African American Correctional Officers Association

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African American Correctional Officers Association

The AACOA was established in 2000 by a group of minority Correctional Officers who sought to improve working conditions.

The mission of the AACOA is to maintain a creditable link of communication between the Douglas County Department of Corrections and members of the AACOA. We strive to enhance the quality of work standards within DCDC, by building a more professional staff, and by creating the best possible work environment. We reciprocate those efforts through community initiatives that focus on volunteer service,

sponsorships, scholarships and networking with organizations that share our same goals and objectives as an organization.

06/06/2026

Congratulations to the new Cadets that graduated from the Douglas County Department of Corrections Training Academy. Job Well done. Welcome to the DCDC family

05/21/2026

Congratulations to Officer Dubon for her recent promotion to Sergeant. Job well done Sgt. Dubon.

05/06/2026

AACOA had the opportunity to award two graduating seniors of Omaha North High School the Tanya L. Burnside Memorial Scholarship. Congratulations Alaeya and Akazja. Pictured is Alaeya. Not Pictured Akazja.

05/03/2026

This week, as we recognize Correctional Officer Week, I want to personally thank every correctional officer who shows up day after day with courage, commitment, and professionalism.

Your work is often unseen, but it is never unimportant. You sacrifice time away from your families, work long and difficult hours, and put yourselves in harm’s way to protect our facility, our community, and the public we serve.

As AACOA President and as a Lieutenant, I am proud to stand with you and recognize the hard work, strength, and dedication you bring to this profession every single day. Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your continued commitment to the mission.

Happy Correctional Officer Week.

With Appreciation
Lt. Joelani Ballard
AACOA President

04/01/2026

AACOA would like to take time to congratulate former Lieutenant Mulvaney on his recent promotion to the rank of Captain. Congratulations Captain Mulvaney. Job well done.

03/06/2026

The AACOA family is deeply saddened by the passing of Retired Corporal Wade Stephens Jr., who passed away yesterday after serving more than 20 years with the Douglas County Department of Corrections prior to his recent retirement.

Corporal Stephens was larger than life in heart, character, and dedication. Throughout his career, he served the department in many capacities, most notably as a trainer, where he played a vital role in shaping and mentoring the next generation of correctional officers. His passion for teaching and developing others left a lasting impact on countless professionals who will carry his lessons forward. He was also a dedicated AACOA member for over 20 years, and his loyalty and commitment to this organization will not be forgotten.

Corporal Stephens’ influence extended well beyond the walls of the correctional facility. His reputation and relationships reached across the country, and through his security firm, Four Horsemen, he demonstrated an unmatched commitment to safety and professionalism—providing protection and service to everyone from local promoters to nationally recognized figures.

On behalf of our President, Lt. Ballard, Vice President Sgt. Porchia, and the entire AACOA family, we extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Wade Stephens Jr.

Rest easy, Corporal. We have the watch from here.

02/15/2026

Congratulations to the 25 cadets who graduated from the Douglas County Department of Corrections Training Academy. Job well done and welcome to the Douglas County family.

02/07/2026

Congratulations to Classification Officer Hill for winning 1st place in the County Wide Chili Cook Off. Job Well done

01/02/2026

Today, the African American Corrections Officer Association (AACOA) mourns the passing of Captain West. Captain West was a good man, a respected leader, and a dedicated public servant who consistently demonstrated professionalism, humility, and a genuine commitment to the people he served.

Captain West was always willing to work with our organization and never hesitated to collaborate on ideas that strengthened our facility, supported staff, and promoted unity. He understood the value of partnership, and he approached difficult work with fairness, steady character, and an open door.

On behalf of the AACOA, I extend our deepest condolences to the West family, friends, and colleagues. Our prayers are with you during this time of loss, and we also lift up our entire corrections family as we grieve together. Captain West’s impact will be remembered, and his service will not be forgotten.

Respectfully,
Lt. Joelani Ballard
President, AACOA

11/22/2025

Yesterday afternoon AACOA blessed 8 families whose children attend Belvedere Elementary with complete Thanksgiving baskets. Pictured is the Principal and staff of Belvedere.

Address

Omaha, NE
68152

Website

http://www.aacoasoaring.com/

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