Calhoun County jailers recognized for Correctional Officers Week

CALHOUN COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) – They work behind secure walls playing a vital role in law enforcement and the criminal justice system while keeping a low profile.

This week is set aside to honor correctional officers nationwide.

Kristina Conner has always understood the potential dangers and challenges of her job as a jailer.

“You will be pushed to the limits, and then you also have the chances of being attacked, you never know what’s going to happen when you walk into work, our jobs are not like anyone else’s jobs,” said Connor.

Conner is celebrating four years on the job as a correctional officer at the Calhoun County Jail. She is the only female jailer on staff and believed there are a lot of misconceptions about a jailer’s duties.

“A lot of people think we don’t do anything, and the facts are, we do a lot, we are responsible for a lot, there’s a lot that rides on our shoulders, we all have to be a team, we have to get on the same page with one another”

Calhoun County Sheriff Greg Pollan called the jailers the unsung heroes of the criminal justice system.

He pointed out they have many roles to play and they are also under intense scrutiny, but he said they keep the public and the inmates safe.

“Half of my day is dealing with a problem, or something related to the jail, at least 50 percent of the day, somehow connected, whether it’s getting inmates to court, to doctor, making sure they can meet with their attorney, or whatever it is, it is a huge responsibility,” said Sheriff Pollan.

Despite the liability issues, and potential dangers, jailers at Calhoun County said they are proud to play a vital role in the criminal justice system. And to show his appreciation, Sheriff Pollan treated his jailers to lunch as part of Correctional Officers’ Appreciation Week.

President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation marking National Correctional Officers Week in 1984.