West Virginia Governor Jim Justice approved the termination of multiple Corrections Academy trainees after a photograph surfaced showing them appearing to give a Nazi salute.
The photograph, which was released earlier in December 2019 by the West Virginia Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety, depicted more than 30 trainees from Basic Training Class 18 with their arms raised in a salute. Above the group, the caption “Hail Byrd!” was visible, referencing the trainees’ instructor.
Prior to the image’s public release, Jeff Sandy, the agency’s secretary, circulated a memo condemning the image as “distasteful, hurtful, disturbing, highly insensitive, and completely inappropriate.” Sandy further stated that the image “betrays the professionalism I have seen time and time again displayed and practiced by our brave correctional employees.”
Following the photo’s release, initial disciplinary actions included the firing of two training instructors and one cadet. Additionally, 34 other employees, including the trainees seen in the photo, were suspended without pay. Now, acting on Sandy’s recommendation, Governor Justice has authorized the termination of all trainees involved in the Nazi-like salute.
Multiple individuals have faced termination or suspension due to the photograph showing corrections trainees appearing to perform a Nazi salute. (West Virginia Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety)
Justice also approved the termination of an Academy staff member who failed to report the photo. Furthermore, four instructors who reportedly saw the photo but did not report its content were suspended without pay, according to Fox News.
“As I said from the beginning, I condemn the photo of Basic Training Class 18 in the strongest possible terms,” Justice stated in a release from his office. “I also said that this act needed to result in real consequences — terminations and dismissals. This kind of behavior will not be tolerated on my watch in any agency of State government.” The governor’s decisive action underscores the state’s commitment to upholding professional standards and condemning inappropriate behavior within its agencies. This incident also highlights the importance of leadership in maintaining ethical conduct and accountability among state employees. The swift response from Governor Justice and Secretary Sandy sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated and that those responsible will be held accountable. This situation serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing training and education to ensure that all state employees understand and adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct.
This incident also raises questions about the training provided to corrections academy trainees and the oversight mechanisms in place to prevent such incidents from occurring. A thorough review of the academy’s curriculum and procedures may be necessary to identify any gaps or weaknesses that need to be addressed. Furthermore, it is essential to foster a culture of accountability and ethical behavior within the corrections system to prevent future incidents of this nature. The actions taken by Governor Justice and Secretary Sandy demonstrate a commitment to addressing this issue and ensuring that the West Virginia Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety maintains the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.