Officers praised for quick thinking at Capricornia Correctional Centre

Officers from Capricornia Correctional Centre have been praised for their quick thinking in detaining a low security prisoner who wandered into a restricted area between the high and low security areas of the prison today.

The prisoner, who appeared to be disorientated, was located on a service road on the prison reserve near the low security farm at about 1pm by a Delta Unit officer, who challenged him. Another officer who was driving past stopped to provide assistance.

The prisoner made an attempt to run towards the road, pursued by one officer on foot and another in a vehicle.

He was quickly restrained and returned to the high security prison, where he demonstrated heightened behaviour. After a health evaluation, he was transported to hospital for assessment.

Commissioner Peter Martin said the officers responded professionally and effectively to restrain the prisoner and prevent him absconding.

“Our officers work in highly dynamic environments, dealing with some of the most challenging and complex members of society.

“Today’s incident shows how important our officers are on the front line of public safety.

“Every day they work to keep the community safe by containing and rehabilitating prisoners and offenders. I’d like to thank the officers involved in resolving this incident quickly and safely,” Commissioner Martin said.