Ombudsperson - Correction

The State of Connecticut Office of Governmental Accountability is proud to offer a unique opportunity to join as the inaugural Correction Ombudsperson. In consultation with the Correction Advisory Committee, the Ombuds will establish the Office of the Correction Ombuds, hire and manage staff, and perform all Ombuds services as set forth in Section 2(a)(2) of Public Act 22-18.

YOUR ROLE

As an Ombudsperson you will play a pivotal part in upholding our commitment to justice and fairness. The Office will also educate the Governor, legislature, other government agencies, and the public through periodic reports, recommendations, proposed legislative or regulatory reforms, and other communications. The person appointed shall serve for an initial term of two years, and may be  reappointed to succeeding terms.

As an independent public office within the Connecticut Office of Governmental Accountability, the Office of the Correction Ombuds is responsible for exercising independent oversight over the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC) to secure and ensure the rights of persons in the custody of the DOC. 

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The Ombuds is expected to perform all “ombuds services". In addition, the Ombuds will perform the administrative duties required of the head of a State office. These duties are included in the Example of Duties section Below.

HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR STATE

Connecticut offers you a blend of professional advancement and a high-quality lifestyle. As a state we are renowned for our top-tier medical facilities and ample opportunities for career growth and development. Beyond professional prospects, Connecticut boasts a high standard of living, featuring safe communities, excellent schools, and a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities. This combination of professional excellence and a well-rounded lifestyle make Connecticut an appealing destination for those who want to thrive both in their careers and personal lives.

• The Advisory Committee will provide a ranked list of 3-5 candidates to the Governor for appointment, with the approval of the General Assembly. The Advisory Committee expects a candidate will be appointed and begin work in January 2025 or earlier. 
• The person appointed shall serve for an initial term of two years, and may be  reappointed to succeeding terms.
• Interested parties are encouraged to contact a member of the Correction Advisory Committee for further information. All of the members are identified on the Committee's website: Correction Advisory Committee - C G A - Connecticut General Assembly  

• Candidates who are offered and accept a position with the State of Connecticut are bound by the State Code of Ethics for Public Officials and State Employees which is available at www.ct.gov/ethics.

• In collaboration with the Office of Governmental Accountability and the Correction Advisory Committee, develop a budget for the Office of Correction Ombuds within appropriations provided by the Connecticut General Assembly and supplemented by private grants.
• Recruit and hire staff for the Office of the Correction Ombuds, including an Associate Correction Ombuds.
• Oversee the Office of Correction Ombuds, including training and management of staff and ensuring compliance with state and federal employment laws.
• ENGAGEMENT WITH CORRECTION ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND OTHER STATE OFFICES
• Develop and maintain relationships with Correction Advisory Committee, Office of the Governor, Department of Correction, Office of Government Accountability, and Joint Committee on the Judiciary. 
• Prepare and submit periodic reports to the Correction Advisory Committee summarizing activities of the Office of the Correction Ombuds, as required by statute and/or requested by the Correction Advisory Committee.
• Prepare and submit annual reports to the Joint Committee on the Judiciary  regarding conditions of confinement in the state’s correctional facilities and halfway houses. 

• Monitor and examine conditions of confinement within facilities operated by the Department of Correction and prepare reports as necessary to advance the wellbeing of those in custody. 
• Conduct scheduled and unscheduled inspections of Department of Correction facilities to examine and document conditions and services.
• Review and evaluate regulations, policies, and procedures implemented by Department of Correction and individual facilities. 
• Establish and maintain reporting system for purpose of gathering and collecting data pertaining to Department of Correction. 

• Develop procedures for receipt and investigation of complaints from incarcerated persons and their families or advocates concerning serious violations of individual rights and systemic issues within the Department of Correction.
• Investigate complaints and report findings and recommendations.
• Take all possible actions, including but not limited to, conducting programs of public education, undertaking legislative advocacy, making proposals for systemic reform, and (when necessary) taking formal legal action in order to secure and ensure the rights of persons in the custody of DOC.
• Identify trends and provide recommendations to Department of Correction and Correction Advisory Committee concerning root causes of systemic complaints.  

• Create and maintain a public website summarizing the activities of the Office of Correction Ombuds and making available reports, examinations, policy recommendations, etc.
• Keep abreast of developments and best practices in corrections nationwide and internationally.
• Work with the Department of Correction and Correction Advisory Committee to develop, implement, and amend regulations, administrative policies, and procedures to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness for incarcerated people.
• Where appropriate, recommend and advocate for legislative reforms as necessary to promote the rights and wellbeing of incarcerated persons. 
• Assist incarcerated people and their families in advocating for reforms necessary to improve the wellbeing of incarcerated people. 

• Act as an independent and confidential resource for incarcerated persons, their families, and Department of Correction staff, to resolve concerns and complaints.
• Develop and deliver training programs on complaint resolution, conflict management, and communication skills for Correction staff and incarcerated persons.
• Represent the Office of the Correction Ombuds at public meetings, forums, and conferences on issues related to prison conditions, treatment of incarcerated people, complaint resolution, conflict management, and any training materials or reports generated by the Correction Ombuds.

• Demonstrated interest and experience in advocating for the rights and wellbeing of incarcerated persons
• Significant leadership experience, with a preference for candidates with prior experience supervising teams 
• Experience in fact-gathering, investigations, examining systems, and conflict resolution
• Knowledge of state and federal laws concerning corrections and the rights of incarcerated persons
• Ability to marshal and analyze data and other information to inform policy recommendations
• Strong organizational skills, including ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, including ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences
• Demonstrated cultural responsiveness and experience serving individuals who have experienced mental-health challenges, trauma, and substance use disorder.