Ch 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility PDF

Lesson 1 Observing and Monitoring Inmates Lesson Goal You will be able to monitor inmates and recognize unusual occurrences in a correc- tional setting. Think About This Inmate Thompson has been a model inmate by following the facility rules, getting along well with other inmates, and general...

Lesson 1 Observing and Monitoring Inmates Lesson Goal You will be able to monitor inmates and recognize unusual occurrences in a correc- tional setting. Think About This Inmate Thompson has been a model inmate by following the facility rules, getting along well with other inmates, and generally seeming calm. The past few days, however, the inmate has been un- usually quiet and nervous. This morning, the inmate asks the supervising officer to be relocated to another day room. Should the officer be concerned? Is it worth their time to pay attention to these changes in behavior? Observation Skills ✅ CO601.1. Observe inmate activity in a correctional facility Your primary duties as a correctional officer are the care, custody, and control of inmates. Your ability to observe changes in the daily patterns and routines of your facility is an important skill in supervising inmates. Observation is being aware of your surroundings and paying close attention to details. Protect your personal safety and security by monitoring inmates at all times, such as when they enter or exit a housing area. Prevent potential threats and safety hazards to fellow offi- cers, staff, inmates, and the public by watching your surroundings. Observe behavioral patterns of inmates to decide if a situation is normal or if it requires action. Using the Senses The first stage of observation is monitoring inmate behavior using the primary senses of seeing, hearing, touching, and smelling. Using these senses helps you detect environmental changes in the facility. When you walk your rounds in your assigned section of the facility, look for any alterations or damage to property or equipment, listen for any changes to inmate conversations or noise, and notice any changes in the regular odors of the institution, such as smelling smoke. In the recreation yard, maintain a heightened awareness for any sudden changes in weather, any damage to the building or equipment outside, or any changes in behavior or tension among inmates. Changes in inmate behavior could include hearing a change in the noise level or observing improper contact between inmates or staff or a violation of inmate conduct, such as unauthorized dress, whistling, sexual comments, assaults, and escape attempts. Sense of Sight Watch the actions of inmates to observe changes in their behavior and surroundings, and to iden- tify missing items or damage to equipment and property. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 157 Inmates gathering in a group that keeps you from seeing what is going on could be dangerous. Disperse the group by making your presence known and giving the group verbal commands, such as telling them to break up and move on. Sense of Hearing Listening skills are an essential component of effective observation. You should be aware of the usual noises and noise levels in the facility. Changes in facility noises may indicate potential violations. It is normal for noise levels to increase when inmates are watching sporting events or participating in activities, but you should remain alert for signs of a threat. Listen to inmate communications for key words, slang, or changes in voice inflection. During sleeping hours, excessive or unusual noise might indicate a potential problem. For example, you must investigate any loud banging or scraping noises coming from a cell, screaming, crying, or repeated flushing of toilets. These sounds could be signs of a possible fight, sexual assault, the sharpening of a shank, or an escape attempt. Sense of Touch There are many ways that you will use your sense of touch to make sure that your facility is secured. You will perform searches of inmates, their cells, and their possessions. You should make a thorough and accurate search, both for your safety and as a procedure for your job. While you are making your rounds, check to see if doors are closed properly by testing the knobs or handles. Perform searches in common rooms, visitor rooms, and the dining hall. Wear gloves and other PPE while searching and feeling for contraband items with your hands. Sense of Smell Every institution has its own smell. It is a combination of industrial cleaners, laundry soap, cooking smells, and normal body odors from various inmates and staff. This smell will become familiar to you as you work in your facility. Be able to recognize the scents that do not belong in your everyday world, such as the smell of certain drugs, or of metal or wood shavings from an inmate fashioning a shank. There are other environmental scents you will recognize, such as the smell of a mattress that has been burned to distract you. Be safe and aware at all times. It is better to report an odd smell than ignoring it until it becomes a larger problem. Monitoring Inmate Behavior Unusual activity of inmates could be an indicator that a problem is occurring or about to occur. Suspicious activities or behaviors, such as slamming a door or locker, yelling, fighting, or faking an injury could be an attempt to distract you to commit a violation. You should assess the situation and determine if additional resources are needed. If there is a threat, immediately contact a supervisor and take required action. Remember to document the situation after it has been resolved safely. 158 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 ✅ CO601.2. Monitor inmate behavior in the housing area of a correctional facility You should monitor closely any changes in inmate behavior, especially in the housing area. These changes could be the result of personal stress, such as divorce, notification of a death in the family, loss of a work assignment, or receipt of charges. Paying attention to changes in the housing area can also alert you to possible illegal activities, such as escape plans or attempts. Indicators of a possible escape include an inaccurate inmate count, missing screws, broken windows, damaged toilets (for example, a toilet being separated from the wall), evidence of digging through walls or floors, or loose security bars. Other signs of a potential escape may be inmates hoarding excessive sheets or towels, maps of facilities and the surrounding area drawn on walls, the ground, or any paper products, coded messages in the mail, or finding visitors or other inmates in unauthorized areas. Incidents such as a fire or a medical emergency, grouping of inmates, or a staged fight might be used as distractions for escape attempts or other illegal activity. When inmates enter or exit the housing area, identify each inmate by photo ID, armband, or uniform color. Compare the identification method with the housing roster. The color of the uniform may reveal the inmate’s classification, work assignment, or housing location. For example, an inmate’s ID tag will confirm whether the inmate is authorized to be in that area. Make sure that inmates clean their living areas and practice personal hygiene to minimize health hazards. An inmate practicing poor personal hygiene can draw unwanted attention, causing conflict between inmates. Showers, toiletries, personal hygiene items, and uniforms are available to inmates. Make sure that inmates follow the established housing standards, showering schedules, and uniform guidelines. Inmates dressed according to agency policy make it easier to see concealed contraband or identify signs of security threat groups. Inmates may modify their uniforms by rolling up a pant leg, tying their shoes in a specific pattern, writing graffiti on clothes, and wearing clothes backward or inside out. An inmate’s appearance can also indicate a potential security risk; for example, an inmate wearing seasonally inappropriate clothing may be concealing contraband. Inmates may alter their physical appearance with tattoos, different hairstyles, and body piercings. These security violations must be addressed and documented. Surveillance Equipment Correctional facilities have blind spots, which are locations within a facility that have limited visibil- ity, such as corners, closets, doorways, the rear of inmate dorms, and stairwells. These are difficult for officers to monitor for inmate activity and may pose a security or safety concern. ✅ CO601.3. Know how surveillance equipment can help you monitor inmates in a correctional facility Surveillance equipment, such as video cameras, lighting, and convex wall mirrors, help you monitor daily operations within the facility. This equipment reduces blind spots and helps officers limit the introduction of contraband, observe illegal activities, and respond to incidents safely and quickly. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 159 Surveillance equipment can also provide visual and audio evidence to support documentation for incident reports, investigations, or any additional needs. Observing Unusual Occurrences An unusual occurrence is an incident that is out of the ordinary and disrupts the normal operation of the facility and routine daily activities. ✅ CO601.4. Know the unusual occurrences that can disrupt the normal operations of a correctional facility These incidents negatively affect the security of the facility, and include events such as: inmate or staff death inmate strikes (refusal to eat or work) serious injuries to inmate or staff riots suicide or attempted suicide hostage situations escapes or attempted escapes bomb threats or detonation criminal acts fire inability to clear inmate count disasters inmates fighting sexual assault use of force lost or missing equipment, particularly keys power or water outages at the facility Any incident can lead to a disturbance, provoking a response from other inmates, and possibly escalating to major disturbances or riots. Handle minor incidents immediately to avoid inmates taking matters into their own hands. When inmates seek revenge, sympathetic participants could join in the conflict, and a small, containable incident can quickly grow out of control. Look for indi- cators of an impending disturbance or riot and take proactive measures to prevent these incidents from occurring. Signs of Potential Disturbances ✅ CO601.5. Know the indicators of a potential disturbance in a correctional facility Indicators of potential disturbances include when inmates: gather in a particular area stay in their cells request to be transferred or moved 160 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1  become more violent with each other act out to be placed in special protection or isolation have low morale avoid areas where large numbers of other inmates gather store food warn staff to stay home on particular days increase in security threat group-related activities have more weapons found in searches who are informants share information separate more often along racial or ethnic lines make specific demands Also avoid the distraction of long conversations, as this could be a diversion for inappropriate behav- ior in another area. Proactive intervention begins with being aware of surroundings and changes in inmate behaviors, dress, and social groupings. Examples may include: Inmates wearing boots during showers and at night may indicate the occurrence of an incident. Magazines under shirts may indicate an inmate expects being stabbed or hit. Hoarding items from the commissary may indicate an inmate expects being placed in lockdown. An increase in requests for protection or “check-in” may indicate fear of being attacked. An increase or decrease in the normal activity or sounds of the facility may indicate a riot or escape is likely. Report these behaviors to your shift supervisor at once, call for backup if appropriate, and take immediate action to isolate the developing incident. