Philip W. Parker spent decades inside the walls of Kentucky State Penitentiary, rising from correctional officer to one of the longest-serving wardens in the institution’s 130-year history. In his book Guard, he offers an unfiltered, first-hand account of life behind bars—hostage situations, federal lawsuits, death penalty duties, and the everyday realities faced by those who keep the system running. Here's what he had to say about why he wrote the book.
My name is Philip Parker and I was a correctional officer back in the ‘70s at Kentucky State Penitentiary. I was on the emergency squad which later was called CERT. Besides responding to disturbances, I also negotiated a hostage situation in segregation.
My service led to allegations of civil rights violations and brutality and harassment in federal court. In one instance, a jury trial resulted in punitive and compensatory damages awarded to an inmate. Back in my day, lawsuits were a frequent job hazard that we all suffered and endured.
I worked my way up and became one of the longest serving wardens (12 years) in the 130 year history of the old Castle.
I have written a book about my experiences, which is a tribute to the men and women working in prisons and jails.
The book also covers my experiences carrying out court-ordered executions by electrocution and lethal injection and the incredible duty and professionalism of those charged with carrying out the death penalty.
If you would like to hear more about my journey as an old school guard and warden click on this link https://geniusbookpublishing.com/products/guard
Thank you and kindest regards. Philip W Parker
