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Special Focus On: Guidelines for the Use of CCTV in Detention Settings

NCJ Number
127858
Journal
Detention Reporter Dated: (November 1985) Pages: 3-14
Author(s)
Anonymous
Date Published
1985
Length
12 pages
Annotation
A 1973 study concluded that the use of closed circuit television (CCTV) in detention settings was not appropriate in 55 of 69 potential situations. A more recent study suggested that CCTV did not appreciably decrease problems with escapes, assaults, property damage, contraband, fires or suicides.
Abstract
It has also been suggested, though, that an apparent increase in problems may only indicate that more of them are being detected. Detention managers have few clear directives for the appropriate use of CCTV. Court cases have concluded that CCTV by itself is an inadequate means of supervising prisoners. Managers are left with greater potential liability for events which occur in spite of CCTV and prisoner allegations that CCTV violates their rights. One jail inspector noted that in one instance, staff did not view their monitors frequently and had a false sense of security after the CCTV equipment was installed, and that he had not yet been to a facility where all the CCTV equipment was operating well. It is suggested that clear objectives be defined, in writing, for the use of CCTV. CCTV should not replace staff efforts, personal observation of prisoners, direct contact between staff and prisoners or audio communication and coverage. Prisoner privacy should not be violated, the placement of the cameras should be considered carefully, and their capabilities understood.

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