The Florida Department of Corrections released a nine page report last Wednesday covering several issues at the Osceola County jail. Over 40 major security-related problems were found.
Osceola County is home to many known violent gangs, and with the jail recently making headlines for escaped inmates, drug trafficking, and lax following of security protocols by prison workers, residents of the subdivisions close to the jail are understandably concerned.
According to Chief of the Bureau of Security Operations James R. Upchurch, a four-day security audit of the jail was conducted, starting on April 5th of this year. It was mainly focused on escape-prevention issues, and “…possible enhancements intended to reduce the likelihood of future such incidents. The criterions utilized were derived from our department's established security standards. Those specific standards selected for application to the jail are those generic to any secure corrections facility, prison or jail, which houses persons posing a significant threat to public safety. Hopefully the observations and recommendations in this report will prove to be of some benefit as you strive to enhance security at the facility.”
Among the many observations and recommendations listed in the report, the Department of Corrections noted that the 10-inch drain pipes on site need to be numbered and mapped, and that records need to be kept of routine inspections for signs of tampering with their gratings.
It was also noted in the report that clear guidelines need to be set and enforced with respect to managing an inmate escape in progress. For example, when and where such actions as giving verbal commands and firing warning shots are appropriate, versus firing a weapon directly at an escaping inmate.
Puzzling in a populated part of a growing state in 21st century America, the Osceola County jail actually has no electronic perimeter detection system. The report recommends that the jail “Install an electronic perimeter detection/alert system on the facility's perimeter. There are several options for such a system including fence-mounted sound and vibration sensing detection systems and non-lethal electrified fence systems providing detection, deterrence and an enhanced barrier. Either of these two options would work well for this application and can be combined with an integrated perimeter camera system that can be utilized
to instantly view intrusion detection events and dispatch perimeter staff as necessary. The Department of Corrections utilizes both of these systems extensively and can serve as a resource in this regard. The anticipated cost of either system is dramatically less than the estimate reportedly provided to jail facility staff for such a system. Additionally, such a system combined with an adequate razor wire enhanced chain link barrier can significantly reduce the recurring costs associated with multiple manned perimeter posts as is presently in place at the facility. The system's one-time acquisition cost and minimal recurring maintenance cost along with the need for only one armed/manned vehicular post will significantly reduce costs while providing enhanced security and escape prevention for the facility.”
The jail has since begun to comply with the report’s recommendations. For example, several storage sheds, which could have been used as hiding spots by potential escapees, have been removed from the grounds. This process actually began while the security audit was being conducted.
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