Beverly Eaves Perdue
Governor

Alvin W. Keller Jr.
Secretary

North Carolina Department of Correction

Statement from Secretary Alvin Keller regarding investigation
at Lanesboro Correctional Institution

Several weeks ago, I became aware of an incident at Lanesboro Correctional Institution where excessive use of pepper spray on an inmate was alleged and we began an immediate review and subsequent investigation of that incident.

 Since then, we have received additional allegations about activities at the prison that require investigation. 

 While this expanded investigation proceeds, Lanesboro’s administrator and its assistant superintendent for custody and operations have been removed from their duties at Lanesboro.  We have named Superintendent Richard Neely of Charlotte Correctional Center as the acting administrator at Lanesboro.

 This agency’s job is to protect the public safety and the safety of inmates and employees in our facilities.  I will not tolerate anyone who operates outside of established policies and procedures and puts that safety at risk. 

 Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken at the conclusion of this investigation, if warranted.

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North Carolina Department of Correction
Public Information Office     4202 Mail Service Center     Raleigh NC 27699-4202
Phone (919) 716-3700      Fax: (919) 716-3795     www.doc.state.nc.us