NCJ Number
165211
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 59 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1997) Pages: 28-30,32,33
Date Published
1997
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article draws lessons from past prison riots to assist in preventing and containing such riots.
Abstract
One lesson to be learned from past prison riots is that emergency response teams in institutions are important in containing riots. A prison riot will expand to as many wings of a prison as possible. An emergency response team can take action quickly to prevent expansion. Further, institutions should develop riot plans so staff know what is expected of them. Instruction in this area should be implemented during both initial staff training and refresher programs. Issues emphasized may include the proper use of access keys, locations of entrances, and the use of deterrence equipment. Because drugs can increase the potential for spontaneous violence in prisons, contraband control can help prevent prison riots. Staff can increase cell searches, add metal detectors at checkpoints in an institution, and search vehicles entering institutions to reduce weapons and/or drugs inside. Another important lesson to be learned from past prison riots is the crucial role of security. Both the Attica and Santa Fe prisons had security problems. The Attica riot spread after a defective iron gate was broken. Similarly, the riot in Santa Fe erupted when the glass to the control center was broken and the prison's locking devices were accessed. Officers must be taught to follow security procedures when making rounds. Further, a national study conducted by the South Carolina Department of Corrections in 1973 found that there was a greater chance for a riot in correctional institutions where inmates thought active recreational programs were inadequate. 13 references