GILMER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE - Inmate Handbook

leftMargin=0 topMargin=0 MARGINHEIGHT="0" MARGINWIDTH="0"> VI. INMATE PROGRAMS

RECREATION/EXERCISE

EACH INMATE INCARCERATED FOR AT LEAST 72 HOURS WILL BE ENTITLED TO THREE (3) HOURS OF EXERCISE OUTSIDE THE HOUSING AREA OR OUTDOOR EACH WEEK (STAFFING AND WEATHER PERMITTING.) DURING RECREATION, NO INMATE WILL BE LEFT IN A CELL, FOR ANY REASON. IF YOU CANNOT PARTICIPATE IN OUTDOOR RECREATION, YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE HOLDING CELL FOR THE TIME PERIOD YOUR CELL IS OUTDOORS.

INDOOR RECREATION AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES WILL CONSIST OF ENTERTAINMENT (TELEVISION).

CONFLICTS THAT MAY ARISE BETWEEN SCHEDULED RECREATION OR EXERCISE PERIODS AND UNSCHEDULED PROGRAMS OR SERVICES MAY REQUIRE A FORFEITURE OF SOME OR ALL SERVICES OR PROGRAMS WITHOUT REDEMPTION.

INMATES WILL CONDUCT THEMSELVES IN AN ORDERLY MANNER, DEMONSTRATE SELF-CONTROL, AND COMPLY WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS AND ORDERS OF STAFF MEMBERS DURING ACTIVITIES. INMATES CREATING A DISTURBANCE OR HINDERING STAFF MEMBERS FROM RESOLVING DISTURBANCES WILL BE SUBJECTED TO DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS.

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

RELIGIOUS SERVICES WILL BE HELD ON SPECIFIED DAYS AND TIMES DURING THE WEEK. YOU MUST BE FULLY CLOTHED DURING SERVICE, AND YOU WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO LEAVE THE SERVICE EARLY.

INMATES ARE EXPECTED TO RECOGNIZE AND RESPECT THE RELIGIOUS PREFERENCE OF OTHERS.

REQUESTS FOR CONFERENCE WITH MINISTERS FOR PASTORING, COUNSELING, CONFESSIONAL, OR OBSERVANCE OF RELIGIOUS RIGHTS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING. THE DETENTION CAPTAIN WILL APPROVE AND SCHEDULE CONFERENCES UPON DETERMINATION OF A BONA FIDE BELIEF AND PRACTICE.

LEGAL RESOURCES

INMATES SHOULD DIRECT INQUIRIES AND REQUESTS OF A LEGAL NATURE TO THEIR LEGAL COUNSEL (ATTORNEY). WHERE THE INMATE IS INDIGENT, WITHOUT COUNSEL, OR INTENT UPON REPRESENTING HIMSELF, REQUEST FOR SPECIFIC LEGAL RESOURCES WILL BE COORDINATED BY FACILITY STAFF. HOWEVER, STAFF MEMBERS ARE NOT OBLIGATED TO CONDUCT LEGAL RESEARCH.

YOU ARE PERMITTED VISITS FROM YOUR ATTORNEY(S) AT ANY TIME, DAY OR NIGHT. THESE VISITS WILL NOT BE COUNTED AGAINST YOUR WEEKLY VISIT BY YOUR FAMILY OR FRIENDS.

DUE TO PRIVACY RESTRICTIONS REGARDING ANY OUTSTANDING CHARGES AGAINST YOU, OFFICERS WILL NOT MAKE COPIES OF ANY LEGAL DOCUMENTS.

NO CORRESPONDENCE OF ANY TYPE (ATTORNEY/CLIENT OR OTHER) WILL BE COPIED FOR ANY REASON WHATSOEVER.

HABEAS CORPUS

PURSUANT TO GEORGIA LAW(42-12-7.1) WHEN AN INMATE FILES FOR A WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS, THE CLERK OF COURT IS TO FORWARD THE INFORMATION TO THE DETEANTION CAPTAIN, WHO IS TO PAY THE COST OF THE ACTION OUT OF THE INMATES COMMISSARY ACCOUNT.

IF THE INMATE IS INDIGENT AT THE TIME OF THE WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS, DETENTION CAPTAIN IS TO PLACE A FREEZE ON THE INMATES ACCOUNT. FROM THAT POINT FORWARD, ANY MONIES DEPOSITED INTO THE INMATES (COMMISSARY) ACCOUNT ARE TO BE FORWARDED TO THE CLERK UNTIL ALL COURT COSTS AND FEES ARE SATISFIED.

ACCESS TO LAW LIBRARY

ACCESS TO THE LAW LIBRARY WILL BE ALLOWED ONLY PURSUANT TO AN ORDER FROM STATE OR SUPERIOR COURT. IF GRANTED, TIME WILL BE ALLOCATED AT 1 HOUR PER WEEK, AS OFFICER AVAILABILITY AND WORKLOAD PERMIT. ABSOLUTELY NO ASSISTANCE WITH RESEARCH, COPYING, ETC., WILL BE RENDERED BY EMPLOYEES OF GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER/SHERIFF’S OFFICE.

