NDCS releases Tecumseh incident report

By: KLKN Newsroom

8@klkntv.com

Press Release:

Lincoln – Today, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) Director Scott Frakes announced the release of the critical incident review (CIR) of the disturbance at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution (TSCI). Report was authored by Tomas Fithian, Administrator of Security & Emergency Management at Washington State Department of Corrections.

"I greatly appreciate the efforts of Mr. Fithian and the NDCS team that completed this thorough review of the disturbance", said Director Frakes. "The report provides an realistic assessment of the events of May 10-11, and makes recommendations that will enhance operations across the agency.  In addition to identifying needed improvements, the report also highlights the courageous actions of staff and in the dedication shown since the disturbance. ”    

The Critical Incident Review Team report made the following findings: 

·         Unclear practices for TSCI’s over the counter (OTC) pill line contributed to allowing more inmates out of the living units than anticipated by staff  

·         At the time of the incident, staff “responded appropriately and performed well…”

·         The coordinated response by law enforcement and TSCI staff ensured that public safety was never compromised  

·         Repairs at TSCI must be completed before the facility can return to normal operations

The report also included the following recommendations:  

·         Improvements to the response team structure and the introduction of a system of phased response  

·         Additional preventative measures to protect correctional facility staff and approve written tactical plans

·         Various physical plant improvements

·         Review and revision of policy, procedure, and post orders directing security operations

The Critical Incident Review report also includes:       

·         Incident summary

·         List of major events  

·         Summary of incident events  

·         Response to the incident  

·         Management of the incident

·         Causal factors

·         Comprehensive list of recommendations

TSCI is currently operating with restricted movement, gradually returning to normal operations.   Emergency staffing patterns remain in effect for most of the employees at TSCI, with security staff working 12 hour shifts, 4 days per week. A formal corrective action plan to address the recommendations of the review team will be completed and published by the end of July.  Improvements to practices consistent with many of the recommendations are already underway.