DOC responds to post-hostage panel recommendations The Associated Press PHOENIX - The Department of Corrections has implemented or otherwise responded to all 69 recommendations made by a governor's panel in the wake of a 15-day prison hostage standoff, officials said Wednesday. Appearing before the governor's blue ribbon panel, DOC Director Dora Schriro said the department is focusing on the basics. "We are only as strong as our weakest officer," she said. At Arizona State Prison Complex-Lewis, where two officers were taken hostage in a guard tower by a pair of inmates, all officers are being retested on security protocols. "First, you have enforce a policy to see if people understand the policy and will follow it," said Ernie Trujillo, the new warden at the Lewis prison. The governor's panel concluded in March that long-term problems at the prison contributed to the standoff. Among the most serious problems noted were: complacency, inexperience, lack of professionalism, inadequate staffing, vague security procedures, poor pay for guards and bad architectural design. On Jan. 18, inmates Ricky Wassenaar and Steven Coy took two corrections officers hostage in a tower. Officer Jason Auch was released Jan. 24, while Officer Lois Fraley was held until Feb. 1 when the inmates surrendered. Coy has pleaded guilty to a host of charges associated with the standoff including sexual assault and kidnapping. Coy awaits trial. Return To Latest News