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 161 Documentation ✅ CO601.6. Know when to document usual and unusual occurrences that happen in a correctional facility Officers use logs, report forms, and video recordings to document facility operations, daily activities, and unusual occurrences. Completing accurate documentation is essential for safety, security, and accountability. Examples of usual and unusual occurrences that need to be documented include: inmate counts escapes or attempted escapes fights security checks meals workgroup assignments suicide attempts sexual assaults sick call court appearances fire use of force cell searches visitation natural disasters bomb threats clinical visits transports riots medical and mental emergencies Written reports keep the facility staff informed about developments and problem areas. It is partic- ularly important to document inmate movement, such as moving inmates between dorms and the dining hall or to and from medical and visitation. This documentation helps verify counts and work assignments. Use forms and logs to document inmate movement, taking care to note any incidents. 162 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Lesson 2 Supervision of the Referral Process Lesson Goal You will be able to make a referral for an inmate with signs of distress or need. Think About This An inmate nervously approaches an officer and tells the officer that they are having a hard time and would like to talk to someone. The officer says that they don’t have time to deal with personal problems and suggests that the inmate talk to some of the other inmates instead. Weeks go by with none of the officers noticing that the inmate is hoarding bedsheets to use in a suicide at- tempt. Luckily, the inmate is discovered and stopped. Could the situation have been prevented from escalating? Referral Services in the Facility It is critical that you effectively observe and recognize an inmate in distress and in need of refer- ral services. You must become familiar with your agency’s referral process to make sure that the inmate receives the appropriate care. ✅ CO602.1. Know the different referral services available to inmates Cooperation and adequate communication between you and the service provider are vital to the proper care and treatment of inmates. Inmates may be referred to the following providers: medical dental psychiatric chaplain substance abuse services classification (for example, housing location or work assignment) additional services that may be provided, such as educational or legal services Being familiar with the referral process will allow for a prompt response, needed resources for the inmate, and safety and security of the facility. Identifying the Need for a Referral Sudden or unusual changes in an inmate’s behavior may indicate the need for a referral. Being famil- iar with inmates under your supervision allows you to observe and recognize changes in behavior. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 163 Information used for a referral may include statements made by the inmate, observed behavior, or another reason, such as a personal crisis. Providing this information may help the service provider determine the proper treatment. ✅ CO602.2. Recognize changes in inmate behavior that may require a referral Some signs and symptoms of distress or need are illness, physical pain, odd movement, or unre- sponsiveness. Obvious signs or changes to observe in an inmate may include difficulty in walking, low energy, screaming, crying, weight loss, a rash, or a severe cough. It is important to be aware of changes in behavior, especially when these changes happen suddenly. Behavioral changes include giving away belongings, wanting to be alone, not eating, acting strangely, having unusual interac- tions with others, being restless, or showing signs of poor personal hygiene. Psychological symp- toms may require more interaction to determine the severity of the need. These symptoms may include abrupt changes in demeanor, mood swings, depression, or suicidal thoughts. Inmates may request a referral for services; treat this request in the same way as if you observed the need. Staff, friends, family members, or other inmates may report strange inmate behavior. Cell searches may also reveal suicide notes or other evidence that an inmate needs referral services. Base your decision for an inmate referral on information you obtain and your knowledge of the facility’s available services. After careful assessment, refer the inmate to the most appropriate service provider. For example, if you observe bizarre behavior, you should make a psychological referral. Illnesses and injuries require a medical referral. If the type of service the inmate needs is not obvious, contact your supervisor for further direction. Making the Referral Once you identify the need for a referral, gather relevant facts to explain your decision. Personally observe the inmate, and interview the inmate, staff, or others. Tell the service provider about the inmate’s specific actions and behaviors, avoiding generaliza- tions. Statements such as “acting weird” may not be helpful; instead, use more specific language such as “the inmate was talking to the wall” or the inmate was “unresponsive and staring off into space.” It is essential that you take good field notes to adequately relay the information to the service provider and later document the incident. ✅ CO602.3. Know the process for making an inmate referral Follow these basic steps when making a referral: Identify the need for a referral. Interview the inmate, staff, or others. Contact service providers. Request an escort if necessary. 164 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1  Make the referral. Document the incident. Each agency may have different procedures for making referrals. It is your responsibility to know your agency’s requirements. Officer Response to Inmate Need ✅ CO602.4. Know your responsibilities after making an inmate referral Once you determine the need for a referral, keep the inmate under close observation. Until the inmate is in the care of the service provider, you are responsible for taking necessary action so that no harm comes to the inmate or anyone else. For example, apply first aid as necessary or intervene to prevent a suicide. Remember to use universal precautions, including PPE, as needed. Threats to officer safety may exist when responding to inmates in distress. Be cautious; an inmate could pretend medical distress to cause a distraction. Assess the situation and determine if it is reasonably safe to respond to the inmate. From a security standpoint, recognize that an inmate might try to assume the identity of another inmate. Confirm the identity of the inmate being referred. Always respond when an inmate reports or displays medical or psychological distress. Inmate Movement and Documentation ✅ CO602.5. Know who to notify and how to move an inmate after making a referral The control room or a supervisor will coordinate movement of inmates who have received a referral inside a correctional facility. When an escort is necessary, security considerations before movement include the inmate’s classification level, types of restraints used, and number of officers needed. When the inmate arrives at the destination, notify the control room or supervisor that the move- ment of the inmate is completed. Any time an inmate has been referred, communicate with other appropriate staff. This communica- tion is usually passed along verbally or through a daily log. Share details of the referral, follow-up requirements, and assessment with other shifts. Documentation of an inmate referral varies among correctional agencies. This documentation is forwarded from the housing unit to the service provider. Typically, this documentation is a narra- tive report that addresses the need for the referral, the proper identification of the inmate being referred, and the service provider. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 165 Lesson 3 Inmate Discipline Process Lesson Goal You will be able to distinguish between a minor and major rule violation, apply appropriate discipline, and complete a disciplinary report. Think About This Many of us have seen television shows and movies that show violent fights in prisons and jails. What is not often shown is what happens after these fights have ended. How does the administra- tion deal with the inmates involved? How are these inmates disciplined so that this behavior does not happen again? Inmate Discipline Discipline is the enforcement of a penalty for a violation of established rules and is used to ensure compliance and obedience to established rules. The disciplinary process is designed to correct an inmate’s behavior. The goal of discipline is to maintain order and ensure the safety and security of the facility. Section 944.09, F.S., provides the authority and guidelines for enforcing rules. It allows each facility the ability to expand the guidelines for establishing rules for disciplinary processes and lets higher authorities tailor them to each situation. You can never deny due process, but you can restrict it to meet the safety needs of a facility. For example, mail is a right, but, with the exception of legal mail, it may be withheld from the inmate until disciplinary confinement is complete. Rule 33-601.314, F.A.C., defines the rules of prohibited inmate conduct and the penalties for viola- tions or infractions in state correctional facilities. A list of these rules is included in every inmate’s handbook. The Florida Model Jail Standards govern rules in county facilities, and inmates are also given a copy of these standards in their inmate handbook. ✅ CO603.1. Understand the role of progressive discipline for an inmate rule violation or infraction In a correctional