• By Ashleigh Sloop
• Posted Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Major Robert Slater named NCJAA Administrator of the Year

On September 28, 2016, Major Robert Slater was presented the 2016 North Carolina Jail Administrator of the Year award from the North Carolina Jail Administrators’ Association (NCJAA). This award recognizes an administrator who has made exceptional contributions to the operations of a detention facility, the demonstration meritorious service and positive contribution to the association. The NCJAA encourages professionalism through effective training and the exchange of information between jail professionals. Members foster respect, friendship, and good will among all jail professionals and promote a positive image to the community and citizens they serve.

Major Slater began his career at the Forsyth County Law Enforcement Detention Center (LEDC) in 1995. Major Slater’s supervisory assignments range from managing sixty-five person general population units to inmate records and movements. His eagerness to learn and strong work ethic have been proven immeasurable assets to the LEDC. His diverse career background has led him to work in every area of the LEDC.

Major Slater’s professionalism and dedication are demonstrated on a daily basis. His approachable disposition and willingness to help others learn encourage staff members to mirror his actions. He is an active supervisor and routinely attends roll call and walks dormitory units. Major Slater’s dedication to quality inmate care standards while maintaining a safe and secure environment for staff is testament to the outstanding leadership he possesses. Major Slater’s knowledge of the rules, regulations and standards associated with a detention facility are unparalleled. He is considered a “walking encyclopedia” of knowledge. Major Slater shares his knowledge and experience with staff and other detention facilities.

Substantial staff initiatives and facility projects have been implemented during Major Slater’s tenure as Detention Administrator. Enhancements of LEDC security and safety include the upgrade and expansion of security camera circuits and National Commission on Correctional Health Care accreditation. Major Slater was directly responsible for negotiating daily inmate housing rates with the U.S. Marshal Service. Two massive construction projects, inmate shower remodel and roof replacement, have been successful due to Major Slater’s dedication and attention to detail. Under his guidance, the LEDC has not experienced issues or service interruptions. This is a confirmation of Major Slater’s ability to effectively plan and to “think outside the box.”

Through efforts to provide improved services for the public and staff members, Major Slater has implemented the Armed Detention Officers Program. This program affords career advancement for detention staff and allows sworn staff to remain in the field. He has improved moral by converting a vacant space into a break room for staff members only. In addition, Major Slater amended the food services contract to include an improved food selection for staff. He has played a key role in obtaining pay incentives for staff who are members of the Honor Guard, Special Response Team and Field Training Officers. Compensation and career advancements have been redesigned through a career ladder process that includes Detention Officer I, II and III ranks.