18 Jul

Posted at 13:55h in Featured, Invest in Staff, Latest News, Strategic Plan, Uncategorized
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As National Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week approaches, the Utah Department of Corrections (UDC) gears up to host a series of events designed to highlight the crucial work of our dedicated Adult Probation and Parole (AP&P) agents. From July 17th to the 21st, legislators and local media will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the reentry and supervision processes that help reintegrate individuals into society and ensure public safety. Throughout National Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week, the UDC wants to recognize and celebrate the hard work and unwavering dedication of its AP&P agents. These professionals promote rehabilitation, reduce recidivism, and safeguard communities. Their commitment to serving and assisting individuals navigating the challenging path to reintegration is paramount in fostering a safer and more inclusive society. The UDC encourages legislators, media representatives, and the public to participate in these events, providing a valuable opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of reentry and supervision processes. By engaging with these events, attendees will witness the transformative power of dedicated individuals working towards creating a brighter future for those seeking to rebuild their lives....

18 Jul

Posted at 07:49h in Featured, Hot Topics, Improve Lives, Invest in Staff, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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As the mosquito season hits full power, the Utah Department of Corrections is taking additional steps to help staff and incarcerated individuals avoid the annoying insects at the Utah State Correctional Facility. UDC is rolling out a lotion-based repellent that will be available at no cost to staff and incarcerated offenders at USCF. The product being used was recommended by the Salt Lake Mosquito Abatement District.   Every incarcerated individual will have access to the repellent, but the method in which they use the lotion depends on their housing location. Some will have it available during times when movement is permitted in their sections. Others will have open access monitored by correctional staff. Those in restricted units will be offered the lotion as they are escorted to recreation yards. “We take the concerns about mosquitos seriously and are working to alleviate as many concerns as possible,” said Spencer Turley, an Assistant Deputy Executive Director at the UDC. “We are grateful for the funding and support from the Governor's Office and the Legislature that allowed us to offer this repellent to all incarcerated individuals and staff for free. We are also thankful for the ongoing support and partnership with the Salt Lake Mosquito Abatement District.”   In addition, Utah Correctional Industries is in the process of designing and creating secure dispensers for the lotion. This will allow greater access to the repellent.  Individuals may still purchase their own repellent via commissary, and use the lotion as needed.    Thanks to support in the Utah State Legislature, the UDC has partnered with SLCMAD for a multi-pronged mitigation effort. The plan includes aerial spraying, insecticide applications, traps and other preventative measures. You can learn about other efforts the UDC has been working on with the abatement district on our website. You can also hear about mosquito abatement at USCF in our Conversations With Corrections podcast featuring abatement district officials. More information for roll out and utilization of the repellant will be forthcoming.   ...

17 Jul

Posted at 12:41h in Featured, Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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On Monday, July 3rd, the Bear Highside Housing Unit at the Utah Department of Corrections (UDC) was buzzing with energy and creativity as incarcerated individuals showcased their remarkable talents in a captivating talent show. Organized by James Featherstone in collaboration with Family Home Evening and the UDC, this event was a testament to the power of art and the rehabilitation journey. The impressive lineup featured a diverse array of performers, including Mike Robinson, Anthony Kish, Sterling Allan, Albert Givens, Jeff Meyer, Daniel Senior, Jeff Finlayson, Brad Freeze, Alex Perkins, Roger Rynhart, Mike Strickland, Joel-Lehi Organista, Charles Sargent, Ron Kelly, Desean Goins, Brett Hancock, Brandon Sappington, Justin Brinkerhoff, Jessie Mirelez, James Featherstone, and Chaplain David Bokovoy. Their captivating acts spanned various genres, ranging from soulful musical performances to heartfelt poetry readings. In addition to the live performances, individuals from the Bear Highside Housing Unit who didn't take the stage contributed their artistic talents by crafting unique items such as stuffed animals, hats, and other art pieces. These creations were thoughtfully displayed just outside the chapel where the event occurred, adding an extra touch of creativity to the atmosphere. Ensuring that everyone had the opportunity to enjoy the show, a live stream of the event was broadcasted by the UDC on tablets for those in higher security housing units who couldn't attend in person. Furthermore, a recording will be available to all incarcerated individuals via their tablets. The recorded performance will also be shared on YouTube, enabling friends and family members of the participants to share in the joy and celebrate the talents of their loved ones. James Featherstone, who served as the host and emcee, delivered an outstanding performance, keeping the audience engaged and creating an enjoyable atmosphere. Support services were provided by Paul Kimbal, contributing to the seamless execution of the talent show. The success of this event would not have been possible without the dedication and efforts of Lt. Dunford and Chaplain Bokovoy, who played instrumental roles in bringing the event to life. Special recognition goes to the LDS Bear River Branch Volunteers, whose hard work behind the scenes truly made a difference and helped create a memorable experience for everyone involved. The Bear Highside Housing Unit talent show not only entertained and uplifted the spirits of the incarcerated individuals but also demonstrated the transformative power of art and the positive impact it can have on the rehabilitation process. It served as a testament to the remarkable talent and resilience of those we supervise.   Alec Langton...

