PRESS RELEASE: Stafford Creek Correctional Officer Dies From COVID-19

Released August 23, 2021

Contact Rachel Ericson (email), (360) 890-0889 Communications Office

TUMWATER – The Washington State Department of Corrections was notified that Correctional Officer Darryl Goodrich of the Stafford Creek Corrections Center passed away on August 20, 2021 from complications of COVID-19.

“While we cannot express in words our sorrow at this loss, our hearts and prayers go out to Darryl’s family and friends,” said Secretary Cheryl Strange. “We grieve their loss, as does the extended family of the Stafford Creek Corrections Center.”

Officer Goodrich joined the Stafford Creek family in June 2020. Prior to working for Stafford, he worked for the Department of Health and Social Services from August 2001 to February 2004 at Greenhill.

“Darryl was respected by his co-workers and friends,” said Ron Haynes, Superintendent at Stafford Creek Corrections Center. “He was always volunteering to assist in any way he could and showed incredible dedication. He will be missed.”

Consistent with the Health Emergency Labor Standards Act (HELSA) (pdf), the department is proceeding on the presumption that his death was work-related. The department will review Officer Goodrich’s death as a possible line of duty death. For that review, the department will consult with the following entities: Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program, National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial-Behind the Badge Foundation and the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries