I will be describing the physical, dynamic and procedural security considerations in a
custodial environment. Then I will be outlining the types and methods of searches
conducted by staff in a custodial environment then later describing control measures
in place in a custodial environment. Nextly I will be justifying the use of adjudications
and incentive schemes in relation to addressing offending behaviour and the
maintenance of control. Lastly I will be evaluating the need for security and control in
a custodial environment.
Security considerations in a custodial environment
Physical-
The main purpose of physical security is to create a physical barrier and prevent
free movement and any of the prisoners escaping from the custodial environment.
Another purpose I would like to mention is the the prison has the power to monitor
and detect suspicious behaviour which they may deem suspicious equipment such
as CCTV, alarms and patrols. Another example of physical security is security
checks which are a crucial part of the prison and are usually carried out on a timed
basis so that cells,walls and gates which makes the prison secure 24/7.
In conclusion I and many believe that it is vital that prisoners cannot escape from any
form of custody to carry this through it means making physical security like high
walls, exit points and gates are of high walls are well protected and guarded at all
times. Equally important are the areas inside the boundary walls which also needs to
be well patrolled to keep prisoners in a safe environment and prevent them from
being attacked, bullied and mistreated by prison staff.
Dynamic-
Dynamic security is primary based on gathering intelligence. In my opinion the main
roles of prison staff is to assist in everyday activities and watch where the prisoners
go an example would be to monitor work, education and physical training or the gym.
The other role is to look for anything they deem unusual in the behaviour of the
prisoners and any groups that are forming inside and contraband passed from one
prisoner to the next. Any Family and official visits will also all be monitored and any
suspected activity will be investigated.
This is where a good relationship between prison staff and prisoners is very
important and so is the ability to trust one another which helps prisoners wanting to
report something as they will have the trust and confidence that it will be reviewed
fairly. Another part of the dynamic security process is to listen to prisoners phone
calls and read sent and received mail on a routine basis.
Some prisoners may also get their conversations with any family visitors or solicitors
recorded to gather evidence on any suspects that the prison is tracking.