To identify and evaluate the effects of the inmate management plan, this study examined conditions at the facility for the 12 months prior to the administrative change and 12 months following it. Staff interviews revealed considerable satisfaction with and support for the new administration and its broad-based approach to management. They felt staff morale had improved, tension had decreased, and violence had been reduced as a result of renovation of the physical plant, improved training and emergency planning, greater delegation of responsibility to deputy wardens, segregation of gang leaders and inmate agitators, and enhanced security. Other changes noted as contributing factors included elimination of double celling, implementation of an internal classification system, racial balancing of inmate housing, enhanced inmate services and programs, and a swift and judicious disciplinary system. While generally agreeing with staff, inmates were slightly less positive with regard to safety, administration, and causes of violence. Agency records indicated reductions in property damage (31 percent), inmate grievances (16 percent), staff grievances (62 percent), and staff turnover (46 percent).
Management of Inmate Violence: A Case Study Summary
NCJ Number
108875
Date Published
1987
Length
7 pages
Annotation
In 1984, following a mass inmate disturbance at the maximum-security Arizona State Prison Complex in Florence, a complete change in administration took place and a comprehensive plan to control inmate violence was instituted.
Abstract
Date Published: January 1, 1987