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2000 SESSION

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SJ 54 Study; super-maximum security facilities.

Introduced by: Janet D. Howell | all patrons    ...    notes | add to my profiles

SUMMARY AS INTRODUCED:

Super-maximum security facilities. Directs the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) to study the operation of the two super-maximum security facilities, Red Onion and Wallen's Ridge State Prisons, operated by the Department of Corrections. In its study, JLARC shall include (i) an analysis of the extent to which the Department's classification system is, in fact, ensuring that only dangerous, predatory or escape-risk inmates are being confined at Level 6 facilities, including an analysis of criteria and procedures for placement at and release from these facilities; (ii) an evaluative comparison of the Department's classification system, as it pertains to the placement of inmates in its Level 6 facilities and of the Department's use of segregation in Level 6 facilities, with best practices models in other states; (iii) an analysis of the need for two super-maximum security facilities in Virginia given current population projections and analysis of proportion of inmates who are dangerous or disruptive; (iv) an evaluation of the inmate and staff safety at Red Onion and Wallen's Ridge State Prisons; (v) the number of inmates annually at Red Onion and Wallen's Ridge State Prisons who are eligible for parole or who are serving less than life sentences and who may one day re-enter society; (vi) an assessment of the number of inmates at Level 6 facilities who are mentally ill and whether confinement of mentally ill inmates in super-maximum facilities is consistent with their treatment needs; (vii) an evaluation of the extent to which inmate programs that reduce idleness and promote development of personal, educational and vocational skills could be increased at the Commonwealth's Level 6 facilities without jeopardizing safety and security; and (viii) an analysis of the extent to which super-maximum security facilities contribute to the fulfillment of the Commonwealth's rehabilitation mandate.


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