Governor McKee Nominates Wayne Salisbury to Lead the Rhode Island Department of Corrections

Published on Friday, May 17, 2024

PROVIDENCE, RI – Governor Dan McKee announced today his nomination of Wayne Salisbury, Jr., to serve as Director of the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (DOC).

“Wayne’s experience in the Department of Corrections is extensive, and he has played an important role in day-to-day operations and long-term, strategic planning for the department,” said Governor Dan McKee. “I look forward to continuing to work with Director Salisbury to maintain high professional standards at the DOC and ensure a safe environment across all correctional facilities in Rhode Island.” 

Salisbury is a veteran of the United States Air Force and has worked for more than 30 years in public safety, rising through the ranks to his current position as RIDOC’s Interim Director responsible for overseeing the administration and operations of the agency. He previously worked as the department’s Assistant Director, Deputy Warden, and Acting Warden. Prior to his time at DOC, Salisbury served as the Warden of the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility in Central Falls from 2004 to 2010. 

Salisbury is a Certified Corrections Executive and has received specialized training from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the National Institute of Corrections. He was recognized with the 2007 Neil J. Houston Jr. Award for Dedicated Service and Citizen Contribution Toward the Criminal Justice Profession and Public Interest. 

He is an active member of the Correctional Leaders Association, American Jail Association, and the American Correctional Association. Salisbury received his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Roger Williams University, a Master of Public Administration from the University of Rhode Island, and a second bachelor’s in cyber security from New England Institute of Technology. 

“I’m honored to have led the Rhode Island Department of Corrections over the last sixteen months, as we have faced operational challenges in areas such as staffing, recruitment, restrictive housing, and recidivism reduction to name a few. I am grateful for the Governor’s nomination and pledge my continuous commitment to provide a safe and secure environment for all while offering rehabilitative and vocational opportunities for those returning to our communities,” said Salisbury. “By providing these opportunities, the goal is to decrease recidivism and further reduce victimization in our state. And finally, I would like to acknowledge the men and women of this organization, whose hard work often goes unrecognized and underappreciated. “We look forward to the American Correctional Association accreditation process, and bringing contemporary, nationwide best practices to Rhode Island, to solidify our department as one of the best operating agencies in the country.”

Salisbury’s name will be submitted to the Rhode Island Senate for advice and consent.