Handling Severe Rule Violations When Solitary Confinement Capacity is Exceeded

Introduction

In the realm of corrections and inmate management, addressing severe rule violations can be a challenging task, especially when the number of offenders exceeds the available solitary confinement cells, or 'hole'. This article explores the various strategies and measures that prison staff can undertake to ensure discipline and maintain order, particularly when solitary confinement capacity is exceeded.

Strategies for Controlling Inmate Movement

Prison staff have several options at their disposal to address this issue, primarily focusing on restricting inmate movement and implementing strict lockdowns. These measures are vital in maintaining security and order within the prison facility.

Cell Housing Units

For prison facilities with cell housing units, a standard procedure is to implement lockdowns by preventing inmates from leaving their cells. This can be achieved through non-sanctional movements, such as requiring medical appointments or personal hygiene activities like showering. In my experience, this process was known as disciplinary segregation.

The lockdown could range from individual cells to entire housing units and occasionally, on rare occasions, the entire prison. For instance, I was confined to my cell for 90 days and the housing unit remained locked down for over 45 days.

Lockdown Protocols

During these periods, inmates were allowed out of their cells only 3 times a week for a 15-minute shower. These movements were supervised by corrections officers (COs) who escorted the inmates.

In cases where special medical emergencies required, inmates were permitted to leave their cells, but in all other circumstances, they remained confined.

Dormitory Housing Units

Prisons that use dormitory-style housing units face different challenges, primarily related to supervising inmates and ensuring individual confinement when necessary. Inmates are often restricted to their bunks or bays within the dormitory to prevent them from associating with others who could plan further infractions.

Bunk and Bay Restrictions

A bunk is a sleeping space, and a bay consists of several bunks. Thus, under a bay restriction, inmates are confined to their specific bay and supervised by control room officers who monitor their activities.

Isolating Riskier Inmates

When the need arises to ensure individual security or prevent group planning, spaces in the solitary confinement unit may be made available by temporarily releasing low-risk inmates.

Limitations and Practical Considerations

Practical limitations exist, such as the availability of solitary confinement capacity and the transport of inmates to other prisons. For instance, in Utah, where I served, there were only two prisons, making inter-prison transfers an impractical solution.

Despite these constraints, prison administrators must implement strict measures to address severe infractions and maintain order. The ultimate goal is to ensure that discipline is maintained and that the safety of all inmates is prioritized.

Conclusion: Ensuring order and discipline in the face of limited solitary confinement capacity requires creativity and flexibility from prison staff. Lockdowns and restrictive movements are some of the most effective strategies, but practical considerations and limitations must be taken into account to achieve the best outcomes.