On September 7th, 2008 at approximately 6:30 PM, something quite serious occurred within cellhouse 2H or within the confines of the prison. A complete prison lockdown was ordered. Inmates are being served in their cells by disgruntled Correctional Officers (COs)forced to work overtime. The kitchen staff headed by Lisa Palomino is being tapped to feed approximately 1300 inmates. The lack of offender help has seriously affected the quality and quantity of portions being served the prison population. On September 11th, inmates were served a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for breakfast. No juice, coffee or milk was provided.

Just three weeks earlier, the same cellhouse reported positive urine samples in 12+ inmates. Bent County Administrators are keeping mum on how the drugs reached the inmates. Word has leaked out that a female guard was responsible for bringing in the contraband.

In an attempt to secure the prison, the Correction Corporation of America installed a security system used to detect metal and/or organic material being brought into the prison. Larry Cox, head of security was observed training COs to use the machine. However, subsequent use of the machine on peers, revealed that COs are not using the machine to check for organic material containing drugs. Additionally, employees pockets, ears, mouths, hair, open containers containing beverages and food are not examined for the contraband.

Prison officials are not saying how long the lock down will remain in effect. Anyone knowing more information about the cause for the lock down is encouraged to post it here at this sight.