The state Senate’s confirmation of the Public Safety director, despite the negative advice and recommendation from its own Public Safety and Military Affairs Committee, is absurd and unconscionable (“Hawaii Senate reconfirms Public Safety Department leader Nolan Espinda,” Star-Advertiser, April 24).

In the midst of numerous controversial issues indicating the department’s mismanagement, such as staff violation of existing policies and questionable personnel practices, the Senate’s decision to extend the tenure of Nolan Espinda is an error in judgment that will not improve the deficiencies and ineffectiveness of the department.

Unfortunately, this decision will continue to jeopardize the lives of both inmate and staff at our correctional facilities.

Thomas Gonsalves

Kakaako

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