WCCF News (5/2020): What’s Happening at Wilkinson County Correctional Facility

By Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D.

Chaplain, Wilkinson County Correctional Facility
Copyright (c) 2020

#MTCChangesLives

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This is a collection of news briefs I compiled for The Woodville Republican (Woodville, Miss.). The collection is set to appear as a quarter-page ad on Thursday, May 21, 2020. Wilkinson County Correctional Facility (WCCF), Woodville, where I serve as chaplain and Public Information Officer (PIO), is publishing its news in this format each quarter in the local newspaper.

What’s Happening at

Wilkinson County Correctional Facility

‘Operations Continue without a Hitch’

In spite of limited movement and other restrictions due to COVID19, the day-to-day operations at WCCF have continued without a hitch, according to Deputy Warden of Operations Craig Coil. “We’re doing what is required to keep everybody safe,” he said. “We’re cleaning, sanitizing, and practicing social distancing as best we can in this type of environment. We’re also monitoring staff and doing regular safety checks with the offenders.” Coil complimented the facility’s medical staff, saying they are doing an outstanding job. “Everybody is on full alert,” he said.

Employees of the Month

WCCF honored three staff members for their hard work and exemplary contributions over the past three months. In addition to Academic Instructor Dwyane Anthony, who was named Employee of the Month for February, the facility recognized Sergeant Olivia Trask as Employee of the Month for March, and Recreational Specialist Emily Guth as Employee of the Month for April. Warden Scott Middlebrooks said he is proud of these staff members. “Their professionalism and commitment to their jobs can be seen every day in their attitude and work ethic,” he said.

Thompson, Schoettmer make masks for staff

Programs Clerk Creshawnda Thompson and Investigation Sergeant Kerrie Schoettmer spent a few days in April making masks for the entire WCCF staff. Thompson and Schoettmer drew up a pattern, and then in rapid motion, used sewing machines to churn out about 80 masks. Schoettmer had previously made 200 masks at home and donated them to the facility. A few other masks were also donated by relatives of WCCF staff.

Chelsie Dukes promoted to case manager

After working as a correctional officer and later as a clerk for the disciplinary hearing officer, Chelsie Dukes is now a case manager. Dukes recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology from Alcorn State University. Dukes was born in Woodville. She grew up in Knoxville, Tenn.

Clothes donated for reentry offenders

Volunteer Chaplain Adrian Fairchild and the Mississippi Baptist Board are working with Reentry Coordinator Keyla Williams to provide clothing for offenders returning to society. Fairchild’s ministry recently donated brand new sets of cloths for four offenders who completed their sentences and went home.

Management team makes pancakes for the staff

WCCF management team recently surprised their staff with a pancake breakfast. Program Director Tracey Arbuthnot, Deputy Warden of Programs George Castro, and Deputy Warden of Operations Craig Coil all pitched in to prepare and serve the meals. Castro said the event was all about appreciation. He said they wanted to show the staff that their hard work does not go unnoticed.

Plans underway for Correctional Workers’ Week

WCCF is prepping for the celebration of Correctional Workers’ Week, which will be held from May 25-29, according to Administrative Assistant Michelle Higginbotham. The event is held each year to recognize the officers and support staff. “We want to acknowledge the vital role they play in the criminal justice system,” Higginbotham said. Plans call for special meals throughout the week, and drawings for prizes on all shifts, among other things.

Donaldson named Unit Manager

Shareka Donaldson, who has worked for three years at WCCF, has been promoted to unit manager. The Fayette resident began her career as a correctional officer. She later became a records clerk before being promoted to zone sergeant. In her new position, she will manage the Long Term Segregation Unit. Donaldson said she is elated about the promotion. “I am so thankful to be chosen as the new unit manager,” she said.

#PrivatePrisons

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ROSCOE BARNES III, Ph.D., is a writer, chaplain, historian, and former newspaper reporter. He is the author of more than a dozen books and Gospel tracts. For more information about his work and history, see his Personal Profile here or visit his website: http://www.roscoebarnes.net. Connect with him on Twitter (@roscoebarnes3) or by email: roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com.