READING MATERIALS

1) INMATES MAY REQUEST AND RECEIVE THREE (3) SUBSCRIPTION PUBLICATIONS (BOOK, SOFT BOUND) AT THEIR OWN EXPENSE. ALL PUBLICATIONS WILL BE SUBJECT TO INSPECTION UPON RECEIPT.THESE CAN BE SENT DIRECTLY FROM THE PUBLISHER OR SENT DIRECTLY FROM THE RETAILER (I.E. WAL MART, BOOK STORE, ETC.).

2) THE DETENTION STAFF WILL EXAMINE ALL PACKAGES AND MAY REJECT ANY BOOK OR PUBLICATION DETERMINED TO BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE SECURITY AND ORDER OF THE FACILITY OR INMATE DISCIPLINE. WHEN REJECTED, THE DETENTION STAFF WILL NOTIFY THE REQUESTING INMATE OF THE DECISION, CITING SPECIFIC REASONS AND REFERENCE TO THOSE PORTIONS CONSIDERED OBJECTIONABLE.

INMATES WILL BE ALLOWED TO PURCHASE BEVERAGES, SNACKS, PERSONAL HYGIENE, AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES FROM THE COMMISSARY. ONLY DISPOSABLE CONTAINERS AND ITEMS CONTAINED IN DISPOSABLE WRAPPING WILL BE PERMITTED WITHIN THE HOUSING AREA. WASTE AND TRASH MUST BE DISCARDED IN APPROPRIATE CONTAINERS. COMMISSARY ORDERS ARE NOT RETURNABLE, IF IT IS OUR MISTAKE THE ITEM WILL BE EXCHANGED, OR MONIES RETURNED, BUT IF IT IS YOUR MISTAKE YOU MAY KEEP THE ITEM OR IT WILL BE PLACED IN YOUR PERSONAL PROPERTY.

COMMISSARY ITEMS MUST BE PICKED UP WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAY OF RELEASE AND ALL FUNDS IN THE INMATE ACCOUNT WILL BE MAILED TO YOU. OTHER PERSONAL PROPERTY MUST BE RETREIVED WITHIN 7 DAYS OF RELEASE OR ITEMS BECOME PROPERTY OF GILMER COUNTY.

COMMISSARY IS ORDERED ON TUESDAY AND DISTRIBUTED ON THURSDAYS.

VII. DISCIPLINE AND GRIEVANCE

GENERAL RULES OF CONDUCT

WHILE CONFINED YOU HAVE CERTAIN RESPONSIBILITIES TO YOURSELF, FELLOW INMATES AND STAFF MEMBERS. YOU ARE EXPECTED TO MAINTAIN YOUR HOUSING AREA IN A NEAT, CLEAN AND ORDERLY MANNER AND RETAIN IN YOUR POSSESSION ONLY AUTHORIZED ARTICLES NECESSARY FOR PERSONAL HYGIENE OR RECREATIONAL AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES. DO NOT ALLOW YOUR PERSONAL AREA TO BECOME CLUTTERED OR CONSTITUTE A HEALTH OR SAFETY HAZARD.

YOU ARE EXPECTED TO MAINTAIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERSONAL APPEARANCE, AND PRACTICE PERSONAL HYGIENE HABITS. YOU SHOULD KEEP YOUR BODY CLEAN AND FREE OF ODORS AND SHOWER AT LEAST TWICE (2) PER WEEK. YOU SHOULD KEEP YOUR CLOTHING AND ISSUED LINENS CLEAN AND HAVE THEM LAUNDERED EACH WEEK AS SCHEDULED.

YOU ARE EXPECTED TO REMAIN WITHIN YOUR ASSIGNED HOUSING OR DAYROOM AREA UNLESS ACCOMPANIED TO AN ACTIVITY, SERVICE, OR PROGRAM BY A STAFF MEMBER.

YOU ARE EXPECTED TO UNDERSTAND AND COMPLY WITH THE FACILITY RULES.

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

SO THAT INMATES MAY LIVE IN A SAFE AND ORDERLY ENVIRONMENT, IT IS NECESSARY FOR THE GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER AUTHORITIES TO IMPOSE DISCIPLINE ON THOSE INMATES WHOSE BEHAVIOR IS NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE DETENTION CENTER RULES AND STANDARDS OF CONDUCT.

RULES OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION

ONLY DETENTION CENTER STAFF MAY TAKE DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

STAFF SHALL TAKE DISCIPLINARY ACTION AT SUCH TIMES TO THE DEGREE NECESSARY TO REGULATE AN INMATES BEHAVIOR, IN ORDER TO PROMOTE A SAFE AND ORDERLY ENVIRONMENT.

STAFF SHALL CONTROL INMATE BEHAVIOR IN A COMPLETELY IMPARTIAL AND CONSISTENT MANNER.

