A Conversation with Raye Carnes, Warden at the Liberty County Jail

West Caldwell, NJ March 23 -

How did you get involved in providing correctional services?

I graduated college with a B.S. Degree in Criminology and Corrections in 1990. I had completed an internship in juvenile probation during college and begin working with juveniles in a transitional living program after college, prior to working in corrections. In my 25 year career, I have had the opportunity to work in different states with both juvenile and adult populations, male and female populations and in jail and prison facilities. I have worked in the areas of programs and security, as well as public relations and marketing.

What is your favorite part about working with inmates?

Working with inmates is challenging as they always try to engineer situations to their advantage. I definitely believe that communicating with inmates effectively is a learned skill. We know that they are always testing us and at times everything becomes a game to them. Most of the time you know that when you are talking to them you have to decipher the information to determine what the real facts are. You can rarely take what they say at face value without analyzing the information first. Many times there are opportunities to provide positive feedback and information that can assist them to develop positive life skills. All of this adds up to the fact that there is never a dull moment in corrections. We say all the time that “you can’t make this stuff up.”

What are the challenges that womaen face working in corrections?

Although corrections is traditionally a male dominated field, the numbers support that women are currently playing a much larger role. Although, I haven’t forgotten the challenges that I have faced over the years, I have made a conscious effort not to focus on those things. I fully believe that just like men in working in corrections, if you are firm, fair and consistent, you will gain the respect of your staff and the inmate population. Every day is an opportunity to learn and grow in the field of corrections.

How do you maintain a great working atmosphere at your facility?

It is my goal to create an atmosphere where staff feel that they have a voice and I encourage them to openly communicate their concerns. I also encourage my staff to assist me in creating a resolution to problems and not to rely on me to come up with all the answers. I believe that women are more collaborative in their management styles than most men and I often solicit input from my staff when problem solving. Our employees are our most valuable resources and I am grateful for the team of leaders I have at my facility.