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New Generation Jails

NCJ Number
103205
Author(s)
W R Nelson; M O'Toole; B Krauth; C G Whitemore
Date Published
1983
Length
45 pages
Annotation
This paper compares the podular/direct supervision concept of jail design and management to the concepts of linear/intermittent surveillance and podular/remote surveillance, presents the principles of the podular/direct supervision concept, discusses its growing acceptance by corrections officials, and draws implications for correctional planning.
Abstract
Traditional jails with linear/intermittent surveillance generally are rectangular, with corridors leading to either single or multiple occupancy cells at right angles to the corridor. The architectural design necessarily permits only intermittent staff surveillance and supervision of inmates. A more recent jail design involves podular/remote surveillance. In typical units, single occupancy cells are clustered around a common area and a secure control booth from which an officer observes inmate activity. The officer has no direct contact with the inmates. The security officer calls for other jail personnel to handle inmate misconduct. The podular/direct model has a building design similar to the podular/remote model, but the security officer directly supervises and interacts with the inmates to exert leadership that prevents inmate misbehavior. Principles of this 'new generation' jail are effective control and supervision, competent staff, staff and inmate safety, manageable and cost-effective operations, effective communication, classification and orientation, and just and fair treatment of inmates. Appended design sketches, a list of 'new generation' jail locations, and tabular data on the comparative safety of the three models.