Dorchester Banner/Dave Ryan
Members of the Dorchester County Council issued a proclamation during their meeting May 1, in honor of Correctional Officers’ Week, May 6-12. Commissioners were joined by officers from the Dorchester County Department of Corrections, including Director Joseph Hughes, in back in white.[/caption] CAMBRIDGE – The Dorchester County Commissioners recognized Dorchester’s correctional officers on May 1, by issuing a proclamation in honor of National Correctional Officers’ and Employees’ Week, May 6-12. Council President Rick Travers (District 3) read the document, which said in part, “Though not always well known, their contributions are substantial.” The observance is held every year in the first full week of May. A statement on the website of the American Correctional Association said, “We take this time to recognize and applaud the hard work, dedication and the great commitment of those who serve in various correctional facilities and in all capacities across the profession.” Dorchester County Department of Corrections Director Joseph Hughes was present at the meeting with a delegation of his officers. He thanked the council and his men and women, saying, “It’s a difficult job.” He noted that three of four inmates have to be detoxed upon entering the local facility at 829 Fieldcrest Road in Cambridge. The officers do assessments and interventions on the inmates, many of whom also have mental health issues. “They’re trying to get them help with drugs and alcohol,” Director Hughes said. He added that the recidivism, or inmate return rate, is 70-75 percent. To reach the county’s Department of Corrections, call 410-228-8101. For information on the national organization, visit www.aca.org.