Photos, videos: Agencies across the U.S. celebrate National Correctional Officers Week

From heartfelt thank-yous and musical tributes to proclamations and free meals, agencies across the country took to social media this week to recognize the work of correctional officers during National Correctional Officers Week.

Correctional officers are often the unsung heroes of public safety — working in high-stress environments to maintain order, ensure safety and support rehabilitation. Here’s a look at how agencies nationwide honored these professionals:

‘Thank you for doing a job that truly matters’

In California, the Placer County Sheriff’s Office released a video tribute expressing gratitude to its correctional staff.

“This week is National Correctional Officers Week — a time to recognize the challenging and essential work correctional officers do every day,” the agency shared. “Thank you for doing a job that truly matters.”

‘What we love about our job’

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office in Washington turned the spotlight on its jail staff, asking officers to share what they love most about their roles. The video captures the heart of the profession, with officers reflecting on the impact they make.

A celebration at Yankee Stadium

The New York City Department of Correction celebrated at Yankee Stadium, thanking the Yankees for helping usher in National Correctional Officers and Employees Week during a game against the Tampa Bay Rays. The agency also spotlighted its K-9 team for their ongoing efforts to prevent contraband from entering facilities.

The “three C’s” of corrections

In Florida, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office honored more than 200 detention officers and deputies in a video highlighting the “three C’s” of corrections: care, custody and control.

‘Bring hope to those we seek to help’

In Lexington, Kentucky, National Correctional Officers Week was marked by the unveiling of a public art installation titled The Birth of Hope outside the Fayette County Detention Center.

“Let this beautiful sculpture just outside our gate remind all that enter to serve in the Division of Community Corrections ‘That while we are together bound by duty, let us bring hope to those we seek to help,’” Division of Community Corrections Chief Scott Colvin said.

Created by Louisville sculptor Dave Caudill, the sculpture features a nest with multicolored flames held by three structural steel beams. It serves as both a symbolic and physical beacon for staff and community members passing along Old Frankfort Pike, a National Scenic Byway and one of Lexington’s most-traveled gateways.

Musical moments behind the walls

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office in New York brought back a unique tradition: the ROC City Concerts series. Musicians from the Eastman School and Rochester Philharmonic performed inside the jail, inspiring both staff and those incarcerated.

“Special thanks to Professor Elinor Freer and all of the performers for motivating and encouraging the attendees,” the agency posted.

Highlighting the impact

Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office in Minnesota acknowledged its 270-member jail team — both licensed and civilian — and the vital role they play in community safety.

‘What the public should know’

York County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina released a video in which detention officers shared what they wish the public knew about their work. Their responses revealed a side of the job that’s often overlooked.

State-level appreciation

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections emphasized the teamwork and range of roles within corrections — from security and medical to education and reentry.

“We pause to reflect on the contributions of the amazing people who work in corrections in Pennsylvania,” the department shared.

In Ohio, the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction honored the courage and professionalism of those working in both institutions and communities across the state.

The Michigan Department of Corrections also joined in the weeklong recognition, spotlighting their 2025 Correctional Officers of the Year from each facility in a series of social posts. The effort shines a light on individuals who go above and beyond in service and leadership.

‘The quiet professionals’

In Alabama, the Trussville Police Department paid tribute to correctional staff as “the quiet professionals” who keep the community safe behind the scenes.

“To our own correctional staff here at Trussville PD: thank you for your hard work, professionalism, and unwavering dedication,” the department wrote.

Saluting professionalism

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office in Florida highlighted the essential role of its detention deputies at the county jail.

“During National Correctional Officers’ Week, we salute our Pinellas County Jail detention deputies,” the agency shared. “Their unwavering professionalism ensures safety for all. Thank you for your essential service that protects both those in custody and our community.”

Words of encouragement

San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office in California announced a board resolution proclaiming the week in honor of correctional staff, encouraging the public to submit messages of appreciation that would be shared with the custody team.

In Florida, St. Johns County’s Board of County Commissioners recognized correctional officers during a commission meeting, while the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office spotlighted its custody deputies and support staff for maintaining safety at the Dambacher Detention Center.

Food, flags and fellowship

In Louisiana, the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office reflected on the history of National Correctional Officers Week, established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, and reaffirmed its mission of safety and service.

Maryland’s Prince George’s County Department of Corrections kicked off the week with the 33rd annual Wreath Laying Ceremony and Honor Guard Competition in Washington, D.C., paying tribute to the lives lost in service.

The New Mexico Corrections Department shared photos of Olive Garden meals delivered to off-site officers by leadership at the Penitentiary of New Mexico, courtesy of PNM medical staff.

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