After working as a Detention Deputy for over 25 years at the Hennepin County Jail, I know it can be a dangerous job.
But in the current political climate it's added a new element. Before there was always the possibility of a jail assault or of running into a former inmate who had a beef with you outside and in public. Now it's grown political.
In NY John Jeff an off duty Corrections Officer who worked at Rikers Island was shot and killed.
Last night rioters angry over a Kenosha Wisconsin shooting, attacked the Hennepin County Public Safety Facility (PSF). They broke windows, tried to breach the lobby, were gassed and subsequently 11 were arrested.
In a Star Tribune article reporting the event Sheriff Hutch says:
"“We fully support peaceful protests, but we cannot — and will not — allow demonstrators to destroy property or jeopardize the safety and security of our inmates, our deputies and our jail,” Sheriff Dave Hutchinson said in a statement."
My advice to my former co-workers and current Detention Deputies is twofold.
1. Be extra aware of your surroundings.
2. Conceal Carry.
In the early 90's when MPD Officer Jerry Haaf was executed, the jail began receiving calls that 'a brownie is next.' We wore brown uniforms back in the day so we were referred to as brownies. This was also painted on the Security Garage of the jail and on a wall near a parking lot many of us used. (This was over a failed United for Peace negotiation with MPD. Side note, current MN Attorney General Keith Ellison supported the killers).
An inmate pulled me aside and said 'they' were planning to take out a brownie next. He proceeded to tell me where I parked, what streets I walked to work, and even told me the exact car I drove. He said, I don't want it to be you. He advised varying my route, don't walk alone, not to walk past the welfare building (stood where current PSF is) because "The brothers waiting outside are watching deputies, they ain't there for welfare." *Actually a lot more to this story.
I took his advice and also got a permit to carry.
I always prided myself on treating inmates fairly and that went a long way both inside the jail and out. Those days may be gone.
The new dangerous element is political. As Detention Deputies you represent Government and Law enforcement so to many, regardless of your professionalism you are a target.
Be careful!
