This is a story of how this Hero LIVED:
Scotts Bluff County Correctional Detention Center, Nebraska
Correctional Officer Amanda Beth Baker
End Of Watch: 02-16-14 (1st of 3 LODD to be posted today)
CO Amanda Baker, 24, was strangled to death by a fifteen year old inmate (details below). Born with a soul that has courage to wear the badge, CO Baker had been Saving, Serving, and Protecting behind the walls standing as our last line of defense since 30 June 2012. CO Baker was assigned to the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center, both the adult center as well as the juvenile center. Co Baker enjoyed her work and gave 100% at all times. Taking pride in her work and in who she was always presented itself in her demeanor and her positive attitude.
Fellow Officers truly liked working with this True Blue Sister because she was fearless in the face of danger and not deterred by the risks dealing with the incarcerated. She was ready for the battle if one presented itself and never hesitated to back the Officers up. Now, being courageous is a definite must when dealing with violent offenders with nothing more than a few tools and fellow Officers to cover your six, but there is another quality imperative to do this work ... compassion. And our Sister Amanda had plenty of it ...
CO Baker was well aware that not everyone who found themselves behind the bars was evil. She understood that people sometimes make bad choices in life but are generally good at heart. Amanda never judged anyone and she treated all fairly and with humanity. CO Baker took time to talk, knowing that sometimes all someone really needs is someone to listen to keep them calm. So with an ever-present smile on her face, CO Baker proved to be an incredible asset with her ability to calm the masses with a few gentle words and understanding. She put everyone in a good mood just by walking through the door. And keeping the inmates calm is no easy task and yet so vital to safety for all.
CO Baker was just like any other Correctional Officer who get mistreated by some inmates. She had dealt with the harassment, assaults, and everything that comes with this job that so few are willing to do and yet, this amazing Warrior never let the bad outweigh the good. She was determined to make a difference in her small corner of the word and for this she will be remembered.
When not walking the halls, ensuring those behind bars are kept safely from the public, Sister Amanda was also attending nursing school. But her greatest love above all else was her baby son. Oh how she loved and doted on her pride and joy. CO Baler was trying so hard to make a better life for her son and she sacrificed so much to do this. But not once did she complain. Amanda was a wonderful role model to so many young women, showing the world that if you work hard enough and stay focused on what is important, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. May we carry forward our Sister's legacy by taking a part of her with us as we enter into our daily arena as we continue to create our own. May we vow to never let her be forgotten so her son can grow up knowing how much his mommy was loved and how she truly Lived As Only A Hero Could. May we never forget.
This is very brief and just preliminary as this is an ongoing investigation. Once exact facts are learned, we will update here. On 14 February 2014 0210hours, CO Baker entered the 15 year old inmate's cell. The male inmate got the upper hand and strangled CO Baker into unconsciousness with his arm. (not known why she was there alone, possible manpower issues, nor do we know how she was found as yet). She was rushed to the emergency room. She was being treated and put on life support. At 1520hours, doctors declared our beautiful Sister as being brain dead. Even upon her death she gave her life ... for the People ... Sister Amanda was kept on life support long enough to donate her organs as per her wishes.Sadly, and with a heavy heart, late Sunday 16 February, CO Amanda Baler was removed from support, succumbed and was pronounced deceased.
02-19-14: Though there are still many questions to be answered, and as this is still an ongoing investigation, we do have an update of some details in the killing of our Sister Officer Amanda Baker: An arrest affidavit filed by Scotts Bluff County sheriff's investigator Matt Holcomb says security video shows the inmate talked Officer Baker into checking something on his cell floor - he then jumped on her back and attacked when CO Baker turned her back. She fell face down - the inmate straddled her and wrapped his arms around her head and neck. CO Baker tried desperately to fight off the attack but finally lost consciousness approximately one minute later. The inmate kept his hold for another minute and a half. The affidavit also adds that the inmate then took her keys and began to open several other inmates' cells. A fellow CO was walking the halls and noticed the cell doors open. Upon inspection, he found Sister Amanda unconscious (but breathing). He called for help and began CPR efforts before she was transported. We will continue to update as the investigation continues.
Inmate has been charged with two counts in the death - first-degree murder, a Class IA felony, and first-degree assault, a Class II felony. He appeared Tuesday in Scotts Bluff County Court for arraignment on the charges - preliminary hearing in the case has been scheduled for March 17, 8 a.m.
On February 19, 2014 the Scotts Bluff County Attorney's Office filed charges against another inmate, age 16, for aiding and abetting first degree assault upon Corrections Officer Amanda Baker. The information leading to this charge was developed during the ongoing investigation - He has been charged as an adult.
Amanda leaves behind her son David II, 6, mom Julie, step-dad Randy, sister Cassie, and brothers Isaiah and Noah. She was greeted at the gates by her father David. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Baker family, the Men and Women of the Scotts Bluff County CDC, fellow nursing students at Western Nebraska Community College, and to all whom have had the pleasure and the privilege of knowing and working along side this True Blue Hero.
Our Sister, as you now stand tall at the gates of Heaven may you continue your vigilant watch over us all as we carry on in the battles to come ... In our Sister's Honor. We thank you for your service and for your sacrifice. We thank you for your life. Job Well Done Ma'am.
Rest In Peace Correctional Officer Amanda Beth Baker ... We have the watch from here. SALUTE!
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