Investigation of Restraint Device use in Iowa's County Jail

(2009) Investigation of Restraint Device use in Iowa's County Jail. Iowa Citizens' Aide/Ombudsman

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Abstract

Executive Summary The use of full-body restraint devices is a widespread practice in Iowa’s county jails. Full-body restraints come in the form of restraint chairs, boards, and beds, including two such devices manufactured in Iowa. Iowa law, which refers to these as four- and fivepoint restraints, states they are only to be used when an inmate is a threat to self, others, or jail security. However, the Ombudsman found they were also used on inmates who caused minor disruptions or in response to an inmate’s verbal abuse. In some cases, the restraints were used on inmates with known mental illness who were acting out, though no attempts were made to seek medical or mental health reviews for those inmates while restrained, leading to extended use of the restraint device.

Item Type: Departmental Report
Keywords: Jails, Restraint of Prisoners, Iowa
Subjects: Law enforcement and courts > Crime
Law enforcement and courts > Local police
Law enforcement and courts
ID Code: 7150
Deposited By: Margaret Barr
Deposited On: 07 Apr 2009 15:07
Last Modified: 07 Apr 2009 15:07
URI: https://publications.iowa.gov/id/eprint/7150