I am writing in response to The Herald Mail's editorial of June 14, entitled, "Delegation must push DOC for some answers." I will not respond directly to any charges leveled by retiring Warden Joseph Sacchet. He spent 30 years performing public service to the citizens of Maryland and we wish him well in his retirement.
Your assertion that the Maryland Division of Correction "is in turmoil," is simply without merit. Under this administration, we have embarked on new initiatives to help us work more efficiently and maximize our resources to enhance public safety. These all are changes for the better. However, for most people, change is not easy.
As we persist in our efforts to develop Maryland's public safety system into one of the best in the nation, we also continue to foster meaningful dialogue between management and employees. I believe we are doing a good job in communicating with our employees and encouraging input from all quarters of my Department. On a related issue, I, along with members of my executive staff, have met with elected officials in Western Maryland and other parts of the state on many issues important to this department and its employees. The dialogue has been fruitful, and the exchange of information, on both sides, has been helpful. We look forward to continuing the dialogue on how best to enhance public safety in Maryland.