IF IT APPEARS, AT ANY STAGE OF THE DISCIPLINARY PROCESS, THAT AN INMATE IS MENTALLY ILL, STAFF SHALL REFER THE INMATE TO A MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL FOR DETERMINATION OF WHETHER THE INMATE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR HIS CONDUCT.

ACCURATE, DETAILED REPORTS OF ANY DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS WILL BE PLACED IN YOUR PERSONAL FILE, AND FORWARDED TO THE WATCH COMMANDER AND DETENTION CAPTAIN FOR REVIEW.

DISCIPLINARY PLAN AND PROCEDURES

VIOLATIONS OF FACILITY RULES AND/OR STATUTORY LAW MAY BE REPORTED TO ANY STAFF MEMBER. STAFF MEMBERS OBSERVING VIOLATIONS, OR MAKING INQUIRY OF SUSPECTED VIOLATIONS, WILL INITIATE APPROPRIATE ACTION AND DOCUMENTATION.

DISCIPLINARY REPORTS WILL BE DONE BY EACH INDIVIDUAL OFFICER INVOLVED, INCLUDING A DESCRIPTION OF THE VIOLATION, STAFF MEMBERS’ COMMENTS, AND SUGGESTED DISCIPLINARY PENALTIES. DISCIPLINARY REPORTS WILL BE FORWARDED AND REVIEWED BY THE WATCH COMMANDER AND DETENTION CAPTAIN.

AS AN INMATE YOU ARE SUBJECT TO LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE STATE OF GEORGIA AND RULES OF INMATE CONDUCT FOR THE GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER. INFRACTIONS OF THESE RULES AND VIOLATIONS OF LAW WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS AND CRIMINAL PROSECUTION.

INFRACTIONS AND VIOLATIONS WILL BE CLASSIFIED AS MINOR, MAJOR, AND SERIOUS ACCORDING TO THE FOLLOWING:

1) MINOR - ACTS WHICH DO NOT CONSTITUTE A PRESENT AND IMMEDIATE THREAT TO THE SECURITY OF THE FACILITY, INMATES, VISITORS, OR STAFF MEMBERS. THESE VIOLATIONS SHALL INCLUDE BUT NOT TO BE LIMITED TO:

A) FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE LAWFUL ORDERS OF STAFF MEMBERS,
B) FAILURE TO MAINTAIN A NEAT, ORDERLY, AND SANITARY HOUSING AREA,
C) FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ACCEPTABLE PERSONAL HYGIENE AND APPEARANCE,
D) PROVIDING FALSE INFORMATION TO STAFF MEMBERS,
E) USING PROFANE, DEROGATORY,OR ABUSIVE WORDS, REMARKS, OR GESTURES TOWARDS FELLOW INMATES, VISITORS, OR STAFF MEMBERS,
F) TEASING, TAUNTING, OR VERBALLY ABUSING FELLOW INMATES, VISITORS, OR STAFF MEMBERS,
G) POSSESSION OF UNAUTHORIZED OR EXCESSIVE ITEMS,
H) MISUSE OF AUTHORIZED ITEMS,
I) DISORDERLY CONDUCT,
J) BARTERING THE UNAUTHORIZED EXCHANGE OR SALE OF ANY GOODS OR SERVICES,
K) GAMBLING,
L) UNAUTHORIZED VERBAL COMMUNICATION/MATERIAL EXCHANGE BETWEEN CELLBLOCKS.
M) USING THE INTERCOM LOCATED IN THE DORMS FOR REASONS OTHER THAN EMERGENCIES.
N) SMOKING
O) POSSESSION OF TATTOOING PARAPHERNALIA OR TATTOOING.
P) INDECENT EXPOSURE
Q) ENGAGING IN SEXUAL ACTS OR MAKING SEXUAL PROPOSALS TO OTHERS.
R) UNNECESSARY NOISE SUCH AS ARGUING, SHOUTING, WHISTLING, RATTLING OR POUNDING ON DOORS OR WINDOWS,
S) COMPLETE UNIFORM WILL BE WORN AT ALL TIMES WHILE OUTSIDE OF THE CELL. THIS INCLUDES TO AND FROM THE SHOWER.ANY ALTERED WAY OF WEARING THE UNIFORM OTHER THAN ITS CORRECT WAY IS PROHIBITED.

