Donald Stolworthy, the Illinois Department of Corrections' acting director, said the state needs to upgrade its technology and methods to cut costs. | Contributed photo
Donald Stolworthy, the Illinois Department of Corrections' acting director, said the state needs to upgrade its technology and methods to cut costs. | Contributed photo
Donald Stolworthy, the Illinois Department of Corrections' (DOC) acting director, recently sent a memo to Gov. Bruce Rauner, identifying several problem areas within the state prison system.
Currently, the state spends an estimated $38,268 per inmate per year. For many years, Illinois Senate Republicans have sought reforms to reduce costs, improve safety and increase efficiency within the prison system.
Stolworthy, in the memo, lists several cost contributors that he said must be addressed to improve efficiency and accountability. He said he plans to outline a long-term strategy to push for positive change within the prison system.
Stolworthy also said DOC fails to pursue time- and money-saving technologies and relies on an outdated and inefficient system to track employee time and inventory.
The governor's recent budget proposal seeks an additional $65 million in 2016 to hire more prison guards to increase safety and reduce overtime.
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