Tony McLaughlin honored as Correction Officer of the Year

TRENTON - The New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) recently honored Tony McLaughlin as one of five 2004 Correction Officer of the Year recipients. Officer McLaughlin is assigned to Female Secure Care and Intake Facility located on the JJC's Johnstone Campus in Bordentown.

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.

Officer McLaughlin was cited for his professionalism and dedication. Officer McLaughlin was recognized for the exemplary manner in which he performs his job and interacts with the juvenile residents and his colleagues.

"Through his professionalism on the job and his commitment to his community, Officer McLaughlin has proven to be a role model and mentor for the juvenile residents in JJC facilities as well for young people in his 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."

Officer McLaughlin joined the JJC in January 1996. He began his state service in March 1998 at the JJC's Juvenile Medium Security Facility. Officer McLaughlin also serves as a PBA Local 367 Union Representative for the officers of the Johnstone Campus and is currently the acting Institutional Vice President. He is also active in his community coaching midget football.

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.

The award is given in conjunction with a proclamation issued by New Jersey Governor James E. McGreevey declaring the week of May 3-7 as "Correctional Officer Appreciation Week". The proclamation recognizes the men and women who uphold justice and keep New Jersey's communities safe through their dedication and experience.

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