2) MAJOR ACTS WHICH MAY CONSTITUTE A PRESENT AND IMMEDIATE THREAT TO THE SECURITY OF THE FACILITY, INMATES, VISITORS, OR STAFF MEMBERS, OR WHERE A DETERMINATION IS MADE THAT THE REMEDY FOR A MINOR VIOLATION SERVES AS NO DETERRENT EFFECT. THESE VIOLATIONS SHALL INCLUDE BUT NOT TO BE LIMITED TO:

A) REPEATED MINOR VIOLATIONS,
B) DISOBEYING A LAWFUL ORDER OF A STAFF MEMBER,
C) PROVIDING FALSE INFORMATION FOR OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS OR FORMS,
D) ATTEMPTED ASSAULT (PHYSICAL OR SEXUAL),
E) FIGHTING,
F) UNAUTHORIZED ABSENCE FROM AN ASSIGNED AREA,
G) PRESENCE IN AN UNAUTHORIZED AREA,
H) DAMAGE TO FACILITY PROPERTY (LESS THAN $50.00),
I) ATTEMPTING TO CONTROL THE BEHAVIOR OF OTHER INMATES THROUGH INTIMIDATION OR COERCION,
J) MISUSE OR ABUSE OF FACILITY SERVICES (TELEPHONE, MAIL, VISITATION, OR COMMISSARY),
K) MISUSE OR ABUSE OF FACILITY PROGRAMS (FOOD SERVICES, MEDICAL COMPLAINTS, RECREATION, EXERCISE, LEGAL RESOURCES, OR RELIGIOUS SERVICES),
L) INTERFERENCE OR DISRUPTION OF ANY FACILITY PROGRAM, SERVICE, OR ACTIVITY,
M) MISUSE OR ABUSE OF AUTHORIZED MEDICATIONS,
N) TAMPERING WITH ANY LOCK, LOCKING DEVICE, ELECTRONIC MONITORING DEVICE,OR SECURITY EQUIPMENT AND HARDWARE,
O) MISUSE OR ABUSE OF ISSUED OR APPROVED MATERIALS WHICH HINDERS, INHIBITS, OR INTERFERES WITH SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND HARDWARE,
P) WEARING A MASK OR DISGUISE,
Q) POSSESSION OF ANY HUMAN REPLICAS,
R) POSSESSION OF ANY FACILITY OR DEPARTMENTAL PROPERTY,
S) PLACEMENT OF FOREIGN OR EXCESS MATERIALS INTO TOILETS, SINKS OR SHOWERS,
T) LYING TO AN OFFICER,
U) DISRUPTING ANY FACILITY ACTIVITY OR PROGRAM,
V) WRITING ON WALLS, UNIFORMS, OR FURNITURE,
W) POSSESSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE LIST OF PERMITTED ITEMS OR AUTHORIZED BY FACILITY STAFF.

3) SERIOUS ACTS WHICH CONSTITUTE A PRESENT OR IMMEDIATE THREAT TO THE SECURITY OF THE FACILITY, INMATES, VISITORS, OR STAFF MEMBERS; OR CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF STATUTORY LAW; OR WHERE A DETERMINATION IS MADE THAT THE REMEDY FOR A MAJOR VIOLATION SERVES AS NO DETERRENT EFFECT. THESE VIOLATIONS SHALL INCLUDE BUT NOT TO BE LIMITED TO:

A) REPEATED MAJOR VIOLATIONS,
B) CAUSING THE BODILY INJURY OR DEATH OF ANY PERSON,
C) ASSAULT ON A STAFF MEMBER OR FELLOW INMATE,
D) ESCAPE, ATTEMPTED ESCAPE, OR CONSPIRING TO AID THE ESCAPE OF FELLOW INMATE(S),
E) ARSON,
F) THEFT,
G) BRIBERY,
H) EXTORTION OR BLACKMAIL,
I) SEXUAL COERCION OR ASSAULT,
J) POSSESSION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR UNAUTHORIZED DRUGS, INCLUDING TABACCO,
K POSSESSION OF ANY OBJECT, CHEMICAL AGENT, OR SUBSTANCE MODIFIED OR ALTERED TO BE USED AS A DANGEROUS WEAPON,
L) MALICIOUS DESTRUCTION, ALTERATION OR DAMAGE OF FACILITY PROPERTY (OVER $50.00),
M) CREATING, ENCOURAGING, OR ENCITING ANY DISTURBANCE OR RIOT,
N) HOLDING, RESTRAINING, OR IN ANY WAY CONFINING ANY PERSON AGAINST HIS WILL (HOSTAGE),
O) INTERFERING WITH, OBSTRUCTING, HINDERING, OR PREVENTING ANY FACILITY ACTIVITY OR ANY STAFF MEMBER FROM THE PERFORMANCE OF ASSIGNED DUTIES, ORDERS, OR INSTRUCTIONS.

TRYING TO COMMIT OR AIDING ANOTHER PERSON TO COMMIT ANY OFFENSE LISTED ABOVE (MINOR, MAJOR, AND SERIOUS) SHALL BE HELD THE SAME AS COMMITTING THE OFFENSE ITSELF.

MINOR INFRACTIONS

MINOR ACTS OF NON-CONFORMANCE OR MINOR VIOLATIONS MAY BE DISPOSED OF INFORMALLY BY THE STAFF MEMBER AS A VERBAL WARNING OR WRITTEN REPRIMAND, AND BOTH OCCURRENCES DOCUMENTED.

