Cumberland Times News
CUMBERLAND — Allegany County Detention Center has honored 6 1/2-year Correctional Officer Daniel Beal as its Officer of the Year 2014, according to Sheriff Craig A. Robertson.
Beal began his career on July 21, 2008. He is currently assigned to the daylight shift and covers all posts including housing units, control room, transportation and rover.
In day-to-day communications with inmates, Beal practices the epitome of interpersonal communication skills, a trait highly revered in direct supervision institutions. He practices the utmost level of being fair, firm and impartial at all times, Robertson said.
Beal has an ability to speak to inmates on a level they understand without compromising respect. He always recognizes the difference between minor and serious rule violations as well as occasional and repeat violators and takes progressive corrective action accordingly. In addition, he exhibits the maximum amount of patience and calmness in dealing with inmates and their problems, which includes issues between inmates and in situations where an inmate may have a grievance concerning facility issues, according to the sheriff.
In communications with co-workers and support staff, Beal refrains from criticizing others and serves as a mentor to all. He is able to use casual conversation to promote harmonious relations in the facility that may have otherwise escalated. He smiles often and his good nature is a welcome breath of fresh air in an otherwise stressful environment. In addition, he is able to work any post and complete any task as assigned without complaint.
Beal suffered a non-work-related injury and when he returned to work, his wish was to attempt the agency’s yearly physical fitness assessment along with other staff. He chose to set an example to others who may struggle with testing and successfully completed testing, inspiring many people in the process. This is a testament to not only his work ethics but his desire to reach personal goals as well.
Beal is dependable, flexible and a very valuable asset to the facility, the sheriff said. “He sets a high standard for others to follow and we are honored to distinguish him as the Allegany County Detention Center Officer of the Year,” Robertson said.