Completion of Operational Review
and Investigation

Department of Corrections Secretary James V. Crosby, Jr., today announced the completion of a comprehensive, 6-month operational review and investigation of Charlotte Correctional Institution, done in the wake of the murder of Officer Darla Lathrem.

"I am confident that since the arrival of Warden Chester Lambdin, policies and procedure are being adhered to ensuring the safety and security of both staff and inmates," said Secretary James V. Crosby, Jr. As a result of the review conducted by the department's Inspector Generals Office, personnel action was taken against 5 employees.

• Assistant Warden A. W. Boyett requested a hardship demotion to Colonel at Brevard Correctional Institution immediately following the incident. Further, as a result of the administrative investigation, he has been demoted to Sergeant.
• Correctional Officer Captain Jody Davis will be demoted to Sergeant effective January 16, 2004.
• Correctional Officer Lieutenant Rick Orzechowski will be demoted to Sergeant effective January 16, 2004.
• Correctional Officer Sergeant Mark Meier received a record of counseling on January 12, 2004.
• Correctional Officer Sergeant Glenda Buendia received a record of counseling on January 13, 2004.
• Warden Cornell chose to retire on June 19, 2003.

Findings of the investigation concluded that staff failed to ensure that 2 officers were present when construction was taking place in dormitories. The investigation also found that there was no monitoring of the construction project beyond the normal duty hours to ensure that manpower was being utilized properly. Policies requiring all staff to wear a body alarm were not enforced. Inmates were not placed in restraints during movement, key control and sensitive tool policies were not followed and required security checks were not made or monitored to ensure compliance with policy.

No further staff discipline is anticipated.