When a correctional officer witnesses harassment, what should they do?

• A. Ignore it
• B. Report the harassment to ensure a safe work environment
• C. Confront the harasser publicly
• D. Discuss privately with a coworker only

Answer: (B)

Harassment harms safety, dignity, and trust in a corrections setting, so addressing it through formal channels is essential. The right action is to report the behavior through the proper reporting channels to trigger an official investigation and prompt intervention, protecting the person targeted and maintaining a safe work environment. When harassment occurs, note what happened with details like dates, times, exact statements or actions, and any witnesses, then bring this to a supervisor or the designated reporting system and follow up with the appropriate department (such as HR or internal affairs) as required. Taking harassment through proper processes helps ensure accountability and reduces ongoing risk for everyone. Ignoring it leaves harm unaddressed, confronting the harasser publicly can escalate danger, and discussing privately with a coworker only fails to activate protections, documentation, and systemic response.