Who should be notified if you recognize an inmate that is a friend or family member?

Notifying a commanding officer when you recognize an inmate as a friend or family member is crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of the correctional facility. The commanding officer has the authority and responsibility to assess the situation and take appropriate action in line with department policies. This includes ensuring that relationships between staff and inmates do not compromise safety or operations.

By alerting the commanding officer, the matter can be handled confidentially and professionally, maintaining a clear boundary between personal relationships and professional duties. Commanding officers are trained to make informed decisions about any potential implications, such as conflicts of interest, favoritism, or security risks that might arise from the recognition of an inmate by someone in a staff position.

While other individuals like the warden or local police might need to be informed in specific circumstances, the immediate and appropriate response in this situation is through the chain of command, which starts with the commanding officer. This structured approach helps ensure that all actions taken are in compliance with established protocols and safeguard both officer integrity and inmate welfare.