Correction Officer of the Year and Reform Initiatives Spotlight Niagara County Jail

The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office has been recognized on a state level for its commitment to correctional excellence and rehabilitation efforts within its jail facility.

During the New York State Sheriff’s Institute’s annual gathering in Albany this past January, two distinct honors were awarded: one to Correction Officer Scott Mendola, who was named Correction Officer of the Year, and the second to the Niagara County Jail, which received the Innovative Program Award for its pioneering rehabilitative initiatives.

Sheriff Michael Filicetti emphasized that Mendola’s award reflects the consistent quality of his service over the years, not a singular act.

Mendola’s efforts in peer support and mental wellness have not gone unnoticed. He plays a pivotal role in both the Peer-to-Peer Support Program and Crisis Intervention Training (CIT).

These programs aim to support the mental health of officers and provide de-escalation tools to handle crises within the jail setting.

Beyond his work inside the facility, Mendola is also active in the community, supporting youth through programs like DARE and ALL-STAR in local schools.

Meanwhile, the Niagara County Jail itself was commended for developing a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at helping incarcerated individuals gain skills, support, and structure necessary for reintegration into society.

A standout among these is the Pawsitive for Heroes program, which is a partnership that trains service dogs for military veterans.

Launched in 2013, the program places dogs with inmates for roughly ten months during which the animals receive specialized training.

The facility also works closely with Good News Jail and Prison Ministry.

This initiative ensures that inmates have access to religious services and spiritual counseling and supports re-entry through assistance with housing and addiction recovery services.

The BestSelf Recovery Transition Services program provides support for inmates struggling with substance use disorders.

Staff offer education, peer counseling, and post-release planning including referrals for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), job training, and housing support.

One of the most forward-thinking initiatives is a college education program in partnership with SUNY Niagara allowing inmates to take credit-bearing college courses free of charge.

These academic offerings began in 2023 and are aimed at equipping individuals with the qualifications they need for future employment.

Additionally, Orleans/Niagara BOCES has provided vocational training, certifications, and job placement support for years.

It was one of the first programs in the state to introduce internet-based learning within a jail facility.

Correction Officer of the Year and Reform Initiatives Spotlight Niagara County Jail