Community Restitution and Prison Work Crews Help with Snowstorm Recovery

February 7, 2008

PLCCW Garden

A Prison Work Crew clears snow in Cheney

Department of Corrections Community Restitution and Prison Work Crews provided valuable assistance to Eastern Washington communities struggling to dig out from the series of snowstorms that hit the region in late January and early February.

The DOC-supervised offender crews cleared snow from sidewalks, rooftops and fire hydrants in Airway Heights, Cheney, and Medical Lake. Offenders also cleared snow from around abandoned vehicles so they could be towed.

Community Restitution Crews in Spokane and Prison Work Crews from Pine Lodge Corrections Center for Women shoveled snow from around the homes of numerous elderly or disabled citizens, allowing them to attend doctor’s appointments, get medical care, and receive mail.

In a letter to the Editor at The Spokesman Review regarding DOC, Linda McClain of the Coalition of Responsible Disabled praised the efforts of the community restitution crews. “DOC was readily available to shovel walkways, ramps, and driveways in order to provide the needed access for folks to get out and fully participate in their daily responsibilities,” McClain said. “We are grateful to have such a program that provides a much-needed service on behalf of people with disabilities.”

As a result of efforts by Prison Work Crews from Airway Heights Corrections Center, two State Parks buildings at Mount Spokane were saved from possible collapse due to the several feet of heavy, wet, snow that had accumulated on the rooftops. The rescued buildings included a sand shed, which is a large building that holds sand used on roads during the winter months, and a shop used for repairing park equipment. Additionally, the crews cleared snow from around propane tanks, a pump house, and the Park Ranger’s house.

Both Community Restitution and Prison Work Crews routinely perform valuable services for communities across the state.  These crews are deployed through contracts with federal, state, county, city and community non-profit groups. Offenders selected to participate on crews go through a strict review process to ensure suitable offenders are assigned to crews. Offenders participating on these crews are transported to and from the work site by trained Correctional Officers who provide direct supervision and are responsible for ensuring continuous safety and security of the crew and community.

Divider image - horizontal green bar