06 Jul

Posted at 21:30h in Featured, Impact Globally, Improve Lives, Latest News, Strategic Plan, Work Together
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The first high school graduation ceremony since 2020 was held recently at the Central Utah Correctional Facility in Gunnison. Officials from the Central Utah Academy celebrated not only the 29 graduates from the Class of 2023, but also took the time to highlight the 14 graduates from 2021 and the 16 from 2022. The pandemic caused challenges, officials noted, but students overcame them to be where they were today – wearing graduation regalia and accepting diplomas. “This is a testament to your fortitude,” said Ralph Squire, Superintendent of the South Sanpete School District, which operates Central Utah Academy. During his speech, Guy Gabaldon, 49, challenged his fellow graduates to “never stop learning.” “This is just the beginning to a new chapter in our lives,” he added. “Good luck to you all.” Anthony Blauer, a counselor at the academy, read the graduates a poem about wreckers and builders, stating that he saw those gathered this day were the latter. “You guys have all shown to me that you’re a builder,” he said. “You’re building your own lives.” The Utah Department of Corrections operates CUCF and the Utah State Correctional Facility in Salt Lake City. In addition to high school courses, both facilities offer technical and college courses to incarcerated individuals. CUCF houses up to 1,800 male inmates. We want to thank all UDC staff for encouraging incarcerated individuals and providing the means for them to pursue education while under our supervision. We also want to extend a thank you to our legislators. Your continued support makes these programs possible.   Liam Truchard, Communications Specialist...

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...

06 Jul

Posted at 21:24h in Featured, Invest in Staff, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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The Utah Department of Corrections Training Academy continues to prepare new officers and deputies for careers in corrections. The latest to join the ranks include 46 cadets who graduated recently from Pre Service Academy 335. Those earning awards in the class include Joshua Ludlow (Physical Fitness), Michael Burnett (Professionalism), and Kody Woffinden (Academic). Joshua Ludlow was also named Outstanding Trainee achieving the highest academic and physical fitness scores. The new cadets also heard from keynote speaker, Assistant Deputy Executive Director of the UDC, Maria Shirey. The class motto was "Memento Mori!" Congratulations to all. Andrew Damas, Communications Office...

06 Jul

Posted at 21:22h in Featured, Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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Chalk on a walkway in a Utah neighborhood? Pretty common. Chalk on a walkway . . . in a Utah prison? OK, that’s new. Women in the Elevate program at the Utah State Correctional Facility spent a part of Tuesday, June 26, drawing on the concrete between the Dell and Emerald housing units, which comprise the majority of the women’s facilities at USCF. Elevate is the residential substance use program for women at the site. The Chalk the Walk activity saw the women create original artworks or replicate drawings they brought with them. The explosion of brightly-colored chalk designs quickly took over the roughly 100-yard thoroughfare. “I think it’s great,” said Leslie Crafts, her right hand dusted with the neon pink Crayola chalk she was applying. “It kinda gives us a little bit of freedom and it’s a lot of fun.”   The project was designed as a therapeutic approach to promote community bonding and pro-social behavior, noted Kim Zundel, a case specialist with the Elevate program. It’s the first time the event has been tried at USCF, which opened in July 2022. “Even the ones that are pretty quiet are coming out of their shell and interacting with their peers,” said Zundel. “That’s pretty good.” Interaction was evident, as the amateur artists shared laughs and exchanged colored chalk back and forth. All the while, the turtles, landscapes and inspirational messages became real on the path. “It’s working with each other and it shows creativity,” said Brittany Karczewski as she carefully outlined a unicorn she said was for her daughter. “It’s just a chance to have some sober fun. Some of us haven’t had that before.”   Liam Truchard, Communications Specialist...

