Connecticut Office of Correction Ombudsman

The Connecticut Office of Correction Ombudsman was established to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness in the state's correctional system. Our office serves as an independent and impartial resource for individuals seeking assistance with issues related to the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC). Our mission is to investigate complaints, monitor conditions, and advocate for systemic reforms within the state's correctional facilities to ensure that the rights and well-being of incarcerated individuals are respected.

Authorizing Statute

The Connecticut Office of Correction Ombudsman was created in accordance with Public Act 22-18 which was enacted to enhance oversight and accountability within the correctional system. This statute authorizes the creation of an independent ombudsman office with the power to investigate complaints regarding the operation of the DOC, its policies, and the treatment of individuals within its custody.

The establishment of this office underscores Connecticut's commitment to promoting justice and fairness within its correctional facilities, ensuring that every individual incarcerated in the state has access to a neutral entity for assistance with grievances.

Duties of the Office

The Connecticut Office of Correction Ombudsman is responsible for a variety of important duties aimed at enhancing the operation of the correctional system and protecting the rights of incarcerated individuals. Our key responsibilities include:

1. Investigating Complaints: We receive, investigate, and resolve complaints from individuals incarcerated within Connecticut's correctional facilities. These complaints may involve issues related to medical care, disciplinary actions, staff conduct, access to legal services, and other concerns impacting the well-being of inmates.
2. Monitoring Conditions: The office monitors conditions within correctional facilities to ensure that they comply with state and federal laws and international human rights standards. This includes conducting site visits, reviewing reports, and assessing the overall treatment of incarcerated individuals.
3. Advocating for Systemic Reforms: The Ombudsman works to identify and advocate for systemic changes within the Department of Correction to improve conditions and ensure that policies are fair, just, and aligned with the rights of those incarcerated.
4. Ensuring Transparency: By providing independent oversight, the office promotes transparency in the operations of the Department of Correction and works to build trust between the DOC, the public, and the individuals it serves.
5. Providing Recommendations: Based on investigations and findings, the Ombudsman has the authority to make recommendations to the Governor, the legislature, and the Department of Correction to address identified issues and improve practices within the system. 

How to Contact the Office

We are here to help individuals who have concerns or complaints about the treatment they or others have experienced while incarcerated in Connecticut’s correctional facilities. If you or someone you know needs assistance or would like to file a complaint, there are several ways to reach us:

Email: You can contact the Office of the Ombudsman via email at Correction.Ombuds@ct.gov. 

Mailing Address: If you prefer to submit a complaint or inquiry by mail, please send your correspondence to:

Connecticut Office of Correction Ombudsman
55 Farmington Avenue, Suite 427
Hartford, CT 06105

Online Form: You can also submit complaints and inquiries via our online submission form.

About Interim Ombudsman DeVaughn Ward, Esq.

DeVaughn Ward, Esq. currently serves as the Interim Ombudsman for the Connecticut Office of the Correction Ombudsman, having been appointed to the role by Governor Ned Lamont on September 23, 2024.

With a strong commitment to justice and a passion for advocating for marginalized communities, DeVaughn brings extensive experience in legal advocacy and policy reform to the role. Before being appointed Interim Ombudsman, DeVaughn Ward worked as a civil rights and criminal defense attorney, where he focused on advocating for the rights of individuals in the criminal justice system.

DeVaughn is particularly proud of his work litigating cases involving the rights of incarcerated individuals, including a seven-figure class action settlement with the State of Connecticut to provide hepatitis C testing and treatment to incarcerated individuals. He also worked as a lawyer-lobbyist, advocating for reforms to improve fairness and equity in criminal justice system.

As Interim Ombudsman, Mr. Ward is committed to ensuring that the voices of incarcerated individuals are heard and that their rights are protected. He is dedicated to promoting greater transparency and accountability within the Department of Correction, working closely with legislators and other stakeholders to improve the state's correctional system.