First row: second from left – Autumn J. Mathisen, fifth from left – Christa J. Oliveri
Second row: second from left – Rocco J. Auricchio
Press Release:
Genesee County Sheriff Joseph M. Graff announces the recent graduations of several Correction Officers from the Basic Course for Correction Officers Academy: Correction Officers Christa I. Oliveri, Autumn J. Mathisen and Rocco J. Auricchio from Niagara County on May 2, and Correction Officers Laurie J. Schwab, Ryan J. Peck and Mariah A. Blahowicz from Livingston County on April 29.
“These officers completed training in effective communications, essential services, NYS Penal Law, Criminal Procedure Law, Inmate Transportation, Firearms, Incident Prevention, Pepper Spray, Defensive Tactics, among other topics,” stated Sheriff Graff. “These are all vital trainings for the position of Correction Officer.”
In addition to celebrating these recent graduations, May 4 – May 10 is National Correctional Officers’ Week, a week that President Ronald Reagan proclaimed would be observed in recognition of the important role Correction Officers play in our criminal justice system.
The position of Correction Officer, once considered merely that of a “guard,” has become increasingly more complex and demanding, involving simultaneously custodial, supervisory, rehabilitation, and counseling roles, and that complexity continues to grow. This week acknowledges the difficult and challenging job Correction Officers perform, locked within a facility for a large part of their day where they must securely, safely, and humanely keep those committed to the jail, respecting the rights and dignity of all the inmates, including those who have been found guilty and those only awaiting adjudication.
“On behalf of our entire Sheriff’s Office and the community we serve, we thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your steadfast commitment to justice and safety,” stated Sheriff Graff. “If you know a Correction Officer, please join me in thanking these men and women for their exceptional service. This responsibility is immense, and their work deserves our deepest respect and appreciation.”
The lights on the Old County Courthouse cupola will be changed to red, white and blue to acknowledge this week.
Submitted photos.
First row: first from right – Ryan J. Peck, second from right – Laurie J. Schwab, third from right – Mariah A. Blahowicz
