A Feb. 11, 2007, 60 Minutes report on the tragic death of inmate Timothy Souders at the Southern Michigan Correctional Facility in Jackson was a perfect example of news organization using tabloid techniques.  The reporter mixed up and sensationalized the facts giving viewers an unfair characterization of the correctional officer role in the incident.

Administrative and medical authorities are the only ones who can order a prisoner restrained.  CO’s follow their direction and their role is limited.  After investigation, it was people from the medical and administrative staff that received discipline and dismissal, not officers.

I have written 60 Minutes calling them on their misleading and unfair report.  I believe they owe the corrections officers in Jackson and throughout Michigan a public apology.