday, June 29. Her visit provided valuable insights into our operations and a chance to showcase our commitment to public safety and rehabilitation. We were grateful that Lt. Gov. Henderson joined us for this visit. It underscores the importance of collaboration and partnership in achieving our shared goal of a safer and more rehabilitative justice system. Stay tuned for more updates on our initiatives and efforts to promote public safety, rehabilitation, and successful reentry. Together, we can positively impact the lives of our staff, individuals under our care, and the communities we serve. Andrew Damas, Communications Office...

26 Apr

Posted at 10:38h in Hot Topics, Implement Strategically, Improve Lives, Invest in Staff, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan, Uncategorized, Work Together
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Mosquitoes have been a concern for the Utah State Correctional Facility (USCF) in Salt Lake since July 2022, when the facility began housing incarcerated individuals. While mosquitoes and other biting insects are always a nuisance in remote wetland areas, such as the site that USCF occupies, the influx of incarcerated individuals, UDC staff, and the facility’s infrastructure have all acted as attractants for even more mosquitoes. This makes abatement efforts essential for maintaining the well-being and safety of our incarcerated population and staff. Thanks to the support of Utah’s legislators, $300,000 was approved this year in additional funds to address mosquito abatement at USCF.  UDC’s facilities team – which maintains the Department’s facilities – and the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District (SLCMAD) have stepped in to provide assistance and expertise. The district’s experience has been crucial in helping the UDC develop an effective abatement plan. Earlier this year, UDC communications specialist Liam Truchard spoke in-depth with Salt Lake City Abatement’s education specialist, Michele Rehebin, along with UDC’s Facilities Director, Shawn Anderson.  “Collaboration is the big key,” said Rehebin. “We are communicating with everybody to make sure we each know what we are supposed to be doing and how we can accomplish these different types of activities.” You can hear the full discussion on the UDC’s Youtube page here: https://youtu.be/X4n49Q9mnj0 As temperatures rise and standing water collects around the facility, the mosquito problem is expected to become more severe. One of the most important steps in the abatement process is larviciding. According to the National Institute of Health, larviciding refers to the regular application of chemical or microbial insecticides to water bodies or water containers to kill the aquatic immature forms of the mosquito (the larvae and pupae).  Training will be provided to staff, who will be carrying out the process. Larvicide will be used in storm drains throughout USCF, killing mosquito larvae before they can grow into adults. Another method in the abatement plan is the implementation of traps on facility grounds. The SLCMAD is identifying species and potential breeding sites at the facility and surrounding areas. The elimination of standing water sources like puddles, ponds, and drainages should be an effective way to reduce the source of mosquitoes. “Mosquito abatement is a critical component of public health, especially in areas with particularly large mosquito populations,” said Spencer Turley, assistant deputy executive director with UDC. “The collaboration between SLCMAD and USCF staff is an excellent example of how agencies can work together to address public health concerns. We truly value this partnership and the positive impact it will have on our facility, staff, and incarcerated population.” As the spring and summer seasons approach, mosquito abatement efforts will continue to be a priority at the USCF. With the combined efforts of the UDC and SLCMAD, officials hope that the mosquito problem will be effectively controlled, and incarcerated individuals and staff can enjoy a safe and healthy environment. After approval last year through both UDC’s medical and prison operations teams, mosquito repellant continues to be available for incarcerated individuals through commissary. [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4n49Q9mnj0[/embedyt]...

22 Mar

Posted at 12:58h in Featured, Impact Globally, Implement Strategically, Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan, Work Together
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The Utah Department of Corrections, in coordination with Davis County Sheriff’s Office, announced the expansion of opportunities for programming and reentry services to address individuals' risk factors when they return to prison for parole violations. The goal is to reduce core criminogenic risk factors for those who violate parole. Individuals who violate parole represent the largest admission group for the Utah Department of Corrections. In 2021, admissions from parole violators represented about two-thirds (67%) of all admissions to prison, while admissions from probation made up 18% of admissions. “We are excited to help these individuals be better equipped for success when they return to their communities,” said Brian Nielson, executive director with the Utah Department of Correction. “We are grateful for the collaboration with the Davis County Sheriff’s Office, and we look forward to expanding these opportunities in other areas of the state in the future.” Data shows that parole violators returning to prison on technical violations stay on average for eight months. The added programming and reentry services will address their core needs within a six month timeframe. “Oftentimes our standard programs for addressing criminogenic needs take longer than the average stay of someone returning for a parole violation,” said Lena Gustafson, the deputy programming director with the Utah Department of Corrections. “Corrections offers so much to every individual we supervise based on their assessed needs, and we’re excited to add more programming and reentry services to our repertoire to address those returning for a short stay for parole violations.” The core program that will be offered–Living in Balance–is customizable, comprehensive, and evidence-based, and takes approximately six months to complete. Customizable: Designed to be effective in both group and individual settings, it can be used in all levels of care and program types. It is designed so that clients can enter the program at any point in the cycle of sessions. Comprehensive: There are 47 sessions, each covering one specific topic. Clients are taught information about treatment and recovery, skills to handle feelings and emotions, information about preventing relapse, practical living skills, and how to manage distorted thinking and behaviors. Evidence-based: Developed by Danya International and tested as part of a NIDA-funded project, Living in Balance is a clinically validated, evidence-based program that has been proven to retain clients in treatment and reduce alcohol and other drug use. Davis Behavioral Health, which contracts with the Davis County Sheriff’s Office, will help to administer the support and classes specializing in mental health and peer support resources. "We're excited to partner with the Department of Corrections in this very important endeavor,” said Chief Arnold Butcher with Davis County Sheriff’s Office. “We believe this is a great opportunity to enhance the programs already offered at our facility. The Living in Balance curriculum will enhance safety throughout our community as we can work with parole offenders much sooner.” Other services provided will specifically address reentry needs, such as navigating parole, improving financial literacy, enhancing their work portfolio, resume, interviewing skills, and partnering with the Department of Workforce Services and Vocational Rehabilitation Services for other relevant needs....

01 Mar

Posted at 14:03h in Implement Strategically, Improve Lives, Invest in Staff, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWuT7dvIz-U[/embedyt] The Utah Department of Corrections (UDC) provided an update today regarding an in-depth, ongoing review of safety and security at the Utah State Correctional Facility (USCF) in Salt Lake City. UDC noted several areas where improvements have already been made, and outlined short-term and long-term goals to ensure safety and security. “The safety of our staff and those we supervise is paramount,” said Brian Nielson, executive director with the Utah Department of Corrections. “We will continue to closely review our operations, ensure process improvements, and be diligent in our efforts to accomplish our Department’s mission. I cannot express in words how passionate, dedicated, and talented our team is in ensuring the safety of our operations and helping individuals find success.” The Department continues to review all areas of USCF. Short-term goals include improving facility infrastructure and security devices, increasing training, focusing on staff wellness, expanding programming, and focusing on gang interventions. Long-term goals include training and certifying staff in security audit practices. The Department will also work to identify clear incident reduction tracking mechanisms. And finally, we will continue to emphasize recruitment in order to eliminate mandatory overtime. Immediate areas of note include enhancements to the Antelope Facility, which is a restricted housing facility at USCF. Areas of improvement within this facility include addressing any blind spots, hiring additional control point operators, and identifying areas for improved communications....