Prison Officer Duties: Preferences and Least-Favorite Tasks

A prison officer's daily tasks can vary widely, with different challenges and rewarding moments. For two particular experiences, working at Texas prisons highlighted the stark differences between outdoor security and inmate management duties.

Outdoor Security vs. Inmate Management - The easiest job was undoubtedly the outdoor security role. As a prison officer, one's primary responsibility was to patrol the perimeter of the prison grounds, watching for any suspicious activity or attempts of prisoners to escape. This task required long hours of surveillance, yet it came with a perk – the ability to enjoy some personal freedom by listening to the radio during the shift. However, the less desirable task of monitoring the food line during chow time was a different story. This job entailed vigilance and the ability to engage in conflict resolution, requiring strong leadership and conflict management skills.

Challenging Inmate Management Tasks

One of the more challenging duties involved monitoring the food line during meal times. The line was a hot spot for food theft, where many inmates would try to sneak extra food or make multiple passes to the line. The prison officers who excelled in this task were known for their leadership and their ability to handle difficult situations effectively.

During one shift, an officer was tasked with randomly patting down inmates leaving the chow hall to check for stolen food. An inmate who had worked in the kitchen was caught with a carton of milk wrapped discreetly in his pant cuffs. Despite the officer's intention to address the situation, the inmate broke down when his milk was taken away, claiming he needed to give it to someone important. The options for the officer were limited – he could not return the milk, and the inmate was sent to solitary to cool off and reflect on his actions.

Less-Favorite Tasks: Monitoring the Food Line

Monitoring the food line during meal times was one of the least-favorite tasks for prison officers. It tested one's ability to handle difficult and sometimes underhanded situations with discretion and firmness. The leadership involved was crucial in maintaining order and ensuring that fair treatment was given to all inmates.

During one particularly difficult shift, a female officer had to deal with a scenario involving a prisoner who had used saran wrap to hide a chicken around his torso. The prisoner suffered from the extreme heat, leading to a medical episode that required him to be moved to solitary for a few days. This incident highlighted the potential for inmates to find creative ways to break rules and the need for diligent and effective monitoring.

Another memorable instance involved an officer who caught an inmate casually walking with a carton of milk stashed in his pant cuffs. Unbeknownst to the officer, the inmate claimed that the milk belonged to someone, making the situation even more challenging. When the officer took the milk away, the inmate almost broke down, making a heartfelt plea to keep it. This situation showcased both the unpredictable nature of the tasks and the personal responsibilities carried by the prison officers.

Way of Life and Reflection

Prison officers face a dual challenge – one of finding a reasonable way to assert authority and maintain order, and the other of ensuring that the actions taken are fair and just. The role demands a blend of physical, mental, and emotional strength to navigate the complexities of a prison environment.

The tasks mentioned above represent a small sample of the myriad challenges faced by prison officers. Their vigilance and commitment to the job are a testament to their dedication and bravery. By understanding and appreciating their duties, we can better support and recognize the important role they play in maintaining law and order in society.