Miami, FL: Two Florida Corrections Officers were terminated following the release of a widely circulated video depicting one of them striking an inmate. According to the Florida Department of Corrections, the officers are currently under criminal investigation.
Over 11,000 individuals have viewed the video that was reportedly filmed inside Hamilton Correctional Institute after it was shared on social media last Friday.
“It is disheartening to witness the mistreatment of individuals by their fellow human beings, regardless of the circumstances,” expressed Denise Rock, executive director of Florida Cares Charity.
A video captures the interaction between two corrections officers and an inmate. One of those officers is captured on video slapping the inmate not once, but twice. The Florida Department of Corrections has announced that the officers have been terminated, according to a statement.
FDC also mentioned that both individuals are currently being investigated by FDC’s Office of Inspector General for potential criminal activity.
Body cameras are not worn by Florida corrections officers. A bill has been filed this year to establish a pilot program at Lowell Correctional Institution. Despite receiving bipartisan support in the legislature, it appears that the bill will not be progressing any further.
According to Florida Cares, Hamilton Correctional Institution is among the numerous prisons that have enlisted the assistance of National Guard members to address staffing shortages.
Governor Ron DeSantis is requesting state lawmakers to reduce over 1,000 positions. That involves reducing the workforce by 520 individuals in the Department of Corrections.