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AhtnaSTS Obtains Two Perfect Scores on Accreditation Audits at Port Isabel Detention Center (PIDC)

Published December 2017 by AhtnaSTS, a member of the Ahtna, Inc. family of companies

Ahtna Support and Training Services (AhtnaSTS) underwent two performance-based audits at the Port Isabel Detention Center. These audits involved a very comprehensive review of services provided that included security, food services, transportation operations, detainee care and safety, and facility management.

All Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Service Processing Centers are required to be annually audited under the Performance Based National Detention Standards and reaccredited tri-annually under the American Correctional Association (ACA). These audits ensure compliance with nationally recognized standards and define policies and procedures necessary for the operation of programs that safeguard life, health and safety of the detainees and personnel who work in the facilities and programs.

In February, the annual PBNDS audit was performed. AhtnaSTS received a rating of “Outstanding” with no deficiencies, which is the highest rating possible. Approximately 4 months later, in June, we underwent our tri-annual ACA Audit where we received a score of 100% on all mandatory and non-mandatory standards.

In one of our employees’ 14 years of Federal Contracting and oversight/management of ICE detention facilities, this is the first time they had seen a score of 100% on non-mandatory standards and the first facility to receive an overall score of 100% under ACA. That is an exceptional score and we are extremely proud of our staff and sub-contractors. The AhtnaSTS Food Service Manager was also acknowledged for the quality of the meals served to detainees and staff.

The PIDC staff’s job knowledge, professionalism, and attitudes about their jobs were commended by the auditors and ICE. The auditors more than once stated that our officers seemed to really enjoy their jobs and were individually excited and proud of their work at PIDC.

It is an honor to be part of an award winning team that not only sets the standard, but makes the standard.