NCJ Number
166165
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 21 Issue: 3 Dated: (March 1996) Pages: 8-10
Editor(s)
G Wees
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Based upon an examination of the handling of eight prison riots throughout the Nation, this article discusses who should take command during a prison riot and the development of a plan for a riot response.
Abstract
The level of command during a prison riot depends on several factors: knowledge of the facility; effects on the chain of command; breadth of experience, responsibility, and communication; links between responsibility and authority; and the administrative framework. Some of these factors favor assigning command to the warden, but others indicate the central office administrator or the commissioner may be more appropriate in certain situations. Each situation must be weighed individually. Whoever is selected for command, the commander must have the authority to deploy the forces at hand, monitor their actions in the field continuously, deliver orders promptly and effectively, coordinate operations with other State and Federal agencies, and obtain information on what inmates are doing and what they intend to do. Regarding a riot plan, it should be a comprehensive guide that describes the responsibilities to be fulfilled, resources to be used, and the contribution of each individual or group involved. It should embody the agency's principles and strategies for resolution. A critical element of emergency planning is a use-of-force policy. In the event that the assistance of other agencies is required, the riot plan should include contact names and telephone numbers and an outline of existing agreements between agencies. Riot preparation should include training that involves both classroom instruction and field practice. Training may include unannounced onsite riot scenarios. If a riot plan calls for the assistance of State police or other agencies, joint training should be conducted with those agencies.