This article, originally published 10/02/2014, has been updated with current information
By C1 Staff
You can never be too well-informed – coming off of our last list of corrections books, here are another six that were suggested by commenters. Grab these the next time you’re at the bookstore, or even online, in order to stay on your toes and perform your job to the best of your ability and go home safely at the end of each shift.
Have another to add? Be sure to share in the comments below.
1. Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement by Gil Martin
This book addresses the dynamics that can transform idealistic and committed law enforcement officers/employees into cynical, angry individuals who begin to have difficulties in both the personal and professional aspects of their lives. It offers preventative measures to stop this process and help the reader reduce the negative impact of a law enforcement career.
2. The Art of the Con by Gary Cornelius
Many officers and staff believe they are too smart to be tricked by an offender. Realizing this possibility exists is the first step in avoiding manipulation. This book provides correctional officers with a better understanding of offenders and their characteristics, behavior and culture.
3. Corrections Officers’ Guide to Understanding Inmates by Larone Koonce
The “Correction Officer’s Guide to Understanding Inmates” helps the reader understand what it means to be a correction officer and how experienced correction officers and prison guards control inmate behaviors.
4. Prisoons: Prison Cartoons and Anecdotes by Curtis McCarthy
“Prisoons: Prison Cartons and Anecdotes” is written by a retired correctional officer with 30 years of experience. The book contains over 150 cartoons drawn by officers and inmates collected from the United States and Canada.
5. Games Criminals Play by Bud Allen and Diana Bosta
A bestseller for over two decades, this fascinating resource exposes how criminals try to control the behavior of correctional personnel and how to recognize, prevent and stop manipulation. Learn how inmates observe and select victims. Also see how they gain their confidence and sympathy and make demands.
6. Sweet Hell on Fire by Sara Lunsford
As a CO at an all-male maximum security prison, Sara Lunsford worked with the worst of the worst. And dealing with a stressful divorce and a mother succumbing to cancer led her to a complete immersion in her work and the bottom of a liquor bottle. “Sweet Hell on Fire” takes the reader on a journey from hitting rock bottom to becoming a woman who understands the meaning of sacrifice and the quiet haven to be found in hope.