Work in the correctional services is tough and dangerous. It is not the most difficult work but the circumstances are very difficult under which you have to perform your duties. There is almost no chance of getting promoted due to affirmative action and the salary increases you get only covers your new tax bracket. In a correctional facility the officer knows that they are dealing with criminals in a controlled environment. Officers train and act accordingly, hopefully protecting each other. In corrections the danger is known, but it's all around the officer all the time.