Outgoing prison Superintendent Col. Trevor Pennyfeather has defended his decision to allow an inmate to attend a childhood friend’s funeral, saying the request underwent a security review and the prisoner returned without incident.

His response followed concerns raised publicly by Prime Minister Gaston Browne about the decision.

Pennyfeather said the deceased man’s mother, who is a police officer, submitted a formal request for the inmate to attend. Prison officials considered the relationship between the two men, possible security risks and the inmate’s scheduled release in about a month.

The inmate and the deceased had reportedly grown up together. Pennyfeather believed attending the funeral could also have shown the prisoner the consequences of criminal activity.

A prison officer, police officer and member of the military escorted the inmate throughout the 45-minute outing.

Pennyfeather rejected suggestions that the prisoner was allowed to move around without adequate supervision. Although people at the funeral briefly spoke with him, Pennyfeather said security was not compromised.

He noted that inmates are sometimes permitted to attend funerals under escort, particularly when the deceased is a close relative or someone who played an important role in their lives.

Pennyfeather said such decisions can support rehabilitation by helping inmates prepare for their eventual return to society.

He is on vacation leave until his contract expires Oct. 7. Jeremy Anthony has been appointed acting prison superintendent.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Pennyfeather Defends Decision to Let Inmate Attend Friend’s Funeral.