Correction Officer Rashiame Clark honored as Correction Officer of the Year

TRENTON - The New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) recently honored Rashiame Clark as one of five 2003 Correction Officer of the Year recipients. Officer Clark is employed at the Juvenile Reception and Assessment Center (JRAC) in Bordentown, New Jersey. All male juveniles committed to the JJC are assessed at this facility in order to determine the most appropriate long term placement in the variety of programs offered by the JJC. JRAC houses approximately 150 juvenile residents.

Senior Correction Officer Clark was cited for his professionalism and dedication. His community involvement was also recognized.

"Officer Clark has served the JJC since 1999. Through his professionalism on the job and his commitment to his community, Officer Clark 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."

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.

The award is given in conjunction with a proclamation issued by New Jersey Governor James E. McGreevey declaring the week of May 5-9 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