NCJ Number
108258
Date Published
1987
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This paper considers the appropriateness of new generation prison design for maximum-security accommodations in England and Wales and it simplications for the building program and prison overcrowding.
Abstract
The new generation concept depends upon a combination of nontraditional inmate management and supervision styles with a physical structure to accommodate the new styles. The design involves the use of multidisciplinary unit management teams responsible for groups of 50 to 100 inmates in discrete living units. Structure and technology are employed indirectly in the design of the units and throughout the institution as a whole to facilitate supervision in a wholesome, pleasant environment that commands respect. The Minnesota Correctional Facility merges podular/direct supervision with podular/remote surveillance. Complexes at the facility offer sex offender and drug dependency programs, industrial work, and segregation, services, education, and mental health units. Units are staffed by correctional officers who emphasize a proactive approach to supervision that shows due regard for the humanity and dignity of inmates. The success of the new generation prison model depends upon a combination of good design, competent and professional staffing, and fair and effective operational policies. It is suggested that the inclusion of one or two new generation prisons in the building program of the United Kingdom would be an appropriate way of dealing with security and control problems, could reduce the level of high security provision in the system, and could contribute to the solution of the overcrowding problem. A comment on new generation prisons is appended. 1 note, 7 tables, and 24 references.