About Us
Our Story
“Making sure you never walk alone…”
Unlike other associations where key officials receive monetary compensation just for holding position, the ACA was formed for the sole purpose of service to the membership, protecting and ensuring the rights of every correctional staff member without personal or monetary benefit to Execute Board members. Written into the ACA bylaws are strict financial rules on disclosure of funds and expenditures as well as strict approval of any reimbursements or stipends.
The ACA has one of the most comprehensive benefit programs compared to the other unions. Staff representation is provided on a variety of work related issues, work related legal representation from both the Napier Law Firm and an independent Legal Defense Fund, as well as, representation on policy decisions, grievances and disciplinary hearings. Providing no cost wills and discounted trusts to members and members family. At the legislative level of State government the ACA, through its affiliation with the APA has lobbyist who represent the interests of correctional staff presenting the many issues and concerns of our officers.
The ACA was founded with the belief of “Members First”. The ACA has maintained this fundamental belief and has been able to provide 24/7/365 legal representation since 2009; whereby other associations have failed.
“As ACA Executive President it is my duty and honor to represent the staff at the Arizona Department of Corrections. I believe all Department Employees deserve representation from those with integrity and honor.
The ACA has a long tradition of standing by their members. We have stood up to serve the greater good of the Department. The Department is a large extended family where no one should have to fight alone. As long as I am President no one in my family will.
I pledge to fight diligently to ensure a better work environment for our members.“
-Barry DeFeo, President
Legal Protections
Political Representation
Media Relations
Arizona Corrections Association,
supporting our members …
Our Leadership…
Executive President
Barry DeFeo
Born and raised in New Jersey, Barry relocated to Arizona with his family in June 1998 and currently resides in Pinal County. He began his career with the Arizona Department of Corrections in February 1999 and has served in a supervisory role since 2005.
Throughout his career, Barry has held assignments across multiple complexes, including Eyman (SMU II / Browning, SMU I, and Cook), Florence (East, South, Central, North, and CB Kasson), Phoenix (Aspen Unit and Alhambra), and Winslow (Kaibab). He has also served as a CO III managing caseloads and inmate discipline. He is currently assigned to Red Rock as a Contract Monitor and Disciplinary Hearing Officer (DHO).
Barry has been actively involved in professional associations since the early 2000s, beginning with AZCOPS as a shop steward and grievance coordinator. He later served as the ACA Winslow and Florence Chapter President and now holds the position of ACA Executive President.
I am proud to be a member of the ACA, and even more proud to serve and represent our membership as Executive President. I am honored to have earned the trust of our members and remain committed to advocating on their behalf.
Vice President
Clinton Roberts
Clinton Roberts started with the Arizona Department of Corrections in August 2005. Since then, he has worked all levels of custody and all shifts. During his career he has seen unions as a hindrance to capitalism until he started working for the department/government. He saw how unfair officers and staff were being treated including himself. At the time the other organizations were giving up the rights of the officers. He and another officer stood up for officer’s rights and the leadership of AZCPOA threatened to sue us. At that point he and the officer started looking to form another organization. That is when Jim Christy and Glenn Conlon reached out advising that they formed the Arizona Corrections Association (ACA) under the Arizona Police Association (APA). Clinton has served as Chapter Vice President, Chapter President, Executive Vice President, Executive President and now Executive Vice President again.
His first priority for ACA is higher pay for all staff. If the agency can’t retain good competent officers to complete the daily mission and tactical priorities, everyone knows what eventually will happen. Over his 20 plus years, this has been the number one reason for the loss of great staff.
“We don’t get paid for what we do, we get paid for what could happen.” – Ken Eckstein
Secretary
Sarah Osterloh
With nearly two decades of dedicated service to the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry I built a career grounded in leadership, integrity, and a commitment to meaningful change. Over the past 19 years, I have progressed through the ranks from Sergeant to Lieutenant, and now proudly serve as a Captain.
Throughout my career, I have been deeply involved in institutional operations, staff development, and training initiatives that emphasize professionalism, accountability, and safety. My passion lies in developing others—ensuring that staff are not only well-trained, but also equipped with the emotional intelligence and leadership skills necessary to succeed in a demanding environment.
As a Captain, I continue to focus on fostering a culture of respect, structure, and rehabilitation. I am committed to advancing the mission of corrections by supporting both staff and the individuals in our care, with a strong belief that effective leadership can positively impact outcomes across the entire system.
Treasurer
Stephanie Altieri
Douglas Chapter President
Jay Swanson
Eyman Chapter President
Jess Tellechea
Jess was Born and raised in California. She moved to Arizona in 2015 where she first got into corrections with the CCA Corporation. In 2016 Jess left the privet prison for the ADCRR. She was assigned to Florence Complex (North Unit). After the closure of North Unit in 2020 she was transferred to Eyman complex (Browning Unit). Shortly after Jess promoted to Sergeant and is currently assigned to Rynning Unit.
During her career, Jess has witnessed many staff members being treated unfairly. She felt the needed to act and try and help fix this issue. Jess is proud to be of service as the Eyman Chapter President.
Safford Chapter President
Misty Rhodes
I have proudly served with the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry (ADCRR) since 2012. Over the course of my career, I have remained committed to professionalism, accountability, and strong leadership, progressing through the ranks to my current position of Lieutenant.
I also spent five years assigned to the Tactical Support Unit (TSU), where I gained valuable experience operating in high-pressure environments and responding to complex situations alongside a dedicated team. These experiences have helped shape my approach to leadership, emphasizing teamwork, preparedness, and the responsibility we carry in this profession.
I am proud to be a member of the ACA, and even more proud to be entrusted with the responsibility of serving as the Safford Chapter President.
Perryville Chapter President
Jody Navarro
Serving as the Perryville Chapter President for the ACA, I take pride in leading with purpose, accountability, and a strong commitment to those we serve. My leadership is rooted in a genuine passion for healthcare and service, reinforced by over 10 years of experience in both the medical field and correctional case management. Throughout my career, I have remained focused on supporting individuals during their most vulnerable moments, ensuring they are treated with dignity, care, and compassion. I strive to lead by example, guided by empathy, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to making a meaningful and lasting impact.
Fort Grant Representative
Robert Poeter
Lt. Robert Porter is a 17-year veteran of the Arizona Department of Corrections, with a career spanning both the Tucson and Safford complexes. As a third-generation correctional professional and a former member of the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, Lt. Porter brings a disciplined, mission-first approach to leadership, having held specialized roles including Crisis Negotiator, FTO, and Staff Instructor. His passion for supporting those on the front lines is further demonstrated through long-standing involvement in employee representation groups and service as a Military Support Liaison.
A recipient of the department’s Lifesaving Medal, Lt. Porter leverages his diverse background to support and encourage line staff statewide. Off the clock, Robert enjoys spending quality time with his wife and family and is a fan of 90s country music. A devotee of Sci-Fi, he also dedicates time to exercising his Second Amendment rights and can frequently be found participating in the traditions of his local Masonic lodge