SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — More cameras, more guards and more security measures are recommended for the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls.
Monday, Governor Dennis Daugaard and the prison warden sat down to discuss a report on last month’s murder of correctional officer Ronald Johnson and the attempted escape of two prisoners.
We’ll take a closer look at new details surrounding the events of that day.
11 of the 12 changes are already in place. Some were made the day after officer Ronald Johnson’s death, others were made just this week.
One big change is still in the works and it will have a pretty big price tag.
200 cameras are already installed in and around South Dakota State Penitentiary’s complex.
But as many as 100 more will be added.
The new cameras will be installed at the west gate, at the learning center and at Jameson Annex which sits behind this building.
Warden Doug Weber says the cameras will be recording.
“That’s been valuable in the past. We’ve actually been able to go back and solve crimes that happened inside prison,” Weber said.
The cameras are expected to be installed by mid-August and could cost upwards of $160,000.
Here are the other changes already in place: The prison hired three correctional officers. One was hired two days after Johnson’s death, the other two were hired at the end of April. Lighting was improved in some areas. Additional razor wire and non-climbing mesh was added. Officials identified inmates who’ve tried to escape before and two of them were relocated. Staff office locations were evaluated to make sure they were safe and secure. Officers are also controlling and limiting more than ever where inmates can go.
“It has to be restricted. We have to know why they’re out, where they’re going and there’s some supervision provided while they’re moving around,” Weber said.
There is now only one way to enter and exit the Prison Industries Building. Before April 12th, there was nine. The staff desk was moved to the front door in that building. And if officers are working in the Prison Industries Building, they have to carry radios. All visitors and staff can only enter the prison through the Main Control Room. And in effect Monday, all prison staff members are required to wear body alarms.
12 changes many say needed to be made.
“These changes, they’re very solid, they make a lot of sense and will improve our overall operation,” Weber said.
Body alarms will cost up to $6,000. The governor says that’s a one-time fee.
To pay for these changes the governor thinks the money will be available. He stays there should enough money in the Department of Corrections budget. If not he says, then they will go to the legislature or look to the fiscal year 2012 budget.
Republished with permission from KSFY.com