WILLEMSTAD – The Court of Civil Servants has upheld the dismissal of a prison security employee in Curaçao, ruling that she was rightfully fired for serious misconduct.
The woman, who had been employed at the island’s prison since 2012, came under investigation after a colleague discovered she had been in contact with an inmate through social media. Further inquiries revealed that the contact extended to phone calls and ongoing communication.
According to the court’s ruling, the employee not only maintained inappropriate contact but also smuggled goods into the prison. These included food items, alcohol, and other products, sometimes in exchange for payment from multiple detainees. She also brought in prohibited objects such as a ladle and rope and warned an inmate in advance about inspections, allowing him to hide illegal items.
The employee admitted to the actions.
Following the investigation, the government dismissed her on the grounds of functional unsuitability. She challenged the decision, arguing that the procedure had been flawed. However, the court rejected these claims.
In its judgment, the court stated that the misconduct was so severe that the employee lacked the integrity and professional qualities required for her position. By assisting detainees and smuggling goods into the facility, she violated prison regulations and compromised the safety of staff and others.
Given the seriousness of the offenses, the court ruled that the government was not required to offer her an opportunity for improvement. The dismissal remains in force, and the former employee is not entitled to compensation for legal costs.