NCJ Number
112596
Journal
American Jails Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1987) Pages: 34-36
Date Published
1987
Length
3 pages
Annotation
A maximum security jail using the direct supervision approach was opened in Bucks County (Pa.) in 1985 as part of its effort to improve the quality of corrections and to provide, for the first time, a real management role for correctional officers.
Abstract
The new system contrasts with the traditional survival role for correctional officers in that it makes the individual correctional officer the primary focus of supervision. The correctional officer is personally in charge of a small, manageable housing unit, providing the crucial link in service delivery, inmate supervision, and the transmission of concerns between the inmates and institutional supervisors. After 18 months of operation the program has demonstrated that inmates will respect and respond to directives when they have decent housing and personal and ongoing supervision. Each correctional officer is in charge of 46 inmates and must rely on intellectual rather than physical skills. Backing up the direct supervision model is an inmate classification system. In addition, Bucks County officers maintain health programs, drug and alcohol therapy, a library program, many educational and recreational programs, individual counseling, and other services. The new program has eliminated graffiti, reduced violence among inmates, and improved staff safety. Future needs include more staff training.