NCJ Number
95611
Date Published
1983
Length
156 pages
Annotation
Results are presented from an investigation of allegations that inmates of the Oahu Community Correctional Center (Hawaii) were brutalized by corrections officers, with the knowledge and consent of the administrators, during a major shakedown.
Abstract
Background information is provided on the shakedown, which was conducted December 14-18, 1981, to recover firearms, other weapons, drugs, and other prison contraband. The first phase of the two-phase investigation consisted of information-gathering, which included interviewing many inmates and staff. The second phase involved the organization, analysis, and evaluation of data. The circumstances in which a correctional officer has the right to use force are reviewed: (1) self-defense; (2) defending or aiding another officer or inmate; (3) enforcing institutional regulations; and (4) preventing commission of a crime, including escape. There was insufficient evidence that unreasonable force was used against 59 of the 103 inmates; there was sufficient evidence that unreasonable force was used against 44 of the inmates. Of these 44, 18 were treated for injuries such as bruises, contusions, lacerations, and abrasions. The 103 inmates made 121 allegations; there was sufficient evidence that unreasonable force was used in 40 percent of the allegations. Seven appendixes and 12 tables are provided.