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| Union Officials Ask for Director Replacement |
| By Associated Press |
| Published: 12/26/2005 |
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A labor union group is urging Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack to replace the state's Department of Corrections Director Gary Maynard. In a letter to Vilsack released last week, the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees Council 61 outlined concerns about recent escapes from the Iowa State Penitentiary in Fort Madison. The letter, signed by Council 61 President Danny Homan, said the union members have no confidence in Maynard "to bring correctional workers together in a cohesive manner." Vilsack's spokeswoman said she could not confirm whether Vilsack received the letter. The group -- which represents about 20,000 state workers, including prison staff -- is also concerned with low employee morale at state prisons. The letter states that Maynard has not tried to assure prison staff that they followed procedure prior to the escape of two inmates on Nov. 14. "In fact they feel they are being treated like it is their fault," the letter stated. Joseph Legendre, 27, who is serving 15 years to life for kidnapping and attempted murder, and Martin Moon, 34, serving a life sentence for murder, were caught days after they escaped. Vilsack blamed a series of security lapses for the escape. He replaced warden Ken Burger and disciplined seven other employees. The letter to Vilsack stated that Maynard "has made no effort to shoulder the blame for recent problems in the prison system and instead has reflected away responsibility to you and others. ... We ask that you consider replacing Mr. Maynard for the duration of your term." Maynard was not in the office late Friday afternoon. Fred Scaletta, the department's spokesman, said he was unaware of the letter and had no comment. |
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