Westover, MD-Eastern Correctional Institute (ECI) has a major problem, an urgent and very dangerous situation.

Recent events have exposed severe safety and staffing issues, threatening the well-being of both inmates and correctional officers. Most recently, staffing shortages have plagued ECI, exacerbating the facility's already challenging conditions.

Reports indicate that some shifts operate with just a single officer per building, with a capacity of over 375 inmates. None of the buildings currently has under 150 inmates, so the officer-to-inmate ratio is dangerous in itself.

This imbalance compromises the safety and security of everyone within the institution.

Correctional officers face immense risks daily, and the current staffing crisis only amplifies these dangers. Eastern Shore Undercover received credible information that an incident on Thursday saw a single officer assaulted by an inmate while managing a yard with several unrestricted inmates.  

This incident highlights the dire need for increased staffing and improved safety measures to protect those who serve in these high-stakes environments.

The officer safety issues are just the tip of the iceberg. ECI has reached a critical point, with multiple overdoses taking place over the past 2 weeks and two rumored homicides taking place in the past six months. These tragedies underscore the urgent need for better oversight, increased staffing, and comprehensive reform to address the correctional facility's major issues.

Without prompt intervention, the safety and staffing issues at ECI will likely lead to escalating violence and disorder. Inmates and staff will continue to be at risk, and the facility's overall security will deteriorate further.

The crisis at Eastern Correctional Institute is a stark reminder of the daily dangers these Correctional Officers face and the urgent need for a resolution. This isn't something that can wait a few months or even a few weeks; it needs to be addressed immediately.

By addressing the safety and staffing issues at the facility, we can create a safer environment for both inmates and correctional officers. 

If you are interested in a position with the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, they will be hosting an Eastern Shore Hiring Event. The event will take place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Wor-Wic Community College in the Fulton Owen Hall.

For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/331007890082542/