facility, the disciplinary process is an administrative function that addresses minor and major rule violations; it does not follow the same rules as criminal procedures. This disciplinary process is sometimes called progressive discipline. The process increases the penalty if the inmate does not correct their behavior. Officer discretion may be applied when determining a disciplin- ary action, considering the severity of the rule violation or any violations of the law. If an inmate is involved in a disciplinary process, and a pending outside criminal charge may apply, Miranda warnings must be given before questioning the inmate. A rule violation or infraction is an activity or behavior that is not permitted in the correctional facil- ity. For example, an inmate steals a radio that belongs to another inmate. While this is technically 166 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 petit theft, the offending inmate may be disciplined only within the facility and not prosecuted in a court of law. Collect and analyze all relevant information about an observed or reported rule violation. Ask the inmate and other observers open- ended questions to obtain more information about the violation. Ask follow-up questions and take complete and accurate notes on the information you receive. During questioning, look for inconsistencies in inmate responses, body language, or physi- cal evidence. Minor and Major Rule Violations When you observe inappropriate inmate behavior, begin the documentation process of progres- sive discipline. Be familiar with and refer to your facility’s inmate handbook or agency’s rules and regulations manual. After determining if it is a minor or major rule violation, respond based on the severity of the incident. ✅ CO603.2. Understand the process of progressive discipline for minor and major rule violations, including inmate isolation Minor infractions are violations of rules for which a disciplinary report is not necessary. A minor violation is any rule violation resulting in a consequence that goes beyond a verbal warning, but the violation would not justify maximum disciplinary sanctions. Some unacceptable behaviors gener- ally considered to be minor rule violations include wearing a uniform improperly, rough horseplay, and gambling. Some rule violations may be considered major or minor depending on the circum- stances, the severity or the degree of the violation, and other considerations. Major rule violations are any disruption so significant that maximum disciplinary sanctions may be imposed. Incidents like disorderly conduct, disrespectful behavior, violence, use of a weapon, sexual activity, use of drugs or intoxicants, battery, and extortion are considered major rule violations. As soon as you become aware of a major rule violation, obtain approval from the shift supervisor to begin the disciplinary process. It may be necessary to isolate the inmate in a holding area to maintain the order and security of the facility, as well as the safety of staff, visitors, and inmates. If you need to place an inmate who has committed a major rule violation into isolation, follow these steps: Contact a supervisor or control room. Request backup if necessary. Secure the inmate and separate them from other inmates. Secure the scene (if there is a suspected crime scene). Move the inmate to a holding cell. Have medical perform a pre-confinement physical (depending on agency policies and procedures). Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 167  Move the inmate to confinement. Document the incident. In most facilities, officers must notify their supervisor of any major rule violations. The supervisor will evaluate the incident and make sure that any additional action is taken as needed. A higher authority, such as a duty warden or sheriff, may also be notified, as well as outside agencies. There may be a crime scene, evidence may need to be preserved and protected, and coordination with other agencies may be required. The supervisor must approve any action taken, verify that proper documentation is completed, and make sure that the disciplinary process is carried out in a fair and unbiased manner. Corrective Action Corrective action is when steps are taken to eliminate the cause of inappropriate or unlawful behav- ior to prevent it from happening again. Given the nature of a correctional facility and inmates in general, inappropriate inmate behavior will occur. Officer presence discourages rule violations. ✅ CO603.3. Understand the corrective action an officer can take as part of the inmate discipline process, to include writing a disciplinary report (DR) When you observe inappropriate conduct, give a verbal warning or counseling to the inmate to stop the behavior immediately. A majority of disciplinary issues can be handled at this level. If the inmate immediately corrects the behavior, no other action is required. If the behavior continues, you may escalate your response. The discipline process involves counseling and may also result in: verbal warning corrective consultation (incident report or mid-level written warning) formal disciplinary report Counseling is an in-depth explanation of a rule violation, including suggestions on how the inmate can correct their behavior. Before counseling an inmate, refer to the inmate’s handbook or rules and regulations manual. Separate the inmate from others during counseling and communicate profes- sionally. Make sure the inmate has a clear understanding of the rules they have broken. Explain the disciplinary process if the inmate’s behavior continues. This process could include a disciplin- ary report, possible loss of privileges, a change in custody level or work assignment, confinement, or loss of gain time. A verbal warning is a verbal statement directed to an inmate that they have committed a rule violation and should correct the behavior immediately. Explain your observations to the inmate and describe the unacceptable behavior and steps to correct it. An inmate’s behavior is unaccept- able if it clearly violates the facility rules. You can document a verbal warning in a variety of ways, including incident reports, daily logs, computer logs, an inmate’s permanent disciplinary record, or specific agency forms. 168 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 A corrective consultation (incident report or written warning) is usually an agency-specific form that documents an inmate rule violation. You will counsel the inmate about the offense and then document it on the form. Document the corrective consultation as soon as possible, and include the details of the incident, including your name, the inmate’s name and identification number, and the date, time, and location of the violation. Basically, include the who, what, where, when, why, and how of the violation and the specific corrective actions you took. You and the inmate must sign the form. If the inmate refuses to sign the form, document the refusal on the form, and provide the inmate with a copy within 24 hours of your completion of the form. An additional copy will be placed in the inmate’s institutional file. This documentation may serve as a basis for future refer- ence or formal disciplinary action. Some agencies do not require written warnings and immediately issue a disciplinary report. A disciplinary report (DR) is a detailed report of the facts surrounding an inmate’s rule violation and sets in motion a series of events that ensures due process. A DR is normally reserved for major rule violations; however, when an inmate frequently commits minor rule violations, a DR could be issued. Prior documented rule violations should be included in the report. You must write a disci- plinary report within 24 hours from when the incident is discovered. A DR should include the following: officer name; inmate name and number, if applicable; and place, date, and time of the discovered incident formal statement of the specific violation (the charge) a narrative that contains a detailed explanation of the events and supports the spe- cific violation statements from any known witnesses or participants a description of physical evidence and its disposition action taken signature of involved staff supervisor’s approval Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 169 Lesson 4 Inmate Count Lesson Goal You will be able to safely and accurately conduct different types of inmate counts. Think About This A single correctional officer is often responsible for monitoring many inmates. While it may seem simple, an effective way to keep track of these inmates is by counting them. Counts can alert you to an issue if the ending shift count was 50, and the beginning shift count was 49. Keeping these counts helps maintain the safety and security of the facility. Types of Counts One of the primary duties of correctional officers is counting inmates. Counts verify and account for every inmate within a facility or off-site area and are vital to security and safety. Counts are conducted at housing or cell assignments, work details, and any other location where an inmate may be, such as at the clinic, court, or dining hall. ✅ CO604.1. Know the main types of inmate counts Informal Count An informal count verifies the number of inmates in an area. These counts are done randomly by the supervisor of inmates who are on-site or off-site, such as the medical center, court, or work details, or during transport. A body count is a type of informal count that is a custody count of all of the inmates under your supervision and is only reported if an inmate is missing. Formal Count A formal count verifies the total number of inmates at a facility, accounting for all gains and losses during the day. A formal count is performed at least once per shift, and may be conducted at the beginning and end of your shift. A computer-generated roster is used to determine the actual number of inmates in a specific unit or housing assignment. Out Count This count provides accountability for the location of inmates outside their assigned housing area. Some examples are the canteen area, the dining area, workgroups (laundry, kitchen, or warehouses), the hospital, and court. These inmates are counted as part of the formal count. Master Count In a master count, positive identification of each inmate is verified through various items, such as armband identification or photo identification cards that include the facility number, and the 170 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 inmate’s name, date of birth, sex, and race. This count is conducted a minimum of once a day at a specified time and accounts for all inmates admitted, released, returned, or detained in the facil- ity during the previous 24-hour period. Use a current computer-generated roster and compare it to the inmates’ personal identification cards or armbands. Record and document this information according to agency policies. Emergency Count Emergency counts are conducted when unusual situations arise, such as a possible escape, a distur- bance, an evacuation, or when the total count of inmates, regardless of the type of count, is not confirmed or verified with the facility total. Some agencies refer to an emergency count as a recount. Count Procedures ✅ CO604.2. Conduct an inmate count Depending on the design of the facility, a count may require two officers. You will conduct a formal count at least once per shift. You should complete a count in a timely, systematic, and accurate manner following facility policies and procedures. You must document all types of counts except informal counts. The inmates are aware that counts occur throughout the day and that the counts can be random. You will receive an order to begin the count. The inmates will know that a count is to occur by the audible notification alarm. The inmates should report back to their assigned area for the count to begin. Common steps in the count process inside the facility include: 1. The control room, a supervisor, or the daily facility schedule will begin a count. 