Such a Small Thing

There is a story that happens frequently where a female officer is sexually harassed by inmates. Some women get so tired of it that they eventually look for another line of work. The ones who stick it out and make a career out of corrections learn quickly how to deal with these ill-mannered obnoxious inmates.

Often, the female correctional officer will pull the inmate aside and read him the riot act. They are stern, forceful, and will let the inmate know in no uncertain terms that his behavior is unacceptable. The inmate will be threatened with punishment that is backed fully by our Policy and the department, as it should be. Often, a rule violation is handed out to the inmate if he does not respond favorably to counseling.

Sometimes the threat of being punished just isn't enough. Many of these inmates are looking at being put away for a very long time and the least of their worries is a rule violation. However, here enters the other type of correctional officer who is just as skilled, maybe more, in dealing with these situations. That is the brash, no nonsense, in-your-face lady like Goldie.

Goldie wasn't always one to follow all the guidelines set forth for officer conduct and professionalism. But, she was extremely effective. That is what counts when it comes right down to brass tacks. Do what works...

A story conveyed to me involved an inmate who would seem to find something derogatory to say to every officer who would walk into the medium security 48-man pod. It didn't matter if the officer was a male or a female. Talking shit in front of the other equally disrespectful cellmates was actually a false award for bravery in the face of the enemy.

On this particular occasion, Goldie was making a security check within the pod and walked within a few feet of the shower stall. On cue, the inmate stepped out, presented his genitalia in cupped hands as if they were some sort of blue ribbon prize and loudly proclaimed, "Hey! Look here what I got for you".

She paused, and with everyone's eyes on her, took an intent survey of his groin, giggled in disrespect and said in an even louder voice, "Such a small thing to be so proud of!" The comment certainly was not professional, but it was the last time that particular inmate made any sexual overtones in his comments towards Goldie.