About the Rhode Island Department of Corrections

Mission Statement

The mission of RIDOC is to maintain a safe and secure correctional system that prioritizes the well-being of staff, incarcerated individuals, and the community. We strive to achieve this by promoting a respectful work environment, utilizing data-driven practices to guide decisions, and offering a wide range of programs to facilitate successful reintegration into the community and reduce recidivism.

Our Commitment

The RIDOC is committed to:

• Managing those entrusted to our care in a manner consistent with public safety.
• Upholding the highest ethical and professional standards is fundamental to the success of the Department.
• Being responsible and accountable to members of the community.
• Making available, to the greatest extent possible, programs and services that offer incarcerated individuals the opportunity to improve their education, health, interpersonal, and vocational skills and encourage acceptance of responsibility for their past behavior.

The job of a correctional professional is difficult and often, “thankless.” The RIDOC staff is committed to protecting and preparing as core principles of our mission. Their dedication, hard work, and perseverance of those incarcerated make our communities safer. 

Core Values

Accountability

WE are responsible and transparent to the public, ourselves, and those in our care. Integrity

WE are true to our ethical standards in all circumstances.

Respect

WE nurture an inclusive environment where the perspectives of employees, the public, and those in our care are considered and valued.

Compassion

WE strive to understand one another's circumstances and act accordingly. Correctional Excellence

WE are leaders in corrections through employing best practices, ensuring optimal performance, and commitment to our values.

Communication

WE seek to foster a spirit of teamwork, unity, and dedication.

Collaboration

WE enhance public safety and rehabilitation through cooperation, open communication, and partnerships with law enforcement, governmental entities, human services agencies, community leaders, and members of faith-based organizations.

Growth

WE shall provide staff with opportunities for personal and professional growth through staff development, recognition of staff achievements, and encouragement.

Diversity

WE actively strive to maintain a diverse and culturally aware workforce. Safety

WE honor those who advance safety for all. We shall maintain safe, secure, orderly, constitutional, and humane correctional environments.

Vision and Beliefs

To unite staff and the community in developing a premier correctional organization where safety is vital and pathways to successful community reintegration are common. All RIDOC values are shaped by the department’s primary mission, as set forth in the mission statement. Rehabilitating and reintegrating justice-involved individuals as members of society is essential to reducing crime and ensuring safe communities. These principles form the foundation for policy, allocation of resources, establishment of priorities, case management decisions, organizational structure, and future initiatives.