Procedure: Prisoner Control: Booking (From Crime to Court: Police Officer's Handbook, P 14-17, 1989 Joseph C Coleman)

• NCJ Number: 120937
• Author(s): P Banner
• Editor(s): J C Coleman
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 4 pages
• Corporate Author: South Carolina Educational Television Network; South Carolina Criminal Justice Acad
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Training (Aid/Material)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Booking procedures for prisoners are discussed, with emphasis on transfer of prisoner custody, prisoner physical and mental health assessments, and safety procedures for the booking area.

Abstract

Booking areas are among the most dangerous areas in a police station. During the booking procedure, many prisoners become violent. Therefore, it is critical that no weapons be allowed in the booking area. To provide a secure environment for prisoner booking, some police departments have established sally ports and weapons lockers. The booking procedure and transfer of prisoner custody is detailed, with special emphasis on the need to assess the prisoner's state of mind and provide a good physical health screening. The need to document the booking and screening processes is important, for police departments and police officers are held accountable for what happens to prisoners in their custody.