NCJ Number
137290
Date Published
1991
Length
270 pages
Annotation
This report presents the findings from a public hearing on allegations of corruption among correctional officers in Queensland (Australia) prisons and a cover up by the Queensland Corrective Services Commission.
Abstract
On October 25, 1990, Mr. Ray Conner, MLA, raised in Parliament, allegations of drug trafficking by officers of the Queensland Corrective Services Commission and general corruption in the Commission and prison staffs. Allegations claimed that female inmates have been forced into prostitution by correctional officers, correctional officers have been involved in drug dealing and the stealing of produce and other items from prison farms, and the Queensland Corrective Services Commission has covered up inmate and correctional officers criminal activity. Evidence relevant to these allegations was solicited by the Criminal Justice Commission at public hearings. This was in conjunction with extensive police investigations and work by Commission attorneys. After hearing testimony and reviewing the evidence, the Commission concluded that most of the evidence of corruption was hearsay, rumor, or mere suspicion. There was no evidence of any cover-up or impropriety by the Queensland Corrective Services Commission. It became apparent during the hearings, however, that a number of correctional staff lacked training. The Commission thus offers recommendations to improve officer training and tighten prison security procedures. Appended witness and exhibit lists