(BOP) - On June 23, 2025, BOP Director William K. Marshall III, and Deputy Director Joshua J. Smith, accompanied by senior BOP leadership, joined senior Department of Justice (DOJ) officials and key members of the Correctional Leaders Association (CLA) at DOJ headquarters for an informal but impactful roundtable discussion focused on shared challenges across corrections systems and opportunities for collaboration.
Moderated by Associate Deputy Attorney General Kendra Wharton, the hour-long session welcomed members of the CLA Executive Board, their deputies, and senior leaders from DOJ, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), and the U.S. Marshals Service. The conversation centered on real-world issues facing federal, state, and local correctional institutions—including the rise of drone-assisted contraband drops, jamming technology, staffing and retention struggles, immigration detention coordination, and strategies for reducing recidivism.
Highlights included recognition of the Virginia Department of Corrections staff involved in a recent successful response to MS-13-related activity. A brief photo and award presentation celebrated their courageous efforts and ongoing commitment to public safety.
Participants also discussed the perception of corrections work, the urgent need for adequate funding, and the critical role of technology—from tablets to education tools—in improving reentry outcomes. Success stories from reentry and education programs underscored the power of innovation and compassion in rehabilitation.
Representatives from the correctional departments of Texas, Florida, Vermont, Virginia, Michigan, and Nebraska joined the dialogue, along with key officials from legislative, legal, and public affairs offices.
The roundtable reflected a powerful commitment to open dialogue, cross-agency collaboration, and strategic problem-solving that transcends jurisdictional lines.