Zachariah Silva
Las Cruces,NM
Summary
Dedicated Correctional Officer with NMCD, skilled in inmate supervision and emergency response. Successfully implemented safety protocols, enhancing facility security and reducing contraband incidents. Known for strong conflict resolution and communication skills, fostering a secure environment while mentoring new staff. Committed to maintaining compliance with regulations and promoting inmate welfare.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Correctional Officer
NMCD
Las Cruces, NM
01.2005 - 11.2025
- Monitored inmate behavior to ensure safety and compliance with facility regulations.
- Conducted regular security checks to identify and mitigate potential threats within the facility.
- Assisted in emergency response procedures, maintaining calm and order during critical incidents.
- Documented daily activities and incidents accurately in logs for legal compliance and review.
- Collaborated with team members to develop strategies for conflict resolution among inmates.
- Trained new officers on operational protocols and best practices for maintaining security.
- Led shift briefings to communicate updates, policies, and expectations among staff members.
- Implemented enhanced safety measures, contributing to overall improvements in facility operations.
- Managed high-risk situations with professionalism and composure, ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
- Searched cells of inmates to identify and confiscate contraband and other prohibited items.
- Maintained inmate safety through vigilant monitoring of behavior and swift intervention during conflicts.
- Reduced instances of contraband by thoroughly searching inmates, cells, and common areas.
- Observed and supervised inmates throughout visits, meal time, recreation, phone calls, and showers.
- Escorted inmates to and from cells, court, hospitals, and medical appointments.
- Conducted routine and emergency head counts.
- Assisted in the training of new correctional officers, providing guidance on best practices and procedures.
- Prepared, processed and maintained forms, reports, logs, records, and activity journals.
- Collaborated with fellow officers to maintain a secure environment for staff, visitors, and inmates.
- Prevented escapes by diligently inspecting perimeters, doors, windows, gates, fences, and other access points throughout the prison complex regularly.
- Tracked inmates through head counts, visitor logs, and scheduled activities.
- Maintained accurate records of inmate incidents or infractions using electronic databases or written logs as required.
- Improved communication between staff members by participating in daily briefings and sharing critical information about inmate activities.
- Implemented effective emergency response plans during crises situations, minimizing harm to staff and inmates.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies governing correctional facilities.
- Enhanced facility security by conducting regular inspections and addressing potential risks.
- Contributed to a positive work culture among colleagues by utilizing effective communication skills both verbally and in writing.
- Conducted efficient inmate transfers, adhering to strict security protocols while maintaining order and control throughout the process.
- Monitored visitation sessions to ensure compliance with established guidelines and maintain facility security.
- Observed behavior of residents individually and in groups.
- Completed intake paperwork, fingerprints, and searches.
- Assisted medical staff in distributing medications to inmates efficiently while securely handling sensitive materials.
- Demonstrated cultural sensitivity when interacting with diverse populations within the correctional setting, promoting an inclusive environment for all individuals present.
- Supported mental health initiatives for inmates by connecting them with appropriate resources and services within the facility.
- Participated in ongoing professional development courses focused on understanding gang dynamics within prison settings to better identify and manage potential threats.
- Ensured security of facility perimeter by conducting routine patrols.
- Contributed to policy development, ensuring alignment with best practices in corrections management.
- Maintained detailed records of inmate behavior and activity, contributing to facility security.
- Coordinated with law enforcement agencies to ensure smooth transfer of inmates.
- Monitored surveillance equipment to detect and prevent unauthorized activities.
- Improved compliance with state and federal regulations by updating and enforcing facility policies.
- Facilitated effective emergency response drills, preparing staff for potential crises.
- Promoted inmate welfare by monitoring and addressing health concerns promptly.
- Bolstered team morale and cooperation through effective leadership and communication.
- Mitigated potential security breaches with vigilant contraband detection practices.
- Enforced rules and regulations to maintain order among inmates.
- Responded to emergency situations and de-escalated hostile confrontations.
- Conducted security checks of inmates and living areas.
- Prepared reports to document incidents and violations.
- Made rounds at specified intervals and conducted head counts and roll calls.
- Supervised inmates during meals, recreation and other activities.
- Documented inmate behavior and activities in logbooks.
- Transported inmates to and from court hearings, medical appointments and other locations.
- Investigated and responded to incidents of inmate misconduct.
- Assisted in intake and release of inmates.
- Provided assistance and guidance to inmates regarding daily activities.
- Built solid relationships with staff and residents to keep institution safe and secure.
- Responded to inquiries from inmates and other members of public.
- Administered drug tests to inmates.
Education
High School Diploma -
Ruidoso High School
Ruidoso, NMSkills
Inmate supervision
Emergency response
Conflict resolution
Security monitoring
Incident documentation
Policy compliance
Training and mentoring
Safety protocols
Risk assessment
Contraband detection
Team collaboration
Communication skills
Behavioral observation
First aid training
Correctional facility procedures
Policy enforcement
Restraint techniques
Inmate monitoring
Safety and security enforcement
Self-defense tactics
Search and seizure procedures
Observation
Surveillance
Contraband seizure
Trained in defensive tactics
Stress tolerance
Facility security
Weapons training
Prisoner transport
CCTV monitoring
Emergency management
Cultural sensitivity
Staff management
File and record maintenance
Evidence preservation
Languages
English
Professional Working
Timeline
Correctional Officer
NMCD
01.2005 - 11.2025
High School Diploma -
Ruidoso High School