RANDOLPH COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

3.9.1 Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish minimum staffing requirements necessary to ensure the safe, secure, and orderly operation of the Randolph County Detention Center. Adequate staffing levels are essential to maintain facility security, protect staff, and safeguard the welfare of all detainees.

3.9.2 Policy

It is the policy of the Randolph County Detention Center that no shift shall operate with fewer than three (3) detention officers on duty at any time, except as specifically authorized under limited and controlled circumstances outlined in this policy.

3.9.3 Procedures

A. Shift Supervisor / Officer in Charge Responsibilities

1. The Shift Supervisor or Officer in Charge (OIC) shall ensure that minimum staffing levels are maintained at all times.

2. In the event staffing falls below the required minimum, the Shift Supervisor or OIC shall immediately take corrective action to restore staffing levels.

3. Corrective actions may include, but are not limited to:

3. • Contacting and calling in off-duty personnel;

3. • Requesting assistance from approved relief staff;

3. • Adjusting duty assignments to maintain operational safety and security.

4. The Shift Supervisor or OIC shall continuously monitor staffing levels throughout the shift to ensure compliance.

B. Notification and Chain of Command

1. If immediate staffing coverage cannot be secured, the Shift Supervisor or OIC shall promptly notify the chain of command.

2. Notification shall require direct verbal contact with a member of the chain of command.

2. • Leaving a voicemail, sending a text message, or other indirect communication does not satisfy this requirement.

3. The Shift Supervisor or OIC shall remain on duty and maintain command responsibility until minimum staffing levels are restored.

4. All staffing shortages and corrective actions taken shall be documented and submitted to administration as soon as practicable.

C. Temporary Staffing Exception (Weekends and Holidays Only)

1. On weekends and recognized holidays, one (1) detention officer may temporarily leave the facility to obtain meals for on-duty staff when necessary.

2. During this temporary absence:

2. • Staffing levels may be reduced to two (2) detention officers;

2. • The absence shall be limited to the minimum time necessary to complete the task;

2. • Under no circumstances shall the absence exceed thirty (30) minutes.

3. The Shift Supervisor or OIC shall ensure that facility security is not compromised during the temporary staffing reduction.

3.9.4 Accountability & Documentation

1. The Shift Supervisor or OIC is responsible for ensuring full compliance with this policy.

2. Any deviation from minimum staffing requirements shall be thoroughly documented, including:

2. • Time and duration of the shortage;

2. • Reason for the shortage;

2. • Actions taken to correct the deficiency;

2. • Notification of the chain of command.

3. Documentation shall be forwarded to the appropriate administrative authority for review.

3.9.5 Enforcement

Failure to comply with this policy, including failure to maintain minimum staffing levels or properly notify the chain of command, may result in administrative review and corrective action, up to and including disciplinary measures, as determined by the Randolph County Detention Center Administrator.