SOMETIMES THE BIG DOGS GET BIT TOO

by Bob Walsh

Back in April two guests of the state of Wisconsin beat feet from the Columbia Correctional Institution in Portage, WI.  The DOC Office of Internal Affairs has finally completed its investigation into the mess, comprised of a total of 13 staff investigations and nearly 100 interviews.

Two prisoners, John Newman, 37, and Thomas Deering, 46, escaped by simply climbing over two security fences.  They were caught the next day at a homeless shelter in Illinois.  

Holly Zimdahl, a kitchen worker at the prison, was charged with aiding in the escape.  Seven staff members were fired, one was suspended for five days without pay.  

Warden Susan Novak has resigned.

Deputy Warden Lucas Weber is no longer with the DOC, it is unclear if he resigned or was sacked.

Brian Gustke, Security director, is no longer with the DOC.  It is unclear if he resigned or was sacked.

Kevin Boodry, guard supervisor, resigned.

Holly Zimdahl resigned.

Of the eight persons who were fired six had permanent civil service status and are eligible to appeal their dismissals.

DOC Secretary Kevin Carr asserted the results of the investigation "reflect a combination of performance failures and long-standing, systematic issues" relating to security of the institution.