Prison Officers' Association 'deeply concerned' by inmate threat

The safety and security of prison officers in Trinidad and Tobago remain a paramount concern, as highlighted by the recent incident at the Teteron Barracks. Gerard Gordon, President of the Prison Officers’ Association (POA), has voiced significant apprehension following allegations that a prison officer was threatened by an inmate. This event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks and challenging environment that officers navigate daily within the nation's correctional facilities.

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it is deeply concerned by the recent incident at Teteron Barracks in which an officer was allegedly threatened by an inmate.

Gordon's statement underscores the POA's unwavering stance: threats against prison officers cannot be dismissed lightly. He emphasized the dedication of officers who perform their duties under "extremely challenging and often dangerous conditions" to maintain order, security, and public safety. The incident at Teteron Barracks is seen as a critical reminder of the daily perils faced by these individuals, reinforcing the need for robust safety protocols and swift, serious attention to such matters.

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We wish to make it absolutely clear that threats against prison officers must never be treated lightly. Our officers continue to perform their duties under extremely challenging and often dangerous conditions while maintaining order, security, and public safety within the nation’s correctional system.

The Association has pledged its full support to the affected officer and all officers across the service who continue to execute their responsibilities professionally despite the numerous hazards. The POA is calling for the implementation of all necessary measures to guarantee the safety and protection of its members. The specific incident involved a 34-year-old officer reporting a threat from a 46-year-old inmate, who has been in custody since 2017 and faces murder charges. The POA's firm position and call for action reflect a broader concern for the well-being of prison staff and the integrity of the correctional system.

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The incident serves as another reminder that prison officers face real risks on the job every day.