16 Jun

Posted at 22:29h in Featured, Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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It was a graduation ceremony three years in the making. Literally. The first high school graduation ceremony since 2020 was held recently at the Central Utah Correctional Facility in Gunnison. Officials from the Central Utah Academy celebrated not only the 29 graduates from the Class of 2023, but also took the time to highlight the 14 graduates from 2021 and the 16 from 2022. The pandemic caused challenges, officials noted, but students overcame them to be where they were today – wearing graduation regalia and accepting diplomas. “This is a testament to your fortitude,” said Ralph Squire, Superintendent of the South Sanpete School District, which operates Central Utah Academy. During his speech, Guy Gabaldon, 49, challenged his fellow graduates to “never stop learning.” “This is just the beginning to a new chapter in our lives,” he added. “Good luck to you all.” Anthony Blauer, a counselor at the academy, read the graduates a poem about wreckers and builders, stating that he saw those gathered this day were the latter. “You guys have all shown to me that you’re a builder,” he said. “You’re building your own lives.” The Utah Department of Corrections operates CUCF and the Utah State Correctional Facility in Salt Lake City. In addition to high school courses, both facilities offer technical and college courses to incarcerated individuals. CUCF houses up to 1,800 male inmates. We want to thank all UDC staff for encouraging incarcerated individuals and providing the means for them to pursue education while under our supervision. Without your help, we would be unable to offer these opportunities....

12 Jun

Posted at 15:11h in Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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A dozen students—under the supervision of the Utah Department of Corrections but housed in the Duchesne County Jail as part of the Inmate Placement Program—graduated from the Building Trades program offered through Uintah Basin Technical College (UBTech) on May 17.  The 14-week program, a staple at the county jail for 30 years, provides the opportunity for individuals housed there to build affordable housing for the surrounding community while learning and receiving certification for skills such as framing, electrical work, plumbing and woodworking. Graduates recently completed the first house built through the program since the program was suspended due to COVID-19. Opening remarks were made by Captain Jeremy Curry of Duchesne County Jail, Tim Miller and Kenneth Pugh of UBTech, and focused on looking forward toward the future by utilizing and further developing skills learned throughout the program, with Pugh referencing the book “Be Your Future Self Now” by Dr. Benjamin Hardy. After the graduates walked across the staging area to receive their certificates, Aaron K. Weights, President of UBTech, made closing remarks to encourage graduates to continue building upon the trust they earned by remembering three words he believes can take one far: Trustworthy, Kindness, Reverence.  Weights ended with a poem to remind graduates that limitations can be self-imposed.   “You can do anything you think you can, and you’ll never accomplish more, but if you’re afraid to try, there is little for you in store,  for failure comes from the inside first, it’s there if you only knew it,  but you can win though you face the worst, if you believe you can do it!”   One graduate utilized his woodworking skills to build his mother a jewelry box while still incarcerated. Others are looking forward to release dates and view the Building Trades program as a “stepping stone back into the community.”  Braxton Smith paroled six days after graduation. He plans to get a job using skills he learned in the program. He also plans to attend a culinary arts program. Smith stated it “felt really good to be trusted again after being a prisoner and being stigmatized for so long.” Another graduate plans to start his own business building sheds and cabinets. Technical skills aren’t the only ones learned through the program, however. Miller with UBTech notes that it helps build confidence and self-esteem in those who participate, which he thinks can be “more beneficial than learning residential construction” for those incarcerated. This sentiment is echoed by Pugh, an instructor with the program, who states that “a lot of these guys, all they need is an opportunity and greater self-esteem.”   Jade Watkin, Communications Office...

12 Jun

Posted at 14:01h in Improve Lives, Latest News, News Archives, Strategic Plan
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Family and friends gathered Friday at the Garfield County Jail to recognize incarcerated individuals who graduated from high school, treatment programs and technical colleges this year. The graduates are under the supervision of the Utah Department of Corrections (UDC), and are housed in the Garfield County Jail as part of UDC’s Inmate Placement Program.  Six students received their high school diplomas while 15 others earned certificates in graphic design, foreign language and computers. Five completed Dare to Soar, a substance abuse treatment program. The graduates are assigned to Garfield County Jail as part of the Inmate Placement Program (IPP), which manages the contracts between UDC and jails statewide. “We are proud of the hard work of all the offenders who graduated and of the programming staff for their time and commitment,” said Randall Honey, Director of IPP.  Approximately 25 percent of those in state custody are housed in county facilities across Utah. While in a contracted county jail,  incarcerated individuals are able to participate in programming and educational opportunities  as they would in a state correctional facility. Garfield County’s graduation ceremony – held outdoors and abbreviated by thunderstorms moving into the area – was one of many taking place at county facilities across Utah. “The relationship between the Sheriffs Association and the Utah Department of Corrections is extremely important and vital to the success of the offenders,” added Honey. “The county jails provide a variety of programs, classes, and work opportunities that the offenders can utilize for their progress.”  Congratulations to all.   Liam Truchard, Communications Office...