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Internal Emails Reveal Complaints in Aftermath of Prison Uprising, WBOC Reports

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Internal emails obtained by WBOC found that in the aftermath of the uprising at the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center that left one officer dead correctional officers expressed concern about a decision by the acting warden to allow the inmates outdoor recreational time.

In his email acting Warden Phil Parker said that the inmates were getting restless and they should be provided the recreational time with adequate security precautions.

The television station reports that the emails to Parker even included the accusation that some in upper management supported the inmates more than the rank-and-file correctional officers.

One officer wrote, “Admin sits back in their cushy chairs far away from the scene while we put our lives on the line every day.”

WBOC says that Geoff Klopp, president of the Correctional Officers Association of Delaware, declined to comment on camera but did admit correctional officers were worried.

Finally, Attorney Stephen Hampton who represents inmates in a civil suit told the station that while sympathizing with the guards this should not prevent certain privileges from returning to the inmates.

Don Rush is the News Director at Delmarva Public Media. An award-winning journalist, Don reports major local issues of the day, from sea level rise, to urban development, to the changing demographics of Delmarva.