RANDOLPH COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

1.7.1 Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish the authority, structure, and procedures governing emergency decision-making within the Randolph County Detention Center during critical incidents that threaten life, safety, security, or the orderly operation of the facility.

1.7.2 Policy Statement

During declared emergency conditions, designated command staff are authorized to take immediate and reasonable actions necessary to preserve life, maintain security, restore order, and protect the public, staff, and detainees. Such authority shall be exercised in accordance with constitutional standards and applicable law.

1.7.3 Declaration of Emergency

An emergency may be declared when conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Riots or major disturbances;

• Hostage situations;

• Fire, explosion, or hazardous conditions;

• Escape attempts or mass security breaches;

• Natural disasters or utility failures;

• Any event posing immediate threat to life or facility security;

The authority to declare an emergency rests with the Sheriff, Chief Jail Administrator, or the highest-ranking on-duty supervisor in the absence of higher command.

1.7.4 Emergency Authority and Powers

Upon declaration of an emergency, authorized command personnel may:

• Initiate lockdown of all or part of the facility;

• Restrict detainee movement and suspend normal operations;

• Deploy staff and resources as necessary for control and safety;

• Request assistance from external law enforcement or emergency services;

• Temporarily modify operational procedures to address the emergency;

• Activate emergency response teams or specialized units;

1.7.5 Continuity of Command

A clear chain of command shall remain in effect during all emergency operations. In the absence of higher authority, command shall automatically transfer to the next highest-ranking available supervisor.

1.7.6 Use of Force During Emergencies

Force may be used during emergency conditions when reasonably necessary to restore order, protect life, or prevent escape. All uses of force shall be documented and reviewed as soon as practicable following stabilization of the incident.

1.7.7 Communication and Notification

During emergencies, command staff shall ensure timely communication with:

• Sheriff's Office administration;

• Emergency medical services;

• Fire departments;

• Other law enforcement agencies as needed;

• County or state emergency management authorities when appropriate;

1.7.8 Post-Emergency Review

Following any declared emergency, a formal after-action review shall be conducted to evaluate:

• Response effectiveness;

• Policy compliance;

• Staff performance;

• Equipment and resource adequacy;

• Recommendations for corrective action;

1.7.9 Termination of Emergency Status

Emergency status shall remain in effect until officially terminated by the Sheriff or authorized command staff once conditions have stabilized and normal operations can safely resume.

1.7.10 Compliance and Accountability

All personnel shall comply with lawful emergency directives. Failure to comply with emergency orders may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination and/or criminal prosecution where applicable.