He Gets It Done David Wisdom, Val Verde Correctional Facility fficer Barton began his career at Val Verde Correctional Facility on opening day January 15, 2001. He worked as a picket officer and rover in various housing units until July of 2003 at which time Officer Barton was assigned to the front lobby desk and has been there to this day.
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“Mr. Shake and Bake” is what Officer Barton is lovingly referred to by his fellow employees, because he is always moving, always checking everything, always doing something useful. Constantly checking the visiting area for contraband, Officer Barton has successfully confiscated it on several occasions. In addition to screening guests, receiving mail, processing incoming UPS shipments, he cleans the glass doors and windows and takes care of the plants in the front lobby. He also turns on the sprinklers at 6 a.m. to water the lawn, flowers and trees all of which presents a pleasant appearance to visitors. “He is dependable, effective, courteous, professional and always friendly,” stated Officer Barton’s supervisor. Although he is all of these things, do not let his friendliness fool you into trying to sneak something past him, because as several people in the past can testify, that is a really quick way to become a guest of this facility. Officer Barton receives approximately 20 federal attorneys and probation officers on a daily basis. He must sign them in, find
their clients, get them into the interview rooms (usually in less than fifteen minutes), record their activities, and then when finished, get them out in an orderly manner. Over the years, Officer Barton has received numerous awards from various law enforcement agencies, three Officer of the Month Awards and Officer of the Year Awards. Recently he received an award for professionalism and competency, presented by Federal Attorney Michael Bagley representing the Del Rio Division of Federal Attorneys. Pictured left with Officer Barton.
Henry Walker is NENMDF Volunteer of the Year Linda Quintana, Northeast New Mexico Detention Facility
H
enry Walker has been named Northeast New Mexico Detention Facility’s (NENMDF) Volunteer of the Year for 2010. Mr. Walker and other members of his congregation, Jehovah’s Witnesses, have been conducting services and studies twice a week since the facility opened. His group currently consists of five volunteers. “Mr. Walker, as overseer for the group, always makes sure that someone comes
in and provides needed materials to the inmates they work with,” said Deacon P. Luis Montoya, NENMDF’s Chaplain. “Our facility depends very much on our volunteers to help us with the different groups.”
Jehovah’s Witnesses. NENMDF has issued an open invitation to all church groups to work as volunteers to help the inmates in their spiritual walk. Anyone interested in doing so may contact Chaplain Montoya at the facility.
At present there are volunteers representing the Assembly of God, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the Clayton Gospel Church, the Texline Mennonite Community as well as
NENMDF Volunteer of the Year Henry Walker (center) with (L-R) Dan Hutchison, Therapeutic Community Director and volunteer trainer; Warden Tim Hatch; Chaplain, Deacon P. Luis Montoya; and Assistant Warden of Programs Lynnwood Baade. Photo courtesy of NENMDF.
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