WHERE THE LOSS OR LIMITATION OF PRIVILEGES IS RECOMMENDED, A MINOR DISCIPLINARY REPORT MUST BE FILED.

MAJOR OR SERIOUS INFRACTIONS

MAJOR OR SERIOUS VIOLATIONS MUST BE DOCUMENTED ON A RULE VIOLATION REPORT, AND UPON AN INMATE’S REQUEST, REQUIRES A DISCIPLINARY HEARING.THE DISCIPLINED INMATE WILL SIGN THE REPORT AND WAIVER AS ACKNOWLEDGMENT. IF THE INMATE REFUSES TO SIGN THEN IT WILL BE TAKEN AS IT IS REQUESTED TO GO TO THE HEARING OFFICER, AND ALL REPORTS WILL BE FORWARDED TO THE LIEUTENANT.

WHERE A REPORT AND WAIVER ARE FORWARDED, THE SHIFT SERGEANT WILL DETERMINE THE PUNISHMENT (OR APPROVE THE ADMINISTERED SANCTION) AND NOTIFY THE INMATE.

WHERE A REPORT AND INMATE WAIVER ARE FORWARDED, THE SHIFT SERGEANT WILL FORWARD TO THE LIEUTENANT, WHO IN TURN WILL SUBMIT THE CASE TO THE DISCIPLINARY BOARD FOR REVIEW AND INITIATE AN APPROPRIATE INVESTIGATION.

ALL DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS WILL CONFORM TO ALL DUE PROCESS GUARANTEES.

MINOR INFRACTIONS INMATES CHARGED WITH MINOR INFRACTIONS OF THE RULES OF CONDUCT AND VIOLATIONS WILL BE SUBJECT TO INFORMAL ADJUSTMENTS AND MAY APPEAR BEFORE THE DISCIPLINARY BOARD.

MAJOR/SERIOUS INFRACTIONS INMATES CHARGED WITH MAJOR/SERIOUS INFRACTIONS OF THE RULES OF CONDUCT AND VIOLATIONS MAY REQUEST TO APPEAR BEFORE THE DISCIPLINARY BOARD AND ARE SUBJECT TO PROSECUTION THROUGH THE APPROPRIATE COURT.

DISCIPLINARY BOARD

THE DISCIPLINARY BOARD SHALL CONSIST OF THE WATCH COMMANDER. ANY MEMBER OF THE BOARD OBSERVING OR INITIATING THE CHARGES AGAINST AN INMATE MUST BE EXCUSED FROM THE HEARING OF THAT CASE AND A SUBSTITUTE APPOINTED BY THE DETENTION CAPTAIN. THE DISCIPLINARY BOARD SHALL HAVE BOTH INVESTIGATIVE AND PUNITIVE POWERS REGARDING INFRACTIONS OF THE FACILITY RULES.

ANY APPEAL WILL BE MADE TO THE JAIL ADMINISTRATOR.

WHEN AN INCIDENT OCCURS THAT MAY REQUIRE DISCIPLINARY MEASURES, ADMINISTERED PUNISHMENTS MAY CONSIST OF THE FOLLOWING: MINOR INFRACTIONS
VERBAL WARNING (DOCUMENTED),
WRITTEN REPRIMAND, AND
LOSS OR LIMITATION OF PRIVILEGES, NOT TO EXCEED THREE (3) DAYS.<

MAJOR INFRACTIONS
LOSS OR LIMITATIONS OF PRIVILEGES * NOT TO EXCEED FIFTEEN (15) DAYS,

PLACEMENT IN DISCIPLINARY ISOLATION FOR A PERIOD NOT TO EXCEED FIFTEEN (15) DAYS.

* PRIVILEGES THAT MAY BE DENIED INCLUDE: ENTERTAINMENT AND LEISURE,
· RECREATION,
· VISITATION,
· NON-ESSENTIAL DIETARY ITEMS (COMMISSARY, DESSERTS, SNACKS), AND
· TELEPHONE COMMUNICATIONS

SERIOUS INFRACTIONS

LOSS OF PRIVILEGES NOT TO EXCEED THIRTY (30) DAYS
PLACEMENT IN DISCIPLINARY ISOLATION FOR A PERIOD OF THIRTY (30) DAYS.

NOTICE TO ALL INMATES

IF YOU ARE FOUND GUILTY OF INJURY TO ANOTHER INMATE OR OFFICER DURING ANY ALTERCATION, ARE INVOLVED IN A RIOT OR OTHER UNLAWFUL DISTURBANCE, OR ARE FOUND GUILTY OF WILLFUL DAMAGE TO COUNTY PROPERTY WHILE YOU ARE INCARCERATED, REASONABLE MONIES WILL BE DEDUCTED FROM YOUR COMMISSARY ACCOUNT TO HELP DEFRAY THE COST OF THESE ACTIONS TO TAXPAYERS. THIS IS DONE PURSUANT TO GEORGIA CODE 42-4-71. THESE PUNISHMENTS CAN NOT EXCEED A TOTAL OF SIXTY (60) DAYS FOR ONE RULE VIOLATION FORM.

