LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Thirty years after the death of a state prison case manager killed in the line of duty, family members, coworkers and correctional officials gathered Thursday to honor her legacy and the lasting impact she has had on Ohio's prison system.
On Aug. 6, 1996, Bonita Haynes, a case manager at the Lima Correctional Institution, was killed by inmates while on duty. On the anniversary of her death, family, friends and state and local correctional officials came together to remember her life .
“The love, the remembrance that we participated in the day. It just shows how important of a legacy that she leaves behind. Her work will not be forgotten in the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction,” said Dr. Brian Haynes, Bonita Haynes' brother.
Haynes' death prompted changes throughout Ohio's correctional system aimed at improving employee safety. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction implemented a policy prohibiting staff from working alone and installed "man down" alarm systems to help prevent similar tragedies.
“Saying we'll never forget is more than a phrase. It is definitely a call to action. I think it's for all of us to show to the responsibility that as our new staff come in, they understand the sacrifices that were made for those that went ahead of them. It helps us as we shape policy, as we look at our procedures going forward. So when I say never forget, I I I definitely look at that as a call to action,” said Ed Banks, director of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.
The memorial ceremony was held at the Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution's Memorial Garden, a site employees pass each day as a reminder of the importance of safety while working inside the prison.
The memorial ceremony was held at the Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution's Memorial Garden
“Our staff face challenges every day, every shift, every minute that they're inside because they have to maintain high order while providing rehabilitative services, which our staff do a great job at. So, them passing by this memorial, day in and day out, shift after shift, is that constant reminder that at any time something tragic can happen. However, we work very very hard to make sure that our staff are well equipped, well prepared, and taken care of,” said Ryan Walters, warden of the Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution.
Haynes' legacy also continues through a scholarship established in her name. Since the program began in 2005, nearly 30 students have received scholarships, helping to carry her legacy forward for future generations.
