NCJ Number
239513
Date Published
2009
Length
67 pages
Annotation
This slide presentation contains information on a common sense approach to providing safety and security in the courthouse.
Abstract
This slide presentation on safety and security in the courthouse has five primary objectives: 1) identify and define what court security is; 2) define the nexus between the role of the Clerk and that of Court Security; 3) identify what influences Clerks can and do have on court security programs; 4) illustrate common court security practices for general application; and 5) illustrate potential solutions for court security issues that impact court clerks. The presentation includes information on who comes to court and why, and the value of a secure work environment. Also included in the presentation is a brief history of court security across the country, as well as in the State of Texas. The presentation includes a description of the court security fund established by the State of Texas which allows courts to collect a security fee. The funds collected from this fee can be used to finance the following: the purchase or repair of X-ray machines and conveying systems; handheld and walkthrough metal detectors; identification cards and systems; electronic locking and surveillance equipment; bailiffs, deputy sheriffs, deputy constables, or contract security personnel; confiscated weapon inventory and tracking systems; locks, chains, alarms, or similar security devices; the purchase or repair of bullet-proof glass; and continuing education on security issues for court personnel and security personnel. The presentation also discusses the four concepts of emergency management that are key to establishing successful court security programs: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.