In response to a spate of inmate violence within its high custody units, the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry (ADCRR) is implementing new safety and security measures. The ADCRR has instituted lockdown procedures in these units, which house about 5,000 inmates, to effectively decrease violent episodes. According to a statement from the ADCRR, while some out-of-cell activities have been curtailed, inmates continue to have access to daily necessities such as phone calls, showers, and health services.
The ADCRR roll-out includes the use of Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs) starting today in close-custody units. Officials anticipate the deployment of these cameras will help in maintaining order and improving the safety for both staff and inmates. Training for the use of BWCs has started at the ASPC-Rynning Unit with plans to expand to other high-custody units, aiming to have over 1,000 BWCs in operation by July. The increase of high-risk assignment pay, starting May 10, is another tactic, now offering $2.00 an hour instead of $0.95, recognizing officers' critical roles in these intense environments. "Violence in our prison complexes is unacceptable and will not be tolerated," remarked ADCRR Director Ryan Thornell, as reported by the ADCRR website.
Not all units are affected by the lockdown, as three notable exceptions include the ASPC-Tucson, Rincon Unit; ASPC-Lewis, Eagle Point Unit; and ASPC-Perryville, Lumley Unit due to unique operations and inmate programs there. ADCRR's thrust to promote safety comes after a recent surge in violence within its facilities, prompting a swift administrative reaction.
"The Department is responding to the recent uptick of violent incidents with strong and immediate actions to hold inmates accountable, prevent future violent incidents, and keep everyone at our complexes safe from harm," said Director Thornell, as per the ADCRR website. The ADCRR believes these new strategies will deter inmate misconduct, helping to ensure the safety and well-being of both staff and inmates.
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