Prisoner Transport Notes

Court Security Act

  • Authority derived from Court Security Act, Section 3, Subsection 2 (D).
  • Lockdowns can be partial or full; do not take them lightly.
  • Be able to justify all actions taken.

Prisoner Transport Overview

  • Focus on prisoner management and escorts.
  • Driving is primary task for drivers during prisoner transport.

Types of Prisoner Transport

  • Local Transportation:
    • Adult van in Regina (also transports youths).
    • "Around the world" route for pickups/drop-offs at various facilities.
  • Provincial Corridor:
    • Regina: Bus runs five days a week to Saskatoon.
    • Saskatoon: One bus travels around.
    • North Battleford: One bus.
    • Prince Albert (PA): Two buses.

General Rules for Prisoner Transport

  • Rules apply the same regardless of transport type (local, corridor, provincial).
  • More resources available for escorts within the city compared to longer drives.

Communication Procedures

  • Corridor:
    • Call dispatch using PA 911.
    • Inform dispatch of identity and location.
  • Local (Del Paso):
    • Use local channel 206 Dispatch.
    • No need to inform PA 911 due to complexity.
    • Maintain communication with at least two personnel.
  • Policy requires two deputies in the van at all times.
  • Exceptions:
    • One deputy with a trailing vehicle for deadheading (with approval).
    • Assessment based on the risk level of prisoners being transported.

Responsibilities During Prisoner Transport

  • Driver:
    • Driving safely.
    • Monitoring cameras.
    • Ensuring prisoner safety.
    • Keeping the other deputy informed of suspicious vehicles and location.
    • Assisting with radio procedures when necessary.
  • Second Deputy (Jumper/Navigator):
    • Monitoring cameras.
    • Checking surroundings.
    • Handling radio communications.
    • Primary responsibility is observing offenders in the back.

Camera System and Prisoner Monitoring

  • Constant CTV monitoring not expected on long trips (e.g., Regina to Saskatoon).
  • Music is typically played in the back to maintain calm and prevent eavesdropping.
  • Be aware that prisoners can overhear conversations despite the barrier.
  • Avoid discussing sensitive topics about prisoners or personal matters.

Prisoner Information Awareness

  • Be cautious about discussing prisoner movements, especially for high-risk individuals like "OB" (dangerous offender).
  • Avoid revealing details about transport schedules or security measures.

Camera System Maintenance

  • New camera systems are being installed in vans.
  • Report any issues with camera systems (e.g., audio/video malfunctions) promptly.

Segregation and Prisoner Seating

  • Vans typically have three areas: side pod, short pod, and long pod.
  • Control desk personnel usually dictate seating arrangements.
  • Inform David (corridor) or relevant authorities of any known or suspected issues between prisoners.

Weapon Protocol

  • Both members in the transport are in a gunned position.
  • Always remember to secure weapons when detaining or dropping off offenders.
  • Follow facility policies regarding weapons; detention facilities don't allow weapons.
  • Communicate and confirm with partner about weapon status during transitions.

Coordination with Intake Personnel

  • Communicate with intake personnel regarding prisoner handover procedures.
  • Advocate for safety if conflicting instructions arise, prioritizing prisoner security in the van.

Corridor Assignments in Regina

  • Typically a one-week assignment.
  • Operate from an office at the CBA head office.

Responsibilities Before Departure

  • Ensure you have the manifest and all necessary gear.
  • Verify the van is fueled, washed (inside and out), and ready.
  • Confirm you have your weapon and all necessary gear.

Emergency Equipment and Supplies

  • Crash kits located under/between seats include communication devices, flashlights, and gear.
  • In winter, bring winter gear and suggest prisoners are properly dressed by corrections.

Vehicle Inspection

  • Perform circle checks around the vehicle to verify locks and doors are functional.
  • Report any issues that could cause an escape or security concern to David or a staff sergeant.

Corridor Transport Coordination

  • Adhere to tight timelines for corridor transport.
  • Ensure Regina crew can meet counterparts in Saskatoon for prisoner pickup and return.
  • Minimize wait times in Regina for other locations (PA, Saskatoon, North Battleford) to transport.

Vehicle Maintenance and Checks

  • Ensure kit and vehicle are in good condition.
  • Fuel and wash the vehicle at the end of the night for the next day.
  • Perform start-up checks in the morning.
  • Report any issues, such as a flat tire, to allow time for resolution.

Transport Positions

  • Corridor transport is typically a rotating position in Regina.
  • Staff in PA may have dedicated individuals for transport.
  • Saskatoon operates within the unit.
  • PA has buses running multiple times daily on long routes.
  • Staff in Regina may find the provincial transport less appealing due to longer drive times.
  • Training and pay are the same for all staff, except for meals.

Training and Mentorship

  • New staff receive training with experienced deputies like Junior and Thomas.
  • The bus can be appealing for those who prefer outdoor work.

Emergency Lights

  • New vans are equipped with orange and white emergency lights.
  • Lights are for indicating emergencies, not for violating traffic laws or high-speed travel.
  • Use in situations like accidents or snowstorms to alert other drivers.
  • Request for red and blue lights was declined at the ministry level.

Contact Lists

  • Every vehicle must have a contact list.
  • Include RCMP detachments, hospitals, and contact information.
  • Rod wants to increase the list: all RCMP detachments, their location, hospitals and contact information also included in this checklist in a in a booklet in every vehicle.
  • RCMP detachments are the lifeline.
  • When you needed an unruly prisoner, go to an RCMP detachment.
  • Examples: Craven, Lumsden

Dealing with Medical Emergencies

  • Pull over when there is a risk of grievous bodily harm or death, "medical emergency".
  • Notify radios: Superiors know where you are at
  • Extreme medical situations. Do whatever you have to do.
  • Be cognizant of you have what you have in the van.
  • Go to RCMP when you have issues.

Breakdowns

  • Activate lights
  • Fix the issue yourself you can.
  • Call it in.
  • Have dispatch ready to go with a spare.

Accidents

  • Regardless of the degree you have to report it.
  • Report it to CVA.
  • Check priors to leaving.
  • Whether knew it or not, you're obiligated to note it to CVA.
  • Exchange information and give them help. But do not admit guilts.

Communication

  • Check ins are a must!!
  • They give you a very little amount of time, five minutes.
  • Phone calls go down the list when you don't call.
  • Always remain with the vehicle.

Runners

  • If prisoner runs what you need to done.
  • Remember the other prisoners. It's still on your shoulders to watch over them.
  • questions will be asked why you opened it and the protocols of the cuffs.

Drugs

  • Haven of people trying to get rid of the drugs. Before entering the facility.
  • Keep a close watch on this.
  • Be aware of hot tempers.
  • If we retake the prisoner they will searched.
  • Corrections does searches for you.

Vehicle Conditions

  • Some Vehicles may not record all the time.
  • Always pay attention to the video recording devices.
  • If camera stops one must watch the passengers from the back.
  • Check Side by Side.