Correction Officer Patricia Payton honored as Correction Officer of the Year

TRENTON - The New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) recently honored Patricia Payton as one of five 2003 Correction Officer of the Year recipients. Senior Correction Officer Payton is employed at the Juvenile Female Secure Care and Intake Facility in Bordentown, New Jersey. This facility is the State's only secure facility for female juveniles and houses approximately 50 residents.

Officer Payton was cited for her professionalism and dedication. Her community involvement was also recognized. She is active with local Girl Scout troops and coaches softball and cheerleading groups.

"Senior Correction Officer Patricia Payton has served the JJC since 1998. Through her professionalism on the job and her commitment to her community, she has proven to be a role model and mentor for the juvenile residents in JJC facilities as well for young people in her community," said Howard L. Beyer, Executive Director of the Juvenile Justice Commission. "The JJC is committed to realizing the potential of the youth in its care and helping them change the direction of their futures. Our dedicated and experienced correction officers play a critical role in fulfilling this mission."

The Juvenile Justice Commission employs approximately 400 highly trained correction officers. Each officer must complete an intensive training course at the JJC's Training Academy which not only includes physical training, CPR and written exercises, but teaches officers to communicate with youth and instructs staff on techniques to diffuse tense situations.

This award is bestowed annually upon one officer from each of the five secure juvenile facilities operated by the State of New Jersey. Recipients of this award are selected based on outstanding job performance, exemplary work records, and service to their communities.

For more information on the JJC, please visit www.njjjc.com