By C1 Staff
IONIA, Mich. — Following the high-profile escape of an inmate who credited the facility for help, the Ionia Correctional Facility is taking all the recommendations it can get.
Having already earmarked $11 million this year for security upgrades, and with another $42 million on the way, they’re pulling out all the stops in adding new lighting, cameras, prisoner uniforms, upgraded counting procedures, and much more, according to WILX.
But the one thing that many, including the corrections officers’ union, would like to see is continually being ignored.
Armed officers in the towers and one patrolling the perimeter at all times would make a world of difference, according to the Michigan Corrections Organization executive director.
“If you asked people in the community, they would like to have those present. If keeps everyone safe,” says MCO Executive Director Mel Grieshaber.
“As soon as a fight starts, one warning shot will stop all prisoner activity.”
The towers are staffed on-and-off, and front-lobby officers patrol the perimeter whenever they can. Currently, there are no plans to change either one.
Should the facility change tack and focus on the towers and perimeter patrols, or are their security upgrades on the right path?