NCJ Number
152045
Journal
Police and Security News Volume: 10 Issue: 6 Dated: (November/December 1994) Pages: 19-25,27
Date Published
1994
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Following some examples of security threats to court facilities and personnel, this article discusses how to plan and establish a security system for court facilities.
Abstract
The first step is to recognize security weaknesses. This can be done by conducting a security survey of the physical plant, with attention to how various areas of the court building are used and the security requirements, potential threats, and personnel and public use associated with each area. Areas that require particular security attention are identified. Ways of hardening the targets are suggested, including security for the judge, other court personnel, and the courtroom. Electronic aids that enhance surveillance and the identification of threats are reviewed. Other security guidelines pertain to the use of "people skills" so as to reduce security threats, planning for emergencies, security procedures for high-profile trials, and personal security in general and while in transit. The issue of whether or not to arm judges and prosecutors is discussed, and future security needs are projected.