WATERBURY, Vt. (WCAX) – The Vermont Department of Corrections is launching a new internal investigations unit.
The Legislature established the program in 2021. It’s made up of three staff members, including two investigators. The unit will be tasked with investigating issues surrounding prison deaths, escape attempts, as well as compliance with federal laws, according to DOC officials.
DOC Commissioner Nick Deml says while staffing remains one of the biggest needs for the department, the unit could help in their recruitment and retention efforts. “I think this unit does help move the ball forward on that by increasing transparency, increasing integrity in the system, but also identifying those areas where — hey, staff aren’t liking the way we do ‘X,’ now how do we go solve that issue. Here are some recommendations and here’s how we can advance the ball forward,” he said.
At the end of each investigation, the unit will put out a report identifying where the department can improve. The unit will not investigate allegations of employee misconduct.