KCRA 3 Investigation: Whistleblower Receives State Protection

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- KCRA 3 learned Wednesday that the state is offering security protection to those who've stepped forward in an investigation that stems from a riot inside Folsom State Prison.

A memo obtained by KCRA 3 says that several unnamed employees have requested personal security protection from the state.

In the memo, which is addressed to two state senators and the Department of Corrections, a Department of Corrections employee is raising concerns about the safety of the whistleblowers coming forward. The author writes: "These issues of personal safety are very real, and I encourage a field assessment by an outside law enforcement agency. I am requesting protection for my family."

As a matter of policy, the Department of Corrections is not commenting on if, or how many employees may have asked for security. But KCRA 3 has learned that several have already or are asking for protection as of Wednesday.

The concerns stem from an April 8, 2002, riot at Folsom Prison, in which two rival Hispanic gangs fought. Several current and former employees have come forward to allege that the riot was intentionally allowed to happen and then intentionally covered up.

"We must report crimes, whether staff or inmates are involved. And the same laws must apply to both. No one can be above the law. If we are to stand for truth as a peace officer, the truth must be told," said Folsom State Prison Associate Warden Max Lemon.

KCRA 3 can confirm that at least one whistleblower has asked for and received state protection.