NCJ Number
210667
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 67 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2005 Pages: 66-68
Date Published
July 2005
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article discusses issues related to the utilization of surveillance equipment or technology to effectively investigate and prosecute inmates, staff, and others engaging in criminal activity within prisons and jails.
Abstract
Within correctional settings, correctional administrators are often faced with a variety of challenges dealing with criminal conduct involving not only inmates but occasionally staff. Investigators investigating criminal activity within prisons and jails are faced with many challenges, such as the mass of concrete, steel, and wire, noise from the heat system, air conditioning systems within the facilities, and inmates and staff, that may intentionally or inadvertently thwart the investigator’s abilities to perform their duties. There is a need for effective investigation and prosecution of inmates, staff, and citizens who choose to engage in criminal activity or enterprise within jails and prisons. This article discusses the proper deployment of modern surveillance equipment, as well as an investigative team, providing the department with the means to more effectively prevent criminal activity and gather evidence. Selecting the right surveillance system by working through the procurement process is discussed offering the ability to garner sufficient information to select a qualified vendor. The ultimate goal is the preservation of departmental integrity through inmate accountability and staff professional standards. State of the art technology will enhance the ability of good investigators to do their jobs.