NCJ Number
130283
Journal
American Jails Volume: 5 Issue: 2 Dated: (May/June 1991) Pages: 69-69,71
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Video imaging systems have automated the procedure of photographing prisoners. These sophisticated and easy to use systems and approaches to integrating them are described and their benefits and costs are identified.
Abstract
In the booking procedure, a standard video camera is used to display the offender's image live on a color monitor. The image is frozen on the screen at the push of a button when the desired position is achieved. The user can store the image on the computer or retake the image. Benefits of using images to positively identify offenders include eliminating the risk of prisoners falsely identifying themselves, allowing an officer to perform searches on the basis of physical characteristics, and reducing false claims on the part of inmates about the value, condition, or brand of their personnel effects. Those police agencies and correctional facilities that use the same imaging software or adhere to accepted law enforcement imaging standards can share and transfer offender images and personal data instantly by linking their systems. A county jail with 400 to 500 beds can implement the imaging system described for a cost of $22,000 and, depending on the number of admissions, can pay for it in savings in film costs alone.