Some Nevada correctional officers say the situation at the Nevada State Prison began deteriorating when the new warden started cutting inmate programs -- turning a once-thriving facility into a warehouse for convicted felons.

Others say the breakdown came when Warden William Donat implemented new policies without consulting his staff -- making changes in sick leave, compensatory time and rules that have created a hostile environment.

But regardless of what they perceive as the catalyst, a number of correctional officers at the medium-security prison in Carson City say the disconnect between officers and the warden has created a dangerous situation that could result in people getting hurt.

Officers in the state employees union are planning a rally on Friday in front of the prison to protest conditions there.

Donat wouldn't comment, referring questions to Department of Corrections Director Glen Whorton. Whorton said staffing changes were made to bring the prison within its budget and changes to inmate activities were aimed at ensuring safety.

"We are responsible for the security of the institution," he said. "When it comes to security, that's not something that can be run by committee or be negotiated. You have to run them by common sense."

But officers say the changes have made the prison less secure by creating a rift between staff and the warden.

"This is about dignity and respect in the workplace," said John Carter, a correctional officer who has worked at the prison for 18 years and is a member of the State of Nevada Employees Association, the group organizing the picket. "He has alienated everybody."

Richard Cosgrove, an officer who works in the gun tower at the prison and who does not belong to the union, agreed the atmosphere at the prison has become unsafe.

He said tensions have risen since Donat took over in October and began eliminating programs established to give inmates goals, and something in which to invest, including gardens, a music program, an amphitheater and an inmate store where handmade goods were sold, Cosgrove said.

"The inmates were easier to get along with," Cosgrove said. "They had something to lose so they were on their best behavior. When you've got empathy between the inmates and the officers, that's a bad situation."