Correctional Officer

Correctional Officer

Bob Walsh

Stockton, CA

Male, 60

I worked for the California state system, starting as a Correctional Officer and retiring as a Lieutenant in 2005. I now write for the PacoVilla blog which is concerned with what could broadly be called The Correctional System.

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455 Questions

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Last Answer on February 10, 2022

Best Rated

What is your personal opinion of females being CO’s?

Asked by Peyton about 5 years ago

Some are very good. Some are hopeless idiots. Most are in the middle. Just like males.

4. Is a degree required? Would it help? What would be the best degree(s) to have? What about military experience?

Asked by Peyton about 5 years ago

I don't know that any system requires a degree for Correctional Officer. A criminal justice degree might help. A degree in Organizational Behavior might help. Military experience is often helpful and military people are used to the command structure which some people have trouble with.

Why would my son be moved prisons if he was already in the prison he was going to do his time?

Asked by Amber andrade about 5 years ago

Any number of possible reason. Could be he needed or wanted some sort of program that was available at another facility. Could be medical reasons. Could be an enemy situation. Could be a basic change in his custody level or of the custody level of the facility. Could be he pissed off somebody with enough juice to get him moved.

What where some pet peeves other Correctional Officer's would do?

Asked by Queen almost 6 years ago

I have been retired for over 15 years but I suspect it is about the same as it has been for 60 years. Lame supervisors. Incompetent administrators. Irritating politicians. Prisoners who think they are being picked on just because you want them to follow the rules everybody else has to follow. The usual suspects.

What do you think the scariest moment of your job was?

Asked by Muriel Baker over 4 years ago

I was in the middle of a couple of full-blown riots. That is kind of scary as you are never know if the riot is aimed at staff or other inmates.

What are types on inmates you will deal with?

Asked by Peyton about 5 years ago

All kinds.

Do you need to go through any kind of academy?

Asked by Peyton about 5 years ago

In Ca yes. I think it is 13 weeks right now. I suspect there is some sort of legally mandatory minimum training in all states for peace officers.