Two Lancaster CI Correctional Officers Placed on Administrative Leave

Department of Corrections Secretary Walter McNeil has placed two correctional officers from Lancaster Correctional Institution on administrative leave after learning of conflicting witness statements. 

 “Out of an abundance of caution, I have placed these officers on administrative leave until this issue is resolved. The mission of this department is public safety, and that includes the safety of our 102,000 inmates, a responsibility I take very seriously,” said McNeil. “If any wrongdoing has occurred, appropriate, swift action will be taken.  In the meantime, these officers will have no further contact with inmates.”

 The officers being placed on administrative leave are:

• Correctional Officer Sergeant Michael Devanie
• Correctional Officer James Barry

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating and we appreciate their assistance.  “I have every assurance that the investigation will be thorough and complete and at the conclusion we’ll know all the facts in this case,” said Secretary McNeil.