THE report into the escape of maximum security prisoner Stephen Jamieson has recommended the resumption of 24-hour staffing to a tower at Goulburn Jail.
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The security review, undertaken by New Zealand’s Department of Corrections chief custodial officer Neil Beales, found Goulburn was “a well-run prison with good management practices however attention was required to some areas of physical and electronic security.”
The review looked at the adequacy of the prison’s infrastructure, particularly the segregation area, along with the state and use of electronic security including control room routines.
A number of operational areas, such as towers, and procedures and practices relating to general centre security and prisoner management, were also covered.
Prisoner and cell search procedures were further scrutinised by Mr Beales.
The review made a number of recommendations regarding the staffing of towers around the Complex’s Multi-Purpose Unit, upgrading some infrastructure, including additional razor wire along the jail’s perimeter wall, along with a review of security systems, installing additional fencing and improved CCTV coverage.
Based on the review’s recommendations, Corrective Services NSW has developed an action plan which is now being implemented.
Jamieson created international headlines when he escaped from the Goulburn Correctional Complex in August, allegedly breaking out of his segregation yard using little more than a hacksaw blade, mop handle, sheets and a pillow.
It prompted a 10-hour manhunt, featuring police helicopters and tracking dogs, which lasted until he was re-captured at 11pm in Pheasants Nest, after a high speed pursuit.
Jamieson is yet to enter a plea to charges of inmate escape lawful custody, possess offensive weapon/instrument in place of detention (a hacksaw blade), take conveyance without consent of owner, police pursuit - not stop - drive dangerously, being an unlicensed driver, being an unregistered driver and using an uninsured vehicle.
He is scheduled to reappear in Goulburn Local Court on November 11.
“Goulburn prison was built in the 1880s and is a challenge to keep secure as its systems need to be continually updated,” Minister for Corrections David Elliott said.
“This review has made valuable recommendations which are now being implemented.”
Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Peter Severin said work already completed includes permanent staffing of another guard tower, improved work practices such as more frequent monitoring of prisoners and infrastructure, as well as changes to CCTV coverage.
“I thank Mr Beales for his thorough review. These changes will ensure prison security meets community expectations,” Commissioner Severin said.
Member for Goulburn Pru Goward welcomed the improvements and said the security of prison staff and the Goulburn community is of paramount importance.
