Sadness, anger over correctional officer’s death

Editor, Our CDC family has been rocked, once again, by the senseless death of one of our beloved correctional officers. Through all the sadness and anger, we will pull together and do what we do best — honor this fallen officer.

These inmates were Level I inmates, in a dorm setting. You know, the ones that many say are serving time for “minor” and/or “non-violent” crimes.

The ones that many say should just be let out because they are not a threat to society.

The ones that many say shouldn’t be in prison in the first place.

The ones that you voted on reduced sentencing because their crimes, such as rape and armed robbery, were non-violent.

The ones you fight to keep out of your neighborhood once they parole.

The ones that you think deserve far better healthcare than the average citizen.

The ones that you think need a free college education while serving their time.

The ones that you think need to have access to endless programs while in prison, with no regard to staff safety.

The ones that you think need to be rehabilitated without additional staffing.

The ones you think deserve overnight (conjugal) visits.

Yes, these are the inmates that murdered a correctional officer.

This is the correctional officer that you refer to as an “overpaid babysitter,” and a “knuckle dragging guard.” Yet, you won’t sign up for the job.

This is the correctional officer that you complain doesn’t deserve the wages, retirement or benefits that he was paid. Yet, you won’t sign up for the job.

This is the correctional officer that went to work that day and did his job.

This is the correctional officer that was met with resistance during the course of his duties.

This is the correctional officer that was assaulted for enforcing the rules of prison.

This is the correctional officer that sacrificed everything to protect you and your family.

This is the correctional officer that will no longer return home to his family.

Correctional officer A. Gallegos will never be forgotten by his fellow correctional officers. Jamie Goodrick-allen

Visalia