2. The inmates will return to their assigned housing area. 3. There is a physical count of each inmate. 4. The physical count is verified by armbands or ID cards matched against a computer- generated roster. 5. The officers making the count will document and report the totals to a supervisor or the control room staff. 6. The supervisor or assigned staff members (control room) will verify the count. 7. If every inmate was present for the count, then a clear count is announced to the staff and the inmates. 8. The facility will resume its normal operations. You must physically verify the identity and presence of each inmate. Cross-check their armbands or ID cards with facility documentation. If an inmate is in their bunk with the covers pulled up, Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 171 preventing you from seeing their face or verifying their identity, you must confirm that there is a live person in the cell. The inmates’ cooperation is required for an accurate count; however, there are occasions when inmates will try to disrupt the process. Some inmate behaviors that may interfere with proper count procedures include, but are not limited to, inmates talking, tapping on walls, not being at their assigned bunks, wearing inappropriate attire, going to the bathroom, listening to the radio, and switching identification cards. While performing a count, enforce the rules and regulations in a firm, fair, and consistent manner. Given the close proximity of the inmates during a count, stay alert and aware of your surround- ings. Maintain attention to detail to ensure an accurate count. If two officers conduct a count together, they should make sure that their count numbers match. If there is a difference, they should immediately recount the inmates in their count area before reporting the count. Report the count when the totals agree. If counts are reported from all areas in the facility and a difference is found, a recount will be conducted. If the recount does not resolve the difference, an emergency master count procedure will be announced and initiated. Use extreme caution during a recount, as an inmate may be hiding or attempting an escape. Report all count information to the appropriate supervisor or personnel for verification. Once the numbers are accurate, a clear count will be announced over the communication system of the facility. Once the count is cleared, the facility will resume normal operation. Count Slip ✅ CO604.3. Document an inmate count using a count slip A count slip is a form used to document inmate counts. There may be two types of count slips: a dormitory count slip and a formal count slip. The dormitory count slip includes the total number of inmates in a housing area, and your signature. The formal count slip may include the following information: facility name, date, time, location, officer signature, total number of inmates counted, and time cleared. The results may be docu- mented through either an electronic or handwritten form and forwarded to appropriate personnel. The count slip cannot contain erasures, strikeouts, or alterations. Verifying count slips completes the inmate counting process. 172 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Lesson 5 Inmate Dining Lesson Goal You will be able to maintain security and follow dining procedures during mealtime in a cor- rectional facility. Think About This An officer watches the line of inmates as they get their food. They notice that one inmate is car- rying their lunch tray very low and to the left. Suspicious, the officer halts the line and asks the in- mate to lift their tray higher. The inmate’s left pocket is bulging. After searching, the officer discov- ers that the inmate was attempting to leave the dining area with several utensils. How should this situation be handled? Security Check Before Meals ✅ CO605.1. Conduct a security check of the dining area prior to mealtime The dining area should be inspected for cleanliness and order to ensure health and safety. Desig- nated inmate dining areas may include a dining hall, dayroom, cell, or workgroup area. If inmates are served in cells or other common areas, a pre-mealtime security check is not neces- sary; regular searches will go on as usual. When serving meals in a dining hall, conduct a thorough and systematic security check before opening the dining facilities to inmates. Document the results on the appropriate form. The security check includes examining locations where contraband can be concealed. These areas include tables and chairs, heaters, ceiling fans, beverage containers, and trash cans. Document and report any equipment that poses a safety hazard; its use must be restricted until the equipment is repaired or replaced. Be aware that the dining area is a common location for inmates to obtain and distribute contra- band. Some examples of contraband include food, utensils, drugs, and sensitive items (food such as sugar, yeast, and fruit can be used to produce alcohol). Thoroughly search concealable areas, such as jackets, medical devices (casts, wheelchairs, or prosthetics), napkins, and containers. Make sure you account for all issued utensils, glasses, and trays. If you locate contraband, you should confiscate and process it. Inmate Monitoring During Food Distribution Depending on the type of facility, meals may be served in a dining hall or in a housing area. If meals take place in a dining facility, when mealtime is announced, inmates will report directly to the dining hall. Other inmates may need to be escorted to the designated dining area. The security level of the inmate determines the type of escort. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 173 ✅ CO605.2. Monitor food distribution during mealtime In most facilities, inmates serve the meals. Enforce all sanitation standards, making sure food handlers are properly attired in gloves, hairnets, and aprons. Observe and ensure the proper distri- bution of food, making sure each inmate receives only one tray of food and the proper number of utensils. Be aware of what foods are being served on a daily basis and ensure inmates receive the correct menu items. Also document the number of inmates and food trays served. Some inmates may have special dietary requirements because of diabetes, religious restrictions, allergies, or a need for more portions. Be aware of those differences and ensure that the correct inmate receives the proper prescribed meal. Identify, address, and correct any discrepancies. Facilities that house juveniles may have child-specific nutrition guidelines that must be followed. Compare the number of inmates who received food trays during the distribution of meals with the number of meal trays returned. The mealtime process should be orderly to ensure compliance with safety, security, and sanitation standards. Inmate Monitoring During Meals Disturbances and riots may occur in the inmate dining area. Officer positioning and patrolling are essential for effective observation of all inmate activity in the dining area. ✅ CO605.3. Monitor inmates during mealtime By walking around the dining area and making your presence known, you will be able to observe the inmates’ behavior and prevent rule violations. It will also allow you to monitor and supervise specific areas, such as the entrances, serving lines, seating areas, tray return windows, and exits. ✅ CO605.4. Conduct a security check of the dining area after mealtime Each agency establishes a policy on dining procedures that may include searching inmates who enter and exit the dining area. At the conclusion of a meal, clear the area of inmates. A security check of the dining area is then conducted to ensure the security of the facility. Conduct a post-mealtime security check in the same manner as a pre-mealtime security check. This check includes serving utensils. Following these policies ensures a safe and secure dining area. 174 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Lesson 6 Processing Mail Lesson Goal You will be able to process mail in a correctional facility. Think About This A college professor wanted to send surveys to inmates for a research project. The mail packets were simple: they contained only the paper survey and a pre-stamped envelope to return the sur- vey. The facility’s mail processor caught the mistake immediately. What was the problem? Types of Inmate Mail ✅ CO606.1. Know the types of mail an inmate may receive in a correctional facility Inmates are allowed to receive three types of mail: routine, legal, and privileged. Routine mail—includes all mail received by inmates, such as letters, magazines, news- papers, periodicals, and book subscriptions that have not been tampered with and were received directly from the publisher or supplier. Routine mail is the most common type of mail in a correctional facility and comes directly through the postal service. Legal mail—contains confidential information concerning legal matters and includes mail to and from municipal, county, state, and federal courts as well as state attorneys, private attorneys, public defenders, legal aid organizations, and agency clerks. Privileged mail—consists of correspondence to and from public officials, government agen- cies, and the news media. Privileged mail is delivered to a facility by the U.S. Postal Service. Processing Mail There is no limit to the amount of mail that an inmate may receive, but there is a limit to the amount of mail that an inmate may possess. All mail must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service. ✅ CO606.2. Process inmate routine mail to include inspecting for contraband When mail is received by the mailroom or mail clerk, it must be logged. All mail is opened by designated staff and is examined for content and to prevent introduction of contraband. People inspecting mail should use PPE to prevent exposure to contaminants, such as fecal matter, blood, and body fluids or other hazardous materials that may be found inside or outside of mail. Some hazardous materials are harmful if inhaled, but they may not be easily recognized. One example is fentanyl, which, in a fine-powdered form, can be fatal if inhaled and left untreated. Use caution when opening the mail, and never smell the contents to identify it. