During a recent government meeting, the Director of the Department of Corrections, Fred Bernalio Jr., provided a detailed update on the current state of the correctional facilities in Guam, focusing on significant issues such as inmate escapes and staffing challenges.

Bernalio reported that since his appointment in August 2023, there have been two attempted escapes that were successfully thwarted, while one inmate escaped during a medical run. He emphasized the importance of maintaining security within the overcrowded facilities, where the majority of inmates are pretrial detainees. The director acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by the high inmate-to-officer ratio, which currently stands at approximately 1 officer for every 78 inmates, a situation he described as unacceptable.

The director highlighted the need for increased recruitment and retention of correctional officers to improve safety and operational efficiency. He noted that the department is actively seeking support from the government to address these staffing shortages, which hinder the ability to provide essential programs and services within the facilities.

In response to these challenges, Senator Chris Barnett expressed his commitment to introducing legislation aimed at conducting a retention pay study for the Department of Corrections. He underscored the similarities in challenges faced by both the Department of Corrections and the Guam Police Department, advocating for a comprehensive approach to address manpower issues.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among various government entities, including the judiciary and the office of the attorney general, to address the growing concerns surrounding pretrial detentions and the legal implications of prolonged incarceration without trial. The discussions underscored the urgent need for systemic reforms to enhance the safety and effectiveness of Guam's correctional system.