The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services launched its emergency response plan following extensive roof damage to two housing units at the Nebraska State Penitentiary during Saturday morning’s severe thunderstorm.
You can see video of the damage by clicking here.
The storm impacted two dormitory-style housing units, which housed 387 incarcerated individuals. Staff moved 250 individuals to the gym and other available housing at NSP. The remaining 137 individuals were relocated to gyms at the Omaha Correctional Center and the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution.
“In corrections, we train for the unexpected,” says Director Rob Jeffreys. “The team at NSP and across NDCS came together quickly and immediately worked to make sure everyone was safe during and after this natural disaster.”
Jeffreys says while many of their staff sustained damage to their own homes, they still showed up to work. “This weekend was a testament to the team’s commitment to the NDCS mission, to keep people safe.”
Contractors will begin identifying the extent of damage on Monday. Initial internal estimates indicate repairs will take at least one month. You can see video of the damage by clicking here. Information for family and friends of impacted individuals can be found by clicking here
(Photos: Department of Corrections)