Belmont picket pays off; Inmate contraband uncovered, removed from prison

May 8, 2008 - A picket and media day at Belmont Chapter 710 has paid off for union leadership. Chapter leaders walked the picket line on Friday, May 2, protesting employee cuts and the increasing violence at the prison.

Belmont Correctional is supposed to house low to medium-level offenders only, but a surge in violence, including a recent stabbing, has union members concerned for their safety.

Chapter President Terry Dayton (pictured above) spoke to the Wheeling News-Register following the picket:  “Not only do we have a safety issue as far as containing prisoners, but we also have the issue of our people having mandated overtime,” he said.

“After 16 straight hours of working because of a shortage of manpower, nerves are going to fray on their part also.”

Now this week, management called for a “clear out” at BeCI using Special Response Teams from 12 institutions.

The sweep of the prison, which was conducted by more than 100 specially trained, elite security staff, uncovered shanks as well as tattoo equipment and drugs and alcohol held by inmates.

Union leaders were very satisfied with the response they received.

“Kudos to the warden and the department for sending the special teams. Now let’s come together and get some work done,” said Dayton.

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