Dear Commisioner [sic] Ponte 8-1-2011
The past couple of months here at the prison have been stressful due to the changes. However, I crossed paths with three officers that had a sense of integrity, respecfulness [sic], professionalism, and also one was exceptionabley [sic] inspirational towards a troubled prisoner!
While I was at the prison’s property department I overheard officer [name omitted for confidentiality] consoling a troubled prisoner. He offered empathy and he shared a personal story with him about his own [life]. [Due to confidentiality, Sophie is going to sum up the story…the officer had a person he knew that was incarcerated and was able to get out of prison and change their life path.] He encouraged the prisoner by speaking words of inspiration. He made a deal with him. As long as the prisoner was successful with the disciplinary time, he would allow him use of [specifics omitted] that the prisoner wanted. I thought that was great.
Officer Hankins is also an exceptional staff member. We had a conversation that involved many subjects. One stood out from the rest. As I was describing the way prisoners are oppressed due to prison staff, officer Hankins reminded me that in any situation a person can excel if they put their minds to it. I agree!
Finally, Sergeant Giffort has been respectful and professional while dealing with inmates. We had a conversation, and when it ended I realized he had instilled a sense of humanity within me. He did nothing spechal [sic], just treated me like a human.
Mr. Ponte to fix the problem please help with rehabilitation through inspiration!
Thank you for your time
Henry
MSP
