Gov. Kristi Noem, DOC release report that followed probe into nepotism, sexual harassment allegations

Inadequate organizational structures within the South Dakota prison system create a potential for nepotism and favoritism, which factored into a series of firings in the Department of Corrections last year, according to a new report.

The governor's office Tuesday released to the Argus Leader a 59-page report compiled by California-based CGL Companies, which Gov. Kristi Noem hired in August to vet the department with a focus on workplace culture, morals and security.

In it, the consultant outlines dozens of recommendations for improving staff morale, retention and scheduling, but offered few new details about the allegations of workplace misconduct that surfaced last summer.

"Minimize perceptions of favoritism and nepotism, consider such strategies as continuing to try to routinely check in with all staff members, communicating with staff members at all levels and across divisions, demonstrating transparency in decision making, seeking input from diverse groups of staff members, ensuring that performance is measured based on objective criteria, etc," reads recommendation 38 of 84.

More: Q&A: Gov. Kristi Noem's new corrections secretary talks vision for South Dakota's prison system

The report also states lagging wages are leading to unsustainable worker retention levels. For instance, during a six month period, "separations outpaced new hires" by a two-to-one margin.

Previously: Former DOC official part of workplace misconduct fallout taking South Dakota to court

The findings of the report were also released to the South Dakota Legislature's Government Operations and Audit Committee along with a letter from Corrections Secretary Kellie Wasko in which she states that several of CGL's recommendations are already being implemented, such as wage increases and organizational restructuring.

"I am proud of the work the department has already been able to accomplish in a short amount of time," said Wasko, who was confirmed in February after former Secretary Mike Leidholt took an early retirement after being placed on administrative leave last summer. "We will continue to make progress on the recommendations, and I look forward to working with you to modernize our correctional system."

CGL was paid $166,410.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Kristi Noem releases Department of Corrections report after firings