NCJ Number
195845
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 29 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2002 Pages: 16-22
Date Published
June 2002
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Sheriffs and county jails are turning to two-way video teleconferencing and monitoring as a way to save taxpayer dollars.
Abstract
Shortages in correctional staffing levels have fueled the use of video conferencing. Video is used for arraignment, visitation, parole hearings, bail hearings, plea motions, and depositions. Video can be used to coordinate remote attorney conferences, remote witnesses, and bail bond reviews. Video cameras are also used for suicide watch and in health care, where costs are out of control. An example of the latter use of video is found in the prisons of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. From one of three studios in the University of Texas Medical Branch Correctional Managed Care offices, doctors use appliances such as electronic stethoscopes and EKG hookups to remotely read patients' electrocardiograms or take readings of their pulmonary functions in real-time. Regarding the prevention of inmate suicides, many jails are using closed-circuit television cameras in cells to provide constant day-and-night surveillance of inmates considered to be at risk for suicide. This article also describes examples of video court arraignments and video visitation. Overall, video technology is being used increasingly by jails to increase the effectiveness of their various functions while reducing costs. Photo illustrations