Former Allegany County Sheriff responds to Amie Acton on “Reps Endorse Torture”

A OPINION by Rick Whitney, former Allegany County Sheriff

I had to respond to the op-ed from Amie Acton that “NY State prisons used to routinely use torture as a means of control”. This shows how out of touch with reality the far-left is. I served as Allegany County Sheriff for 12 years. The county jail is split into pods, each pod holding from 32-38 inmates and is controlled by one Corrections Officer who is locked in the pod with the inmates. Each inmate has their own cell. During a normal day, each inmate is allowed out of their cell for 10 to 12 hours. They are allowed to interact with each other, playing cards, dominoes, doing puzzles, watching DVD’s or TV, etc. They can use the exercise area or make phone calls to their family or attorneys.

          Now on to the “torture”. If an inmate breaks the rules, they are “double locked” in their cell, usually for 24 to 48 hours, depending on the severity of the violation. No possessions are taken away, they still have their books or magazines, clothing, bedding, personal care items, etc. They still are allowed to shower, and they still receive the same meals as the other inmates, they still receive their medication and medical care. It’s still possible for them to talk to the other inmates from inside their cell and contact the CO if they are having a problem. It basically equates to a parent sending a child to their room. Nobody is locked in a dark dungeon and ignored for days on end.

          This is the only control the officer has over the inmates. If they are allowed to break the rules with no consequences, then there is going to be mayhem. The rules in these facilities are there to protect the other inmates as well as the officers. Since the HALT ACT was initiated, assaults on officers and inmates have dramatically increased. I am in full support of the State Correction Officers; the HALT act needs to be repealed for the safety of everyone involved.