Delaware, Department of Correction (DOC) Commissioner Perry Phelps announced he will retire effective July 15 after a three-decade career that included a turnaround effort for a trouble prison system.
Phelps began his career with DOC in 1988 and was first assigned to the Multi-Purpose Criminal Justice Facility (Gander Hill) now known as Howard R. Young Correctional Institution in Wilmington.
He has served the State of Delaware in the capacity of Correctional Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Security Superintendent, Deputy Warden, Warden, Bureau Chief of Prisons and Deputy Commissioner. From 2005-2006,
Phelps worked for the Department of Services for Children, Youth, and their Families as the Deputy Director and Director of the Division of Services. Governor Carney nominated him as Commissioner on December 13, 2016 and he was confirmed by the Delaware Senate on January 18, 2017.
Following the death of corrections officer Lieutenant Steven Floyd during the riot at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center in Smyrna, Phelps led efforts to deal with the aftermath.
A release from the Correction Department stated his “achievements include significant investments and advancements in technology and security equipment, the addition of countless educational opportunities for all staff, additional programs and job training for inmates, and the creation of a Residential Treatment Unit for inmates with a mental health diagnosis. With support from his senior leadership and union representatives, Commissioner Phelps is responsible for the implementation of the career ladder for correctional staff, the substantial decrease in forced overtime, and an increased level of professionalism among the ranks.”
“When I joined the Department of Correction, I only expected to stay for two years. I thought I would use my experience as a stepping stone for another career. I discovered that DOC was a phenomenal place to fulfill my passion for public service said Phelps. “Serving in this role has been challenging and rewarding, but I consider it an honor and privilege. I will miss my DOC Family, but am very much looking forward to spending more time with my wife, children, and grandchildren.”
“Commissioner Phelps has served our state for more than three decades at the Department of corrections, working his way up from a correctional officer position to the Commissioner’s office,” said Governor John Carney. “He has led us through one of the toughest times in the Department’s history. On behalf of all Delawareans, I want to thank Commissioner Phelps for his service to our state.”
Carney had previously expressed concerns about the management of a contracted drug treatment program under the umbrella of the Correction Department. Phelps met with Carney regarding the program from Wilmington-based Connections that is now under scrutiny by the state Justice Department.
