NCJ Number
154541
Journal
Sheriff Volume: 47 Issue: 2 Dated: (March-April 1995) Pages: 18-19,48
Date Published
1995
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article provides guidelines for the assessment and selection of a provider of telephone service for inmates.
Abstract
The first consideration when researching telephone-service providers is to determine whether the provider offers the options needed. The most important service characteristic is its capability for preventing inmate abuses, such as avoidance of charges, harassment of witnesses and others, and drug dealing. After determining which companies can provide the type of system required, the qualifications and experience of these companies should be reviewed. Sources for such information include the State public service utility commission, the Federal Communications Commission, and clients who have used the company's services. Once it has been determined which companies can provide the services required in a reliable manner, commission arrangements must be assessed. Information should be obtained on the percentage of revenue that will be received by the facility and on what the percentage is based. Detailed terms for the commission should be written into the contract. The contract should contain an "out" clause, which would allow the facility to terminate the agreement if the provider fails to adhere to the contract terms within a certain time frame.