East Central Reporter

State Representative Adam Niemerg, a Republican from Dieterich, has arranged to meet with officials from the Department of Corrections (DOC) to discuss safety concerns raised by prison guards and staff in his district. The focus is on the increasing threats posed by illegal drugs and assaults on correctional officers. Niemerg, along with Senator Chapin Rose, plans to visit the Robinson and Lawrence Correctional Facilities to better understand the working conditions faced by employees.

“This situation has been brought to my attention by multiple DOC employees and I have been in contact with retired and active employees to reach a solution and fix these problems,” stated Rep. Niemerg. He further emphasized his intent to tour the facilities alongside Senator Rose and extended an invitation to Governor Pritzker to join them in addressing these pressing issues.

On October 17, Illinois correctional workers staged informational pickets across state prisons, advocating for improved safety measures. These prisons are managed by the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), which reports directly to the Governor's office. The protests highlighted ongoing concerns regarding threats against prison staff.

Attention has also been drawn towards allegations of controlled substances being smuggled into prisons, potentially endangering lives. Reports suggest that visitors may be involved in bringing these substances during visits or through mail.

“The Governor and prison authorities have the obligation and responsibility to keep Illinois correctional centers safe for the people who work in them,” added Rep. Niemerg. He pointed out that there are 46 facilities within the IDOC system, including five maximum security prisons such as Robinson Correctional and Lawrence Correctional Centers located in his district.

Representative Niemerg encourages anyone with additional information on this issue to contact his district office at 217-813-6036.