Rodgers

FACTS

A. Contraband Surveillance Watch

Contraband surveillance watch is a procedure for monitoring inmates suspected of

hiding drugs or weapons inside their body. The inmate is physically restrained and placed

in an isolated cell under constant, one-on-one observation until they excrete the

contraband (or until 72 hours have elapsed, at which point special approval is needed to

extend the procedure). The physical restraints are designed to prevent the inmate from

accessing and re-ingesting the contraband before staff has a chance to retrieve it. They

2 consist of leg irons and handcuffs that connect to a waistband, and a “hand isolation

device” resembling a mitten that attaches to the handcuffs. The leg irons and handcuffs

are equipped with a double-locking mechanism that keeps the restraint secure and

prevents it from becoming too tight and cutting off the inmate’s circulation when

manipulated.

Each watch is divided into shifts and every shift is supervised by a sergeant. There

is one officer assigned to each inmate under surveillance. Every 15 minutes, the officer

must perform a wellness check of their inmate and record their observations on their

watch form. The…