NCJ Number
80178
Date Published
1979
Length
37 pages
Annotation
Findings and recommendations are presented from an assessment of the staff needed to assure corrections internal security at the four institutions operated by the Division of Corrections, Multnomah County, Oreg.
Abstract
The assessment is based on an analysis of several factors: size of the inmate population, services to inmates performed by staff, the institution's physical layout, management and program priorities, and judicial decisions bearing upon correctional facility conditions. Data were obtained from personnel records and other relevant documents as well as site visits. The Multnomah County Division of Corrections is responsible for the operation of four institutions -- Rocky Butte Jail, Courthouse Jail, Clare Argow Center, and the Multnomah County Correctional Institution. In addition, there is a transport unit for moving inmates between facilities and a hospital unit. Each institution is unique in size, major objectives, operational procedures, and staffing requirements. Because of these unique qualities, most of the analysis focuses on each facility. Issues affecting the general operation of the Division are considered at the outset, however. Overall, the data show that correctional officers are using sick leave as a means of escaping job stress, an indication of a significant morale problem. Inservice training, systematic review of operating procedures, and a performance review process to reward job achievement are suggested as means for dealing with the problem. The performance of clerical tasks and the use of clerical personnel were found to be inadequate, and inmate program activities and visiting privileges were found to be inferior in the four institutions. Suggestions for improved administrative procedures are offered. A summary of staffing implications of the findings is provided, and 11 footnotes are listed.