WARNING TO STATE INMATES

INMATES SENTENCED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS WHO VIOLATE THESE RULES WILL BE WRITTEN UP ON DISCIPLINARY REPORTS. ALL REPORTS WILL BE INVESTIGATED AND FORWARDED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS. STATE INMATE DISCIPLINARY WRITE-UPS WILL BE FORWARDED WITH THE INMATE TO THE STATE SYSTEM.

ADMINISTRATIVE SEGREGATION AND DISCIPLINARY ISOLATION

ADMINISTRATIVE SEGREGATION

INMATES REQUIRING INCREASED SUPERVISION DUE TO HEALTH, SAFETY OR SECURITY CONCERNS MAY BE PLACED IN ADMININSTRATIVE SEGREGATION. IMMEDIATE REMOVAL WILL OCCUR WHEN THE PRESENCE OF THAT INMATE AMONG THE GENERAL POPULATION IS SO DISRUPTIVE THAT IT THREATENS THE SECURITY AND ORDER OF THE FACILITY AND INMATE DISCIPLINE.

DISCIPLINARY ISOLATION

PLACEMENT OF ANY INMATE IN DISCIPLINARY ISOLATION SHOULD BE BASED ON INFRACTIONS OF FACILITY RULES AND IMPOSED ONLY AFTER ACCESS TO A DISCIPLINARY HEARING HAS OCCURRED.

THE CONDITIONS OF CONFINEMENT FOR BOTH SEGREGATION AND ISOLATION SHALL INCLUDE THE SAME APPROXIMATE LEVEL OF ESSENTIAL SERVICES FOR SPACE, SANITATION, HYGIENE, HEALTH, MEDICAL CARE, AND DIET. AN INMATE MAY NOT BE DEPRIVED OF CLOTHING OR BEDDING EXCEPT WHERE THREATENED MISUSE OR CONTINUED ABUSE OF THESE ITEMS HAS BEEN DOCUMENTED.

NY INMATE SHALL BE ENTITLED TO COMMUNICATE LEGITIMATE COMPLAINTS. GRIEVANCES WILL BE IN WRITING AND PLACED IN GRIEVANCE BOX (CONFIDENTIAL) AND ADDRESSED TO THE LIEUTENANT. GRIEVANCES MAY NOT BE GIVEN TO STAFF MEMBERS (THEY WILL BE CONSIDERED INVALID). ALL GRIEVANCES MUST FULLY DESCRIBE THE FACTUAL BASIS AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE ALLEGED INCIDENT OF SITUATION AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE ALLEGED INCIDENT OR SITUATION AND INCLUDE A SPECIFIC COMPLAINT.

ANY INMATE WHO FILES A GRIEVANCE WHICH PROVES TO BE FALSE OR A LIE SHALL BE SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

THE INMATE MUST SIGN GRIEVANCES, OR THEY WILL BE CONSIDERED INVALID.

DECISIONS MADE BY A WATCH COMMANDER MAY, IF YOU FEEL IT IS NECESSARY, BE APPEALED TO THE DETENTION CAPTAIN.

ANY GRIEVANCE (OR APPEAL OF DECISIONS REGARDING SUCH) WHICH IS DIRECTED TO THE SHERIFF, WILL BE FILED AND FORWARDED TO HIS OFFICE THROUGH THE DETENTION CAPTAIN, AND UP THROUGH HIS/HER CHAIN OF COMMAND. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS PROCEDURE MAY INVALIDATE ANY GRIEVANCE, APPEAL, OR LEGAL RECOURSE YOU MIGHT OTHERWISE FEEL YOU MAY BE ENTITLED.

ANY INMATE IN THIS FACILITY MAY FILE A GRIEVANCE EXCEPT FOR THOSE MATTERS THAT INVOLVE THE FOLLOWING:

COURT DECISIONS; FEDERAL, STATE OR LOCAL LAWS AND/OR ORDINANCES; PAROLE BOARD DECISIONS; DISCIPLINARY DECISIONS; ROUTINE INMATE HOUSING MOVEMENT WITHOUT ANY LOSS OF PRIVELAGES; AND OTHER MATTERS BEYOND THE CONTROL OF THE GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER. INMATES MAY FILE GRIEVANCE ONLY AFTER AN ATTEMPT IS MADE TO RESOLVE THE SITUATION WITH AN OFFICER, OR SERGEANT FAMILIAR WITH THE CIRCUMSTANCES.

IF A FORMAL GRIEVANCE IS REQUIRED, THE INMATE SHALL FOLLOW THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURES:

OBTAIN A GRIEVANCE FORM FROM THE FLOOR OFFICER; AND

WRITE OUT THE GRIEVANCE, SIGN IT, AND PLACE IT IN THE MAILBOX PROVIDED.

