NCJ Number
154436
Date Published
1994
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This document presents a policy statement of the Federal Bureau of Prisons policy regarding staff use of force and the application of restraints on inmates, along with detailed procedures for implementing the policy.
Abstract
Under the Bureau of Prisons policy, staff members are authorized to use force only as a last alternative after all other reasonable efforts to resolve a situation have failed. When authorized, staff must use only that amount of force necessary to gain control of the inmate; to protect and ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and others; to prevent serious property damage; and to ensure institution security and good order. Staff are also authorized to apply physical restraints necessary to gain control of an inmate who appears to be dangerous. Dangerousness is to be presumed when an inmate assaults another individual, when the inmate destroys government property, when the inmate attempts suicide, when the inmate inflicts injury upon self, or when the inmate becomes violent or displays signs of imminent violence. The rule on the application of restraints does not restrict their use in situations that require precautionary restraints, particularly in the movement or transfer of inmates. Other information provided in this document pertains to the directives affected by this directive, directives referenced, and standards referenced; circumstances under which the directive is applicable; documentation of incidents where force or restraints are used; staffing and equipment; team member responsibilities; precautions; and the use of other techniques. Other topics discussed are restraint equipment, the use-of-force safeguards, medical attention, after-action reviews, and staff training.