Correctional Officer

Correctional Officer

Bob Walsh

Stockton, CA

Male, 60

I worked for the California state system, starting as a Correctional Officer and retiring as a Lieutenant in 2005. I now write for the PacoVilla blog which is concerned with what could broadly be called The Correctional System.

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Last Answer on February 10, 2022

Best Rated

4. Is a degree required? Would it help? What would be the best degree(s) to have? What about military experience?

Asked by Peyton almost 5 years ago

I don't know that any system requires a degree for Correctional Officer. A criminal justice degree might help. A degree in Organizational Behavior might help. Military experience is often helpful and military people are used to the command structure which some people have trouble with.

Why would my son be moved prisons if he was already in the prison he was going to do his time?

Asked by Amber andrade almost 5 years ago

Any number of possible reason. Could be he needed or wanted some sort of program that was available at another facility. Could be medical reasons. Could be an enemy situation. Could be a basic change in his custody level or of the custody level of the facility. Could be he pissed off somebody with enough juice to get him moved.

What is your personal opinion of females being CO’s?

Asked by Peyton almost 5 years ago

Some are very good. Some are hopeless idiots. Most are in the middle. Just like males.

What is the minimum age requirement? Under 18? 18+? 21+?

Then what would be a preferred age?

In addition to minimum age is there a maximum?

Asked by Peyton almost 5 years ago

Minimum age depends. As far as I know to be a peace officer in the U.S. you must be 21. Often they will hire you at 20 `1/2 so you are 21 when you actually get out of the academy and go to work. If you are a :"jailer" (non peace officer) you can be hired at 18 in most states.

What are types on inmates you will deal with?

Asked by Peyton almost 5 years ago

All kinds.

Do you need to go through any kind of academy?

Asked by Peyton almost 5 years ago

In Ca yes. I think it is 13 weeks right now. I suspect there is some sort of legally mandatory minimum training in all states for peace officers.

What do you think the scariest moment of your job was?

Asked by Muriel Baker over 4 years ago

I was in the middle of a couple of full-blown riots. That is kind of scary as you are never know if the riot is aimed at staff or other inmates.