AN INMATE WHO FILES A LARGE AMOUNT OF GROUNDLESS, FRIVOLOUS OR PREVIOUSLY ADDRESSED GRIEVANCES MAY BE CLASSIFIED AS A “GRIEVANCE SYSTEM ABUSER” AND MAY REQUIRE SPECIAL HANDLING.

GRIEVANCES RECEIVED FROM AN “ABUSER” WILL BE REVIEWED AND THOSE HAVING MERIT WILL BE HANDLED THROUGH NORMAL PROCEDURES. THOSE GRIEVANCES WITHOUT MERIT WILL BE RETAINED AND NO RESPONSE WILL BE NECESSARY.

NOTE: A GROUP OF INMATES WITH THE SAME GRIEVANCE SHOULD ELECT A SPOKES PERSON TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM.

THE GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER HAS AN INMATE WORK FORCE. INMATES WHO ARE SELECTED FOR WORK DETAILS ARE CHOSEN AFTER A REVIEW OF THEIR FILE BY THE WATCH COMMANDER.

AN INMATE MAY REQUEST TO BE PLACED ON A WORK DETAIL BY FILLING OUT AN INMATE REQUEST FORM REQUESTING A TRUSTEE APPLICATION. THERE WILL BE NO NEED FOR A SECOND REQUEST. ANY INMATE PLACED ON THE INMATE WORK FORCE WILL BE GIVEN A SET OF RULES, AND MUST ABIDE BY ALL RULES AND REGULATIONS OF TRUSTEE STATUS.

TRUSTEE STATUS CAN BE TERMINATED AT ANY TIME, FOR ANY REASON, BY DETENTION STAFF.

VIII. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

EMERGENCY INSTRUCTIONS

IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY, YOU MAY BE GIVEN INSTRUCTIONS BY THE DETENTION STAFF FOR THE ORDERLY EVACUATION OF THE FACILITY OR ANY PORTION THEREOF.

FOR YOUR PROTECTION AND SAFETY, STAFF MEMBERS HAVE BEEN TRAINED IN EMERGENCY PROCEDURES, EMERGENCY ZONES, AND EVACUATION ROUTES. YOUR COMPLETE COOPERATION IS ESSENTIAL. FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH YOUR EXACT HOUSING LOCATION AND THE AVAILABLE EVACUATION ROUTES (SEE POSTED FLOOR PLAN). STAFF MEMBERS WILL ESCORT YOU TO A SAFE LOCATION.

DO NOT PANIC. FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS AND DIRECTIONS OF STAFF MEMBERS EXACTLY. ANY DEVIATIONS FROM PRESCRIBED ROUTES WITHOUT SPECIFIC AND DIRECT INSTRUCTIONS OF A STAFF MEMBER MAY CONSTITUTE AN ATTEMPTED ESCAPE AND SUBJECT YOU TO DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS AND CRIMINAL PROSECUTION.

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

IN THE EVENT OF ANY SUDDEN OR DISRUPTIVE SITUATION WITHIN THE FACILITY A GENERAL SECURITY LOCKDOWN AND INMATE HEAD COUNT WILL BE INITIATED.

DURING ANY DISRUPTIVE PERIOD YOU ARE INSTRUCTED TO REMAIN CALM, WITHIN YOUR ASSIGNED HOUSING OR ACTIVITY AREA, AND COMPLY WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS OR DIRECTIONS OF STAFF MEMBERS EXACTLY.

IF YOU ARE NOT A PARTICIPANT, DO NOT BECOME INVOLVED.

IF YOU ARE A PARTICIPANT, YOU ARE ORDERED TO CEASE IMMEDIATELY, ALL OVERT, SUBVERSIVE AND AGGRESSIVE ACTIVITIES AND COMPLY EXACTLY WITH THE ORDERS OF STAFF MEMBER. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS DIRECTIVE DURING DISRUPTIVE SITUATIONS WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS AND CRIMINAL PROSECUTION OF ALL PARTICIPANTS.

THE USE OF THE ABOVE PROCESS DOES NOT PRECLUDE OR PREVENT PROSECUTION OF THE OFFENDER TO THE LAWS OF GEORGIA OR THE UNITED STATES.

COURT APPOINTED ATTORNEYS

HERE ARE TWO (2) WAYS TO OBTAIN A COURT APPOINTED ATTORNEY. IF YOU HAVE NOT HAD A FIRST APPEARANCE HEARING, YOU MAY ASK THE MAGISTRATE JUDGE TO ASSIST YOU IN GETTING AN APPOINTED ATTORNEY AT YOUR FIRST APPEARANCE HEARING. IF YOU HAVE HAD YOUR FIRST APPEARANCE HEARING, AND YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE AN APPOINTED ATTORNEY, YOU MUST FILL OUT A REQUEST TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY APPOINTED. THE APPLICATION MUST BE SIGNED, AND THIS REQUEST WILL BE FORWARDED TO THE PUBLIC DEFENDERS OFFICE.

