A formerly incarcerated woman recently wrote an email to senior PDP leadership providing details of her recent ten-day incarceration at the Philadelphia Industrial Correctional Center (PICC). Specifically, she mentioned four Correctional Officers — Danyell Washington, Erica Larry, Shillo Phillip, and Jisha Robby — and detailed how these officers exhibited exceptional professionalism and humanity. The letter praised the officers’ compassion, dignity, and fairness in their dealings with all inmates on the unit. Her thoughtful message, a rare first-hand account of gratitude from someone in our custody, speaks volumes about the character and commitment of these officers and the standard they set for our department. It dispels the negative stereotypes often associated with correctional professionals and shows the true nature of the quality and character of PDP staff.

I am writing to you in regards to a brief stay that I unfortunately underwent recently at your facility, PICC. I thought you deserved to know that during one of the absolute worst ten days of my life, I have nothing but great things to say about your staff, most recognizably four specific officers who were frequently assigned to my unit (A Unit). I want to recognize them individually because each of them have individually impacted my stay there by keeping me positive, making sure I was as comfortable as possible within the rules of the jail.

First, C/O Washington, who often escorted myself and others to places we had to go within the jail. That woman has such a great attitude and truly makes sure you do not feel looked down upon due to your situation. She has the upmost respect for every inmate she encounters and will answer your questions to her best ability by helping us to stay positive and hopeful for the future.

Next, C/O Larry, who was assigned to A Unit the majority of my stay. That woman is also extremely respectful to the inmates, she answers questions all day even if it means repeatedly answering the same ones over and over. She will make sure if an inmate is in need of something, they receive it if possible and when not possible she gives effort and explanation on the issue/situation. She speaks extremely well and caring to the inmates and always sticks to schedule. Inmates hold a high regard for her in the unit being as though she is so kind and helpful and patient with even the most unexpected situations. She is very respectful and professional and in return receives that recognition from the inmates on the unit more than almost any other guard I came across.

I thought you deserved to know that during one of the absolute worst ten days of my life, I have nothing but great things to say about your staff…

Next, C/O Phillip. He was one that I did not see as often, but when I did he was always kind. He was the ONLY male that I ever heard announcing his presence on the unit and before walking past our cell doors. This was a major recognition from not only myself but other inmates who again, because they were shown respect by him, they returned it and listened to him promptly and unquestionably. He greeted every inmate as if we were saying, “hello, good morning,” to a stranger, but that small gesture made me feel safe and comfortable knowing he was on our unit.

Finally, C/O Robby. That woman is so beautiful on the inside and out. I have never met a more pleasant and patient person in my lifetime. She never ever complains. She is always helping someone with something: whether it be guiding them through a small bit of panic or anxiety, checking on someone who maybe slept an unusual amount of time, or helping show an inmate how to use the phones on the wall. This woman was such a strong individual and I felt great just being in her presence. She pays attention to the girls and honestly gets to know them on a deep-enough level to not get too personal with them, but yet to be able to tell if someone is acting or feeling a little bit out-of-character that day. She will say positive affirmations if she believes you need to hear it and I watched her light up so many of the inmates’ day in my short time there.

I hope this email makes its way to the correct person, as I sincerely wish to commend these officers for doing their job with pride and without prejudice or judgement. They each deserve the little bit of recognition this email provides and hopefully can speak volumes about setting examples for other potential future C/O’s that enter your department.

I appreciate your time on reading this and hope you have a blessed holiday.

Sincerely,

Redacted