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 175 The content of the mail is scanned for pornography, information about criminal activity, codes, threats to the facility, threats or evidence of extortion against staff or other inmates, and escape plans, including dates, times, or arrangements for clothing and transportation. It is also scanned to ensure victims or witnesses are not contacting the inmate. When inspecting mail for contraband, check the texture of the mail to determine if it is brittle or stained. An odd texture could indicate the presence of drugs, body fluids, or hidden messages. Inspect stamps or stickers placed on paper and envelopes to determine if any alteration has been made. These are potential concealment sites for contraband and can be laced with drugs. Drugs or other substances can be concealed in the glue of the stamp and envelopes, in the folds of the paper, as watermarks, between two pieces of paper glued together, or in concealed areas within poly-bubble envelopes. No mail is delivered directly to the inmate before inspection. Once the mail is cleared, it is sent to the housing area. The identification of the inmate is verified, and the mail is delivered. Delivery methods vary between agencies and must be handled accord- ing to agency policies and procedures. ✅ CO606.3. Process inmate legal mail Legal and privileged mail is handled differently than routine mail. While you may inspect the outside of the envelope, you can open it only in the presence of the inmate to whom it is addressed. When the inmate opens the envelope or package, you can inspect it for contraband, but you must not read the content of legal or privileged mail. Document that the inmate received the legal or privi- leged mail on the Incoming Legal or Privileged Mail Log. Legal mail cannot be withheld from an inmate for disciplinary action and must be delivered within 24 hours of receipt. To ensure that the legal mail is authentic, confirm the letterhead has the proper return address and a raised seal or watermark, and verify that the correspondent is a legitimate legal source. Inmates can receive packages only with special permission. The packages must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service. All packages should be thoroughly searched for items such as drugs, cell phones, money, and inappropriate photographs. Outgoing Mail ✅ CO606.4. Process inmate outgoing mail In the same manner as incoming routine mail, outgoing routine mail should be inspected for contra- band and security violations. Mail should be scanned for adequate postage and proper address format of the sender and recipient. Inspect the mail to make sure the correspondence is allowed and that the address is legitimate. Mail may be held to make sure it is legitimate. Forward approved outgoing mail in accordance with agency policies and procedures for delivery. Mail should be processed only through the U.S. Postal Service and never personally carried out of the facility. 176 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Confiscation of Mail ✅ CO606.5. Know how to confiscate incoming and outgoing mail in a correctional facility Any mail that violates agency policies or threatens security may be confiscated. If the mail contains unauthorized items (such as too many photographs), return it to the sender with a copy of the mail rules. Confiscate any illegal items found in mail. Disciplinary action could follow, and the confis- cated item may become evidence in a disciplinary hearing or criminal case. Make sure to use proper evidence-handling procedures. If you confiscate outgoing inmate mail due to a rule violation, contact your supervisor. All mail—routine, legal, and privileged—must comply with facility rules. An inmate may correspond only with approved people. Inmates must receive special permission to contact one another by mail. For example, a husband and wife who are both incarcerated must get permission before corresponding. However, correspondence with victims or witnesses and between codefendants and security threat group members is prohibited. Depending on the circumstances, other legal restrictions may apply to inmate communication. Kickback or three-way mail is a common method used by inmates to send unauthorized communi- cations to other inmates within the same facility or other institutions. The sender uses the intended inmate’s location as the return address on the envelope and includes a deficiency such as insuffi- cient postage, requiring the envelope to be returned. The envelope is thus returned to the intended inmate instead of the sender. Check the return address before returning mail to an inmate and note if the return address is for another housing unit or facility. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 177 Lesson 7 Visitation Lesson Goal You will be able to supervise inmate visitation while maintaining officer, visitor, and inmate safety and facility security. Think About This A visitor comes to the facility to meet with one of the inmates. She is visibly sweating, and her voice sounds nervous as she asks to sign in. Her eyes dart back and forth. Is this behavior a problem for the facility? Should she be allowed to continue her visit? Types of Inmate Visits Visitation is a privilege and not a right for inmates and visitors (Rule 33-601.714, F.A.C.). Visitors and inmates can lose this privilege because of inappropriate conduct, rule violations, or by introducing contraband. Visitors may not understand the operation of a correctional facility. When subjecting visitors to security measures, speak clearly and courteously to make sure the visitor understands any directions you give. ✅ CO607.1. Know the difference between contact visits and non-contact visits All visits within a correctional facility can be classified as either contact or non-contact visits. Contact visits are visits in which both the visitor and the inmate are in the same room, without a physical barrier and can have limited physical contact. Non-contact visits are visits in which the inmate and visitor are physically separated by some type of barrier or communicate using electronic equip- ment, such as an audio and video communication system. An inmate may receive two types of visitors, social and professional. Social visitors may include friends and family. Some agencies require social visitors to be preregistered and screened for crimi- nal histories or active warrants. Agencies may also limit the number of social visitors an inmate may receive at one time or within a specified period of time. A professional visitor may include attorneys and staff employed by attorneys, investigators, bail bondsmen, parole and probation officers, law enforcement officers, social service agency staff, and clergy. Professional visitors are processed in a manner similar to social visitors. Training academies, schools, or self-help or religious groups visiting a correctional facility may be subject to the same search procedures. These are usually preapproved visits with staff escorts to a designated area or for a tour of the facility. Most visits occur at the correctional facility. However, occasionally inmates being treated at outside medical facilities could receive visitors. These visits are usually for inmates who are terminally ill, and are receiving social visitors at the discretion of the correctional agency. 178 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Facility Security and Visitor Identification and Authorization Visitation and entry requirements vary considerably from state correctional institutions to munic- ipal and county facilities. Confirmation of visitor identification is necessary for authorized entry into all facilities. ✅ CO607.2. Know the valid forms of identification and security equipment required for different types of visitors in a correctional facility All visitors must present valid photo identification. Valid forms of identification include government- issued photo identification, driver’s license or identification card, military identification, agency- issued identification, or passport. It a crime to present a false ID (s. 944.39, F.S.). The purpose of the person’s visit will determine the types of security equipment issued. You will need to determine if a visit is social or professional. Social visits are conducted on a specific sched- ule on designated days and times, whereas professional visits may be permitted at any time. Any special equipment or requirement for professional visitors varies from agency to agency. Some agencies may use closed-circuit television systems to monitor visitor movement, while others may issue personal body alarms that the visitor can activate in an emergency, alerting security personnel to potential threats and the need to respond immediately. Some agencies provide security escorts for visitors throughout the facility. When a visitor requests to meet with an inmate, verify the reason through either a published sched- ule or a shift supervisor’s authorization according to facility policies. Direct any question regarding the validity of the purpose for the visit to the supervisor. Once a visitor is approved, direct them to the visitor registration area. As part of the registration process, the visitor’s identification information is recorded, along with the date and time of entry and exit, the purpose of the visit, and the person visited. Visitors must sign in and should be told what items are permitted in the visitation area. Correctional agencies maintain visitor registration logs as a permanent record. These logs are for accountability purposes to prove that an inmate’s rights have not been violated (such as for attorney visits), and for emer- gency evacuation purposes. ✅ CO607.3. Search the visitation area for safety hazards and security issues before a visitation Conduct a systematic search of the visiting area before allowing inmates or visitors access. The area should be free of contraband and any potentially hazardous material. Inspect the equipment and furniture in the visitation area to make sure they are in working order. Search the restrooms in the same manner. Resolve any issues before allowing visitation to occur. ✅ CO607.4. Search visitors for contraband before admitting them to the visitation area Visitors are searched to control the introduction of contraband into the facility. This search is accomplished by various methods, such as metal detectors, pat-down searches, and visual inspec- tion. All objects a visitor brings are subject to search, whether visually, with an X-ray machine, or by other electronic means. