Audit finds problems with Vermont inmate grievance system

MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) — The Vermont Division of Correction’s system for inmate grievances is troubled by incomplete data and lacks executive-level oversight, in line with a report launched Monday by the state auditor.

“It may be tempting to brush off prisoners’ complaints in mild of the actions that led to their incarceration,” state Auditor Doug Hoffer stated in a press release. “However correctional officers universally agree {that a} truthful and efficient grievance system is vital to sustaining a protected atmosphere behind jail partitions. When inmates’ complaints are dealt with rapidly and professionally they’re much less prone to act out in ways in which pose a hazard to themselves, fellow inmates, or correctional officers.”

In response, the Corrections Division introduced that it will take steps to digitize what’s now a paper-based grievance system and kind an unbiased unit with the authority to do critiques of the grievance course of and examine main incidents like escapes, deaths, and allegations of sexual assault.

“These adjustments will improve accountability and transparency throughout Vermont’s complete correctional system,” Corrections Commissioner Nicholas Deml stated in a press release.

The Division of Corrections stated new software program will transfer the grievance system onto tablets all incarcerated folks in Vermont use for schooling, speaking with household, and leisure.

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