NCJ Number
85235
Journal
Corrections Magazine Volume: 8 Issue: 5 Dated: (October 1982) Pages: 20-24,26-27,43-45
Date Published
1982
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Inmate grievance resolution systems exist in all 50 States, but they vary in their specific procedures for dealing with inmate problems.
Abstract
The California Youth Authority (CYA) set up an early model grievance system in the 1970's. While corrections professionals have accepted the concept of inmate grievance procedures, they have not embraced two cardinal principles held by corrections reformers: inmate participation and outside review. About 30 of the States have a system in which each prison has a grievance officer who investigates inmate complaints and makes a recommendation to the warden. The warden informs the inmate of the decision, which can be appealed to the director of corrections or someone designated to handle complaints. There is no hearing, no presentation of a 'case,' and no outside review. Some 60 prison systems and jails employ ombudsmen to investigate inmate complaints. Resistance to inmate participation in the grievance procedures remains strong, partly due to lack of money and the belief that giving inmates an active role in resolving grievances is pure folly. Arguments in favor of inmate grievance procedures focus on promoting justice inside prison, maintaining order, and avoiding inmate violence. The systems adopted by Arkansas, New York, California, and Florida are described. Photographs are included.