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 179 Contraband is commonly found on visitors. Not all items that are considered to be contraband in a correctional facility are criminal in nature or pose an immediate threat to the safety or security of the facility. For example, most facilities consider personal keys as contraband, since keys are sharp implements and could be dangerous. The visitor will likely be told to return the keys to their car or place them in a secure location until they leave. If a visitor is found with contraband that poses an immediate threat to the facility’s safety or security, it will be confiscated and may be processed as evidence. Confiscate all contraband of a criminal nature, such as unauthorized cell phones, weap- ons, drugs, and intoxicants. The visitor is then subject to criminal prosecution, and visitation privi- leges may be terminated. All confiscated property will follow the chain of custody. Take necessary precautions to preserve evidence that would aid in an investigation. ✅ CO607.5. Direct visitors to the visitation area while maintaining facility safety and security standards After registering and searching, visitors are either verbally directed or escorted by an officer to the visitation area. In either instance, you must maintain the safety of the visitor and the security. Visits may occur in other designated areas as approved by the officer in charge. These may include a medical center or confinement area. In such instances, it may be necessary to escort the visitor to the alternate location. Remember attorney-client visits are privileged and must follow approved guidelines. Inmate Notification of Visit and Search ✅ CO607.6. Know the process for notifying an inmate of visitor arrival in the designated visitation area When visitors arrive at the facility and have been approved for visitation, the inmate is properly identified and informed of the visit. The inmate may either accept or decline the visit. Document if the inmate declines the visit. If the inmate declines the visit, the visitor registration area is advised, and the visitor is informed and asked to leave. ✅ CO607.7. Search an inmate before entering the visitation area For inmates accepting visitors, search the inmate for contraband before the visit. Visually inspect inmates to make sure they comply with the facility dress code. Depending on the facility layout and agency policies or procedures, verbally direct, monitor, or escort the inmate to the designated visitation area. Monitoring the Visit ✅ CO607.8. Monitor an inmate and visitor during a visitation Continually observe the conduct of the inmate and visitor for general rule violations such as exces- sive noise, vulgarity, sexual misconduct, introduction of contraband, and altercations. Take imme- diate action if you observe a rule violation. 180 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Even though all visitors are searched before entering the visitation area, contraband can still be introduced to the facility during visitation. For example, visitors may smuggle contraband through security checkpoints by “ballooning,” which is when contraband is placed in a sealed balloon and concealed in a body cavity or swallowed for later expulsion. You should pay particular attention to inmate and visitor activity after a visitor exits a restroom. While in the restroom, the visitor may retrieve the concealed contraband and later pass it to an inmate or hide it in the visitation area. If you observe a visitor with contraband, the visitor may be detained. If an issue arises that you cannot control or that is beyond your authority, call for backup. You may end the visit, permanently restrict the visitor from the facility, and discipline the inmate. Document any actions taken. During and after visitation, monitor inmates for emotional reactions that require referral to service providers, such as a mental health professional or chaplain. Exiting the Visitation Area ✅ CO607.9. Complete inmate visitation while maintaining facility safety and security standards At the end of visitation, ensure the inmates and visitors are separated. Explain to the visitors where and how to exit the visitation area. Verify that all visitors have left the visitation area, and confirm the identity of each visitor before they exit the facility. Update the visitation log to reflect that the visitor has departed. Be aware that contraband could be concealed in the visitation area to be recovered by an inmate at a later time. Systematically search the visitation area and restrooms upon conclusion of the visit. The area should be free of contraband or any potentially hazardous material. If you discover contraband, confiscate it, maintain chain of custody, and contact your supervisor. At the conclusion of the visit, the inmates should be segregated and monitored pending a thor- ough search. Inmates exiting a contact visit are searched to make sure no contraband enters the facility. Process any contraband found according to agency policies and procedures. When done with the search, direct or escort the inmate back to their assigned area and complete the search documentation. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 181 Lesson 8 Escorting Inmates Lesson Goal You will know how to safely escort an inmate within and outside of a correctional facility. Think About This Escorting inmates requires the use of officer safety procedures to ensure the safe and timely move- ment of an inmate from one location to another. Escorting may be as simple as walking with a single unrestrained inmate from different locations or as complex as accompanying a group of fully restrained inmates. Escort Considerations An escort is the movement of an inmate from one point to another accompanied by an officer or staff member. You may conduct two types of escorts in a correctional setting. Internal escorts are conducted within the facility’s secure perimeter. External escorts occur outside the secure perim- eter of the facility. ✅ CO608.1. Count and search inmates to begin the escorting process You will receive oral or written instructions to escort inmates, including which inmates will be escorted and their destination. Inmates must be positively identified before departing. Take an accurate count of the inmates and notify appropriate staff of the number of inmates to be escorted and their destination. The reason for an escort, the number of inmates, and the inmate classifica- tion may determine the number of officers needed for the escort and the level of physical restraint required. Reasons for an escort may include medical, workgroup assignments, mental health services, and visitation. Additional staff may also be necessary. Before escorting an inmate, conduct a frisk for weapons or contraband. Some facilities require strip searches when inmates are escorted outside of or returning to the facility. To ensure the safety of the inmates, consider any limitations and the physical condition of the inmate to be escorted, such as missing limbs, paralysis, obesity, prosthetic devices, crutches, or wheelchairs. All medical equipment or prosthetic devices require a search for contraband. You should not, however, pay attention only to disabilities, as extraordinarily physically fit inmates should also be of concern. Inmates who have acute or chronic medical conditions or serious injury may require additional specialized equipment during an escort. Examples include inmates with respiratory illness, broken limbs, gunshot wounds, cardiovascular diseases, and mental illness. ✅ CO608.2. Escort inmates while maintaining facility safety and security standards Stay aware of your surroundings at all times while escorting an inmate. Position yourself to the rear and slightly to one side of the inmate to control movement. Escorting officers should be familiar with diversionary tactics of inmates. During movement, contraband may be introduced, the inmate 182 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 may commit battery, or the inmate may attempt to escape. Some equipment that officers may use while escorting inmates includes handcuffs, leg-irons, waist chains, and restraint chairs. Escort techniques and equipment are further discussed in the Defensive Tactics portion of the curriculum. ✅ CO608.3. Complete escorting inmates to include documentation After completing the escort, confirm that the number and identity of the inmates arriving at the destination match the original record of the inmates departing. Contact the appropriate staff member to notify them of the escort’s completion, and document the escort as required. External escorts could be an outside work detail, a chase vehicle following an ambulance, or any other escort outside the security perimeter of the facility. Follow agency policies and procedures with external escorts. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 183 Lesson 9 Transporting Inmates Lesson Goal You will be able to transport inmates of all classifications while maintaining safety and secu- rity standards. Think About This Moving an inmate from one area to another, even if only from the facility to a courtroom, presents a potentially dangerous situation. Many inmates try to use the time between locations, and outside of the facility’s gates, to attempt an escape. You will need to know the security issues that arise with transporting inmates to prevent risk to yourself and the community. Transport is defined as moving an inmate from the confines of a secure facility to another location outside the facility. Inmate transport is a routine operation. Be continually aware of your surround- ings during inmate transport, including inmate behaviors, the public, the transport vehicle, other vehicles, traffic, and the security at the destination. Other potential security issues you may encoun- ter include vehicle accidents, mechanical failure, or interaction with the general public. Reasons for inmate transport include medical treatments at local facilities or offices, transfers, work assign- ments, confinement, and required court appearances within and between jurisdictions. Choosing a Transport Vehicle ✅ CO609.1. Know the function of each type of inmate transport vehicle There are several types of transport vehicles with specialized security or accommodation equip- ment. These may include: a transport bus or van with cages, extra locks, and isolation seats a van with negative pressure ventilation and wheelchair accessibility a car with cages Determine what type of transport vehicle is required by considering how many inmates are to be transferred; the custody levels, gender, and special needs of the inmates; and the purpose of the transport. You may need to segregate inmates in separate vehicles or separate compartments within the transport vehicle. The following groups of inmates must be transported in separate compartments: male and female inmates, juveniles and adults, high-profile inmates, and violent inmates (who must be separated from others). Whenever possible, transport inmates in secure compartments without access to the driver. 