Delaware Department of Correction (DOC) Commissioner Perry Phelps announced today the decision to demolish the building at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center (JTVCC), known as C Building, which was the site of the February 1-2, 2017 inmate uprising and death of Lt. Steven Floyd, according to DOC Spokesman Jayme Gravell.
”Department of Correction officers and supervisors who went to work on February 1, 2017, or assisted in the response, have been reminded on a daily basis of the horrifying actions that happened on that day,” said Governor John Carney. “The building is a constant reminder of the senseless, brutal murder of one of one of DOC’s dedicated public servants – Lieutenant Floyd. To remove the building from the complex will aid in the mental and emotional health of officers who work at JTVCC every day. It’s the right thing to do.”
Commissioner Phelps said that as DOC continues to honor the sacrifice, courage and service of Lt. Floyd, demolishing C Building will demonstrate that JTVCC is moving forward and cultivating a new culture for the future. “The presence of C Building at JTVCC only serves as a constant reminder of the tragedy that occurred on February 1, 2017, that senselessly took the life of one of our family members” said Commissioner Phelps. “Demolishing the building will serve as a point forward in the healing process and enable the staff at JTVCC to become stronger and stronger as each new day passes.”
Warden Dana Metzger, who was named Warden of the facility last July said, “Lt. Floyd’s memory and selfless service are always with us. By tearing down C Building we continue to move JTVCC forward.”
The 12,700 square foot C Building was part of the original Level V correctional facility when it was constructed in 1971. It previously housed up to 135 medium-security inmates. It has been vacant since February 2, 2017. Inmates previously housed there have been moved to other correctional facilities.
With authorization and funding from the FY18 Bond Bill, DOC hired the Delaware office of engineering firm TetraTech to assess the cost to demolish C Building. DOC expects to start demolition this fall, with funding approved in the FY19 Bond Bill.
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