NCJ Number
75576
Journal
Court Management Journal Volume: 3 Dated: (January 1981) Pages: 8-12
Date Published
1981
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Several issues of courthouse security are discussed including various aspects of building design, electronic security equipment, and security staffing and organization.
Abstract
Well designed courthouses can offer opportunities for considerable savings on equipment and security staff costs. Areas which courthouse architects should consider when designing buildings include building entrances, visibility, traffic circulation, emergency exits, security zoning, window and door composition and locks, and lighting and signs. Architects should consider the security requirements of groups of related buildings as an entity. Electronic security equipment can only function as effectively as the security personnel who use it. Electronic systems usually consist of methods for controlling entrances, perimeter intrusion detection, and audio and video communications systems. Human security staff represents the most expensive of courthouse security systems. Security staff should be in good physical condition, should receive initial training, and should be kept up to date through inservice training experience. Security techniques are assessed based on their use in New York State courthouses. Four publications are listed as suggested readings.