184 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Figure 6-1 Interior of a transport van Figure 6-2 Example of a typical transport vehicle with partitions and screens Lower-custody inmates, such as those assigned to workgroups or squads, may be transported in vehicles without cages and partitions. Certain custody levels require transport vehicles with secure cages and partitions; these types of transports may also require trailing or chase vehicles. A trailing or chase vehicle is an armed escort vehicle used to follow or trail a transport vehicle to provide additional security. These vehicles are often used when the transport is a high-level threat, such as when transporting a death-row inmate. Transport Vehicle Inspection and Search ✅ CO609.2. Inspect an inmate transport vehicle for safety and contraband It is your responsibility to systematically inspect the transport vehicle for mechanical deficiencies and possible security breaches, and to make sure the vehicle is properly equipped and in good working order. Make sure that the vehicle is fueled, fluid levels are sufficient, and tires are prop- erly inflated. Check that all equipment functions properly, including the radio, issued cell phone, brakes, spare tire and jack, horn, lights, seat belts, wipers, mirrors, security equipment, and locks. Some agencies may require equipment such as safety reflectors, a fire extinguisher, or a first-aid kit. Document the inspection results on the designated agency-approved form. Note any deficien- cies and, if necessary, submit a work order. Notify your supervisor if further instructions are neces- sary. Any discrepancies should be corrected. Do not use the vehicle until repairs are performed. Apply systematic area search techniques to the inside and outside of the transport vehicle. These searches are done to make sure there is no contraband present before and after inmate trans- port. Pay particular attention to the secure compartments where the inmates will be or have been seated. Common components of the vehicle, such as bolts, screws, and parts of seat belts, can be removed quickly and without notice. Such items can be made into weapons or other contraband. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 185 Security Issues ✅ CO609.3. Park an inmate transport vehicle while maintaining safety and security standards When the vehicle has entered the designated area, such as a sally port, secure the inmates in the vehicle. When loading or unloading inmates from a non-secure area, such as a hospital, tactically position the vehicle to prevent escape or ambush. If you observe security concerns, contact a supervisor or local law enforcement for assistance. Figure 6-3 Examples of typical security restraint devices used on inmates during transport Generally, keep all inmates restrained during transport. However, you must not restrain inmates to the vehicle except by the use of standard seat belts and shoulder harnesses. An inmate’s custody level will determine the level of restraint required during transport. You must take the limitations and physical attributes of the inmate into consideration when determining the types of restraints to use. ✅ CO609.4. Know the functions of the different types of inmate transport vehicle security devices The various security restraint devices that can be used on an inmate when in transport include hand or ankle cuffs, waist chains or cuffs, black boxes (hard interlocking cover for handcuffs and waist chains), leg braces, and an electronic control belt. Transport vehicle security devices, such as security cages, partitions, and screens, are all physical barriers installed in vehicles to segregate the various types of inmates as well as separate the inmates from the officers. 186 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Transport Documentation ✅ CO609.5. Know the role of inmate transport documents Before departing, make sure you have the proper authorization and documentation to transport the inmate(s). These documents may include a court order, court docket, face sheet, transport request, or TWIX (a Department of Corrections computerized message). A face sheet is a docu- ment with a current picture of the inmate, name, inmate identification number, physical descrip- tion, incarceration date, date of birth, end of sentence date, and custody level. Once you have verified transport documents, confirm the identity and total number of inmates. Check the count at departure and again at arrival. You must make certain that all required trans- port documentation goes with you to the destination. Securing the Inmate and Staff Notification of Transport An important part of the transport process is searching the inmate. Remove the inmates identified for transport from the general population and move them to a secured area. ✅ CO609.6. Secure the inmate in the transport vehicle while maintaining safety and security standards Verify that they wear proper attire, search each individual inmate before transport, and secure the inmates. Once you have properly applied security restraint devices, place the inmates in the transport vehicle. Situate the inmates in segregated compartments if required. Apply seat belts to all inmates. Officers and inmates must adhere to the Florida Safety Belt Law, and the number of inmates transported cannot exceed the vehicle passenger capacity. According to agency policies and procedures, you may be assigned a firearm and duty gear. Make sure that the firearm is in good condition and has ammunition. You should also wear available body armor. ✅ CO609.7. Transport the inmate while maintaining safety and security standards A transport plan should include a primary and an alternative route. Be aware that inmates may create diversions to provide opportunity for escape. Routine routes should be varied to reduce the risk of outside assaults. During transport, if an inmate becomes non-compliant, combative, or disorderly or complains of a medical condition, do not stop the transport. Many doctors’ offices will not see disruptive inmates. The courts are also hesitant to hold legal proceedings with inmates who cannot conform to courtroom decorum. Immediately contact your agency with all appropriate information and follow instructions. If the transport vehicle encounters any unforeseen situations, such as a vehicle crash, mechanical failure, or a problem with the primary route, immediately make sure that the inmates are secure. In such cases, contact the local law enforcement agency for assistance and notify your supervisor for further instruction. When contacting local agencies, provide as much information as possible. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 187 Maintain communication with the facility and provide necessary information during transport, such as the direction of travel, the primary and alternative routes, the number of inmates, the time of departure, the beginning and ending mileage, the destination, and the predicted time of arrival. Provide status updates and time of arrival at the destination. Information provided by the trans- port officer will be documented by the agency’s control room. Document any unusual occurrences on an agency form (incident report) and include all relevant information. In some circumstances, a transport could result in a transfer. A transfer is movement of an inmate from one housing location to another. For example, an inmate’s routine medical appointment could result in hospitalization. If this occurs, contact your agency for specific instructions. Upon conclusion of the transport, again perform a vehicle inspection and note any damage. Check the vehicle’s fluids, and make sure that the vehicle is clean, refueled, and parked in the designated area. Complete the vehicle inspection documentation as required. 188 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 Lesson 10 Work Squads Lesson Goal You will know how to monitor inmates during an inside or outside work detail. Think About This As difficult as it is to monitor inmates within a facility, you can imagine how difficult it is to monitor inmates without the help of walls, gates, and cameras. This is a correctional officer’s responsibility when they are supervising an outside work detail. Many inmates have work responsibilities within the correctional system. Classification is respon- sible for assigning inmates to a work detail. Medical will screen, approve, and train the inmate for job assignments. These assignments could be inside or outside the correctional facilities. Work crews or squads that do not go beyond the security perimeter of a facility are considered inside. Any squad or detail that works beyond the perimeter is considered an outside work squad. Inside and Outside Work Squads Correctional facility work squads perform a variety of services that provide a cost benefit to state and local governments. ✅ CO6010.1. Know the differences between inside and outside work squads Inside work squads assist with maintenance, sanitation, food service, library, medical, laundry, and other duties as assigned. Inmates on outside work squads usually perform road maintenance, grounds maintenance, sanitation, farming, and other assigned duties. In certain circumstances, some inmates are allowed to leave the facility without supervision for work. These inmates may be on a work release or continued employment program. ✅ CO6010.2. Verify an inmate’s identity for inside or outside work details Verify an inmate’s identity on an inside or outside work squad by comparing the inmate’s issued ID card with the work squad roster and the inmate. Officers assigned to outside work squads are required to verify each inmate’s identity before they exit the facility. You should inspect the iden- tification for obvious signs of tampering, making sure that the identification card is valid. If you suspect that the identification card is altered or the inmate is concealing their actual identity, confiscate the card and immediately contact a supervisor for further instruction. ✅ CO6010.3. Search an inmate before and after an inside or outside work detail Search inmates for contraband before and after the work assignment. The type of search may depend on the type of work assignment, the location, and the equipment used during the work detail. Perform a pat down or strip search, depending on the agency’s policies. While conducting a search, make sure the inmates are properly dressed for the work squad. Inmates who fail to comply Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 189 with rules and regulations, such as dress codes, will be subject to disciplinary