Press Release
Contact: Justin Latini, Dir. Public Affairs
(508) 422-3317 OR
June 10, 2004

DOC Commissioner Announces Appointment
of New Associate Commissioner of Reentry and Reintegration

Department of Correction (DOC) Commissioner Kathleen M. Dennehy is pleased to announce the appointment of Veronica Madden as the new Associate Commissioner of Reentry and Reintegration. The creation of this position reflects the DOC's emphasis on successful inmate reentry into the community as a major public safety goal.

"With 97% of the inmates in our custody returning to our cities and towns at some point, we need to move this issue to the top of our priority list," said Commissioner Dennehy. "By consolidating the staff and functions that are essential to reentry and reintegration under the supervision of a high level senior manager, we can ensure that our entire organization is focused on both incarceration and reintegration."

The Associate Commissioner of Reentry and Reintegration will advise the Commissioner on reentry issues and lead and coordinate the DOC's implementation of the recommendations of the Governor's Commission on Criminal Justice Innovations; Subcommittee on Reentry and Reintegration.

"Successful reentry has been recognized by national criminal justice policy makers as critical to reducing recidivism, facilitating assimilation of returning offenders, and enhancing the safe and orderly running of our correctional facilities," said Commissioner Dennehy.

With over 24 years of service to the Commonwealth, Ms. Madden brings to the DOC a diverse work history and a broad management background. Her most recent assignment has been as the Area Forensic Director, Metro Boston Area for the Department of Mental Health. She began her career as Assistant Regional Counsel with the Department of Social Services, went on to the Department of Correction as a litigation attorney in 1980's and was Deputy Director/General Counsel to the Criminal History Systems Board and at its inception the Sex Offender Registry Board. She is a graduate of Suffolk University and Suffolk University Law School .

Secretary of Public Safety Edward A. Flynn added, "I am impressed with the progress of Commissioner Dennehy's systemic reform efforts and the appointment of Associate Commissioner Madden signals that more positive change is to come."

Ms. Madden will be taking the helm as the new Associate Commissioner of Reentry and Reintegration for the DOC on June 14, 2004 .