Archive for May, 2009
CDCR Honors One of Ironwood’s Own with Medal of Valor
The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation awarded Medals of Valor and other awards during its 25th anniversary ceremony in May, including to Monterey County workers.
Two employees exhibited extraordinary bravery and conduct in two incidents where public safety was at risk. Both received the Department’s highest award for heroism and courage beyond the normal demands of correctional service.
Correctional Officer Christopher A. Briones, Ironwood State Prison, and Office of Correctional Safety Special Agent Daniel A. Evanilla are the CDCR Medal of Valor recipients for actions taken in 2008. The awards were presented by CDCR Secretary Matthew L. Cate at a ceremony conducted at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Sacramento, during a prestigious event sponsored by the California Correctional Supervisor’s Organization. More than 50 employees received awards that ranged from the Medal of Valor to Unit Citations.
The Medal of Valor is earned by employees distinguishing themselves by conspicuous bravery or heroism above and beyond the normal demands of correctional service. The employee shall display great courage in the face of immediate life-threatening peril and with full knowledge of the risk involved. The act should show professional judgment and not jeopardize operations or the lives of others…
READ THE REST OF THE ARTICLE, OTHER AWARDS LISTED - TheCalifornian.com
Other Ironwood Medals Received:
Gold Star Medal
Correctional Officer Mose M. Maiava Jr., Ironwood State Prison
Silver Star Medal
Correctional Sergeant Eric Olive, Ironwood State Prison
Program Helps Female Parolees Stay Out of Prison
…The FRMSC offers a variety of gender responsive services including case management, trauma treatment, substance abuse and domestic violence education, life skills development, family focused services, parenting classes, educational services, GED preparation, vocational training and family reunification services.
“The paths that women follow prior to incarceration are often very different from those of men,” said Debra Herndon, Acting Associate Director of Female Offender Programs and Services. “Most of the women in our prison system have suffered from physical and emotional trauma. Many turn to substance abuse to mask the pain. That can lead to crime to support their habit which in turn can lead to incarceration. This new program aims to get to the root of the trauma and break the cycle.”
When a woman arrives to the FRMSC she is assessed by the treatment team which includes an alcohol and drug counselor, family therapist, program director, vocational developer and parole agent. She is then evaluated in the following areas: substance abuse history, traumatic life events, family history, housing needs, legal issues, medical issues, employment and educational history. Based on these assessments, the team will identify strengths and needs and will try to maximize the potential of each individual woman…
LINK - CDCR.ca.gov