action. If an inmate cannot perform the assignment, notify your supervisor. ✅ CO6010.4. Maintain accountability of an inside or outside work detail The officer supervising the work squad must maintain an ongoing count of the inmates under their supervision. This count begins when you take custody of the inmates for the work assignment. Counting is particularly important when changing work locations. The specific reporting procedure varies from agency to agency. Count, document, and report the number of inmates when leaving the facility, as you arrive at the destination, after any other change in location, when leaving the work site, and upon arrival back at the facility. Document the inmates’ names, numbers, work loca- tion, and the total number of inmates in the workgroup. Search the work area to provide safety and security before allowing inmates access. Vary the method and timing of searches conducted for regularly scheduled work locations so as not to set a pattern or routine. When searching, you should remove any potentially hazardous material. Work areas outside the facility are potential contraband drop-off sites, especially when the work assignment extends beyond one workday. If a work assignment is regularly scheduled, inmates can arrange for contraband to be dropped off at a predetermined location. The inmate will then return to the site and retrieve the contraband. Instructions for Work Details ✅ CO6010.5. Maintain inmate safety and security during an inside or outside work detail Before each new job assignment, conduct and document safety training for the inmates. Ensure you issue the proper work and safety equipment to all inmates assigned to the work detail. Safety equipment may include safety goggles, hearing protection, or gloves. Before allowing the inmates to work, inspect equipment to ensure proper working order and verify the item has not been altered. This inspection should take place both before issuing the equipment to the inmate and after it has been returned. It is the work squad officer’s responsibility to maintain accountability for equipment used by inmates at all times. Explain the boundaries of the work site and remind inmates in the work area of the rules regard- ing inmate behavior. Demonstrate how to use any work equipment and answer any questions the inmates may have concerning the assigned work. It is your responsibility to supervise work performance, maintain safety and security of the squad, notify your supervisor of any problems that arise, and document all training. Monitoring Inmates During Work Detail ✅ CO6010.6. Monitor inmates during an inside or outside work detail While monitoring a work detail, ensure the inmates are doing the following: completing the work assignment in a timely manner operating the equipment as trained 190 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1  not damaging or altering the equipment or other items in the work area wearing issued safety equipment properly not interacting with the public wearing proper clothing staying within the assigned work area Immediately correct any deviation from the instructions given and document as necessary. Report any injuries or illness at the work site immediately and ensure the inmate receives appropriate treat- ment. In the event of a life-threatening emergency, immediately request local emergency medical services, notify your agency, and request additional support as needed. Allow for required rest periods, proper hydration, meal breaks, and restroom use. Search restroom facilities before use and verify the locations to discourage possible escape attempts and intro- duction of contraband. During work periods or restroom breaks, secure and monitor the vehicle constantly to ensure no contraband is introduced. If an inmate becomes non-compliant, combative, or disorderly during a work assignment, contact the control room or local law enforcement for assistance and use the amount of force necessary to control the inmate and protect the public. In the event of an escape, immediately assemble the remaining inmates and notify the facility that an escape has occurred. Do not abandon the remain- ing inmates in an attempt to capture the escaping inmate. Completion of Work Detail ✅ CO6010.7. Maintain facility and inmate safety and security at the end of an inside or outside work detail At the end of the work detail, instruct the inmates to secure all equipment and thoroughly search the work area to ensure they have not left any tools, materials, notes, or contraband behind. The ease of obtaining contraband during a work assignment requires that you conduct a thorough search of each inmate upon return to the facility. Remove the inmates from the transport vehicle and escort them into a secure area to conduct the searches. Some facilities require that returning inmates are strip searched. Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 191 Lesson 11 Hospital Assignments Lesson Goal You will maintain custody of an inmate during a hospital assignment. Think About This An officer is monitoring an inmate during a hospital assignment. The inmate asks to use the re- stroom. The officer removes the inmate’s restraints and stands guard outside the restroom door. Meanwhile, the inmate climbs through the roof of the restroom and attempts an escape. Fortu- nately, the inmate falls through the ceiling and is recaptured. Could anything have been done to prevent the situation? Communicating Security Concerns With Medical Staff ✅ CO6011.1. Communicate with medical staff about inmate security concerns When you arrive at the hospital, give any accompanying medical records to hospital staff. Speak with medical staff if you have security concerns that may affect the care of the inmate. These concerns may include: unauthorized visitation safety and suicide precautions unauthorized phone access access to items that are considered contraband in a correctional facility Hospital staff may assist with moving the inmate throughout the facility. However, it is your respon- sibility to maintain security. General Officer Responsibilities ✅ CO6011.2. Maintain inmate safety and hospital security during hospital assignments When you are assigned hospital duty for an inmate, upon arrival or start of a shift notify your super- visor or control room staff of the arrival, room number, and the inmate’s condition. Survey the area in which the inmate is being held for potential security threats. Remove unnecessary medi- cal equipment, furnishings, and hospital personnel from the immediate area if possible. Conduct a visual search of the inmate, the room, and any adjacent rooms, such as bathroom facilities that the inmate may use during their stay. Systematically inspect and secure all windows and second- ary exits if possible. Inspect all restraints used on the inmate to ensure proper security. Correct and immediately report any discrepancies to your supervisor. 192 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1 When applying, removing, or checking restraints, be aware of your weapon retention techniques, as you are near the inmate. Stand strategically between the inmate and other people or the door. If the inmate is in isolation, station yourself outside the door. If the inmate is in the operating room or intensive care unit (ICU), follow the direction of hospital staff, but do not violate correctional agency policies or procedures. Contact your supervisor immediately if a conflict occurs between hospital and agency policy. Do not allow the inmate to have contact with the public. If the security of the inmate is compro- mised due to public contact, notify your supervisor immediately to determine what additional security measures may be necessary. Inmate deathbed visit requests by family members will be addressed by agency administration on a case-by-case basis. Restraint Issues ✅ CO6011.3. Know the role of security restraint devices during hospital assignments Security restraint devices, such as shackles, handcuffs, or flex cuffs, may be used to secure an inmate in the hospital. It is common practice for officers to apply one leg restraint to the inmate and the other to the bed frame and not the bed rail, to prevent unauthorized movement. Security restraint devices may be removed temporarily, with the approval of the facility officer-in-charge, to conduct medical tests or procedures. Removing handcuffs and leg restraints at the same time is not recommended unless medically necessary; however, in such cases, take additional security measures. Reapply restraints once the test, procedure, or examination has been completed. Restraints may not be used on a prisoner who is known to be pregnant during the third trimes- ter, or during labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery unless you make a determination that the prisoner presents a substantial flight risk or some other extraordinary medical or security circum- stance that dictates restraints should be used. There are restrictions on the types and placement of restraint devices on pregnant prisoners. Follow your agency’s policy. If a licensed health care professional requests all restraints be removed, inform them of all pertinent security concerns regarding the inmate. ✅ CO6011.4. Know the role of clinical restraints and clinical seclusion during hospital assignments Inmates may also be controlled through other methods. Clinical restraints are measures that keep inmate-patients from injuring themselves and are ordered by the attending physician in a medical facility. Clinical seclusion is the isolation of an inmate from the general population at a medical facility for medical and safety reasons and may include placing the inmate in a padded room or a straight- jacket for their safety. The attending physician has sole discretion on the application or removal of clinical restraints and placement in or out of clinical seclusion based on specific medical needs. Inmate Medical Emergencies Inmate medical emergencies are chaotic events, and may involve multiple medical personnel responding to the situation. Remember that security measures must not interfere with medical Chapter 6 Supervising in a Correctional Facility / 193 life-saving intervention, so monitor all activity and maintain a balance between security and medi- cal treatment. ✅ CO6011.5. Maintain inmate safety and hospital security during inmate medical emergencies in a hospital setting Notify the nearest medical personnel for assistance if an inmate exhibits any of the following: signs of medical distress, such as difficulty breathing, extreme sweating, nausea, extreme bleeding, or paralysis dislodging of medical devices or equipment, such as intravenous (IV) lines or monitors a medical situation beyond your training and abilities You must complete an incident report as soon as possible after the medical emergency has been resolved. 194 / Florida Basic Recruit Training Program (CO): Volume 1