Antigua Prison Launches Officer Recruitment Drive

The prison has initiated a campaign to recruit 40 new officers as part of its transformation from a traditional prison to a rehabilitation-focused institution.

The facility is seeking 95% males and 5% females because of the current inmate population which is predominantly male and the staff which is 50 % female.

The prison currently operates with 70-75 officers managing approximately 255 inmates.

Officials have been making their rounds with different media entities to raise awareness and change people’s perspective of the prison and prison staff.

Speaking on Observer radio Helene De Silva, the first female Assistant Chief in Antigua and Barbuda said: “Prison officers are law enforcement officers. We enforce the laws in the prison…Prisoners are sent to the prison as a form of punishment, not for punishment. We not only enforce laws; we also help in rehabilitation.”

Rehabilitation Officer Akeema James explained, “We need to step away from the primitive mindset of what a prison should be. If we do the same thing and expect different results, it’s the basic definition of insanity. So now we are more of a correctional facility.”

Principal Officer Lyndon Russell described his job satisfaction: “One of the greatest things as a prison officer is when you’re on the street and an ex-inmate walks up to you and says, ‘Mr. Russell, I really want to thank you… I’m a better person all because you sat me down and put me on the right path to society’; that brings fulfillment.”

The position offers a starting salary of $3,000 plus benefits.

Applicants age 25-38 need a police record, resume, and at least three CXC subjects including English.

 Selected candidates will undergo a 10-week training program, with no prior experience required, though background checks will be conducted. Physical and medical assessments will also be performed as well as an entrance exam.

Interested individuals can submit applications directly to the prison, with additional information available by calling 462-1300 or 462-0503.