IX. BONDING PROCESS

BOND CAN BE MADE AT ANY TIME, DAY OR NIGHT, TO RELEASE YOU FROM THE GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER. IF YOU ARE CHARGED WITH A BONDABLE OFFENSE, YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO SEEK A BOND FOR YOUR RELEASE FROM THIS FACILITY. BONDING REQUIRES THAT SOME TYPE OF SURETY BE POSTED AS A GOOD FAITH PROMISE THAT YOU WILL APPEAR FOR YOUR COURT DATE.

NOTE: IF YOU ARE RELEASED ON BOND, AND FAIL TO APPEAR FOR COURT, YOU WILL (NORMALLY) BE RE-ARRESTED ON A BENCH WARRANT, WHICH HAS NO BOND. THE BONDSMAN OR PERSON POSTING THE SECURITY IS HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE BOND. POSTING A BOND CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED IN SEVERAL WAYS. THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPHS BRIEFLY EXPLAIN HOW EACH TYPE OF BOND IS MADE. IN SOME CASES, BONDING METHODS ARE RESTRICTED, AND SOME TYPES MAY NOT BE ALLOWED.

CASH BOND/ CASH FINE

CASH BONDS ARE GENERALLY MADE FOR TRAFFIC OFFENSES OF A MINOR NATURE, MISDEMEANOR VIOLATIONS, AND CIVIL CASES. IN SOME CASES, THE CASH BOND MAY BE ACCEPTED AS A FINE, AND SUBSTITUTED FOR A COURT APPEARANCE. HOWEVER, IT IS YOUR RESPONCIBILITY TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE COURT.

PROPERTY BONDS

PROPERTY BOND CAN BE POSTED BY PERSONS OWNING TANGIBLE REAL ESTATE WITHIN GILMER COUNTY. THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO AUTOMOBILES, TRAVEL TRAILERS, INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT, BOATS, OR SIMILAR PROPERTY. IT MUST BE DEEDED REAL PROPERTY, USUALLY WITH A RESIDENTIAL HOME BUILT ON IT. UNDEVELOPED PROPERTY MAY BE ACCEPTED, IF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE IS SUFFICIENT TO MEET THE BONDING STANDARDS. A HOMEOWNER DESIRING TO POST HIS/HER PROPERTY FOR SOMEONE’S BOND MUST MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA:

PRODUCE A CURRENT TAX RECEIPT, SHOWING FAIR MARKET VALUE

SHOW PROOF OF IDENTITY OF ALL PERSONS NAMED ON PROPERTY

LAWFULLY SWEAR OR AFFIRM TO AND SIGN A PROPERTY BOND, STATING THAT THE PROPERTY EXISTS, IS OWNED BY THEM, AND THAT FAIR MARKET VALUE IS SUFFICIENT TO MEET BONDING STANDARDS.

NOTE: ELLIJAY AND EAST ELLIJAY POLICE DEPARTMENTS DO NOT ACCEPT PROPERTY BONDS FOR TRAFFIC CITATIONS. IF EITHER DEPARTMENT ISSUED A WARRANT PROPERTY BONDS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

PROFESSIONAL BONDING COMPANIES

ROFESSIONAL BONDING COMPANIES, LICENSSED AS BUSINESSES IN GILMER COUNTY AND REGISTERED WITH THE GILMER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE, ARE AVAILABLE FOR HIRE. THESE COMPANIES PROVIDE BONDING SERVICES IN RETURN FOR A PAID FEE. THE FEE FOR HIRING THEIR SERVICES IS (NORMALLY) NOT REFUNDABLE. ALL COMPANIES ARE AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY. LISTS OF ALL APPROVED BONDING COMPANIES, AND THEIR TELEPHONE NUMBERS, ARE LOCATED IN THE LOBBY OF THE DETENTION CENTER. EMPLOYEES OF THE GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER ARE RESTRICTED BY LAW FROM RECOMMENDING ANY BONDING COMPANY.

APPROVED BONDS/OUT OF COUNTY BONDS

BOND MADE FROM ANOTHER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE, TO RELEASE YOU FROM THE GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER, IS CALLED AN APPROVED BOND. PROCEDURES FOR THIS TYPE OF BOND ARE SIMILAR TO PROPERTY BOND PROCEDURES. THE TYPE OF BOND CRITERIA ACCEPTED FOR AN APPROVED BOND IS DETERMINED BY THE COUNTY ISSUING THE BOND. SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS OR RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED BY OTHER SHERIFFS OFFICES MUST BE FOLLOWED.

THIS INMATE HANDBOOK IS THE PROPERTY OF THE GILMER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER. UPON YOUR RELEASE FROM THIS FACILITY, THIS BOOK MUST BE RETURNED IN GOOD CONDITION. IF THIS BOOK IS DAMAGED OR DESTROYED, YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR THE REPLACEMENT COST PRIOR TO YOUR RELEASE FROM THIS DETENTION CENTER.