CRANSTON, R.I. – September 8, 2006 – A.T. Wall, II, director of the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, has recognized two Correctional Officers at the Intake Service Center for their heroic off duty actions on August 24, 2006. In two separate incidents, Ralph Tundis of Cranston, a Correctional Officer since 1990, and James Leduc of Chepachet, a Correctional Officer since 1991, demonstrated character, professionalism, and a commitment to public safety by responding to civilians in need.
Officer Leduc was traveling north on Rte. 295 when he observed a crushed vehicle in the median. Arriving prior to any emergency vehicles, he removed the female passenger from the smoking car. At the passenger’s urging, he then located her mother about 30 yards from the car. Realizing she had been severely injured, he began to treat her for shock and comfort her, covering her with his Department jacket. He and another civilian stayed with the victims until rescue personnel came on the scene, assisting with first aid prior to transport.
Officer Tundis was traveling on the New London Turnkpike when he observed an individual in a truck having a seizure. He took the man’s keys, called 911, and waited with him and another civilian until the rescue arrived.
“Were it not for the off duty actions of these two officers, the outcome for three civilians in crisis might have been very different,” notes Director Wall. “They have both demonstrated their commitment to the high standards of conduct we expect from our employees.”
It is an interesting coincidence that both officers work on the 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. shift at the Intake Service Center and both responded to emergency situations on the same day while off duty.
There are over 800 Correctional Officers employed by the Department of Corrections. Final interviews are now being conducted for a class of 80 new Officers who will enter the Training Academy in October.