RANDOLPH COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

POLICY:

It is the policy of the Randolph County Detention Center to ensure the safety and security of staff, detainees, and facility operations during intake of individuals exhibiting combative behavior or signs of intoxication. All actions taken shall be consistent with constitutional standards, state law, and departmental use-of-force and medical care policies.

DEFINITIONS:

Combative Detainee - Any detainee who resists, threatens, or engages in aggressive physical behavior toward staff or others.

Intoxicated Detainee - Any detainee displaying visible signs of impairment due to alcohol, narcotics, or other substances, as determined by observation or law enforcement report.

PROCEDURES:

1. Intake Assessment

1. Arresting/transporting officer must notify intake staff if the detainee is believed to be intoxicated or has demonstrated combative behavior.

2. Intake staff will conduct a visual and verbal assessment to determine level of impairment and immediate risks.

3. If detainee presents with life-threatening medical concerns (e.g., unconsciousness, severe overdose symptoms, respiratory distress), they shall be transported directly to a medical facility prior to admission.

2. Safety and Control Measures

1. Staff shall use approved verbal de-escalation techniques as the first means of addressing combative behavior.

2. If verbal intervention is unsuccessful, staff may employ approved control and restraint techniques in compliance with the facility’s Use of Force Policy.

3. Restraints may be used when necessary to protect staff, detainees, or the individual from self-harm, with supervisory approval.

4. All uses of force or restraints must be documented in an incident report.

3. Medical Screening

1. A preliminary medical screening shall be conducted during intake, with particular attention to level of consciousness, vital signs (if feasible), and visible injuries.

2. Detainees suspected of alcohol or drug overdose, severe withdrawal risk, or medical instability must be referred immediately to an outside medical facility.

3. When admitted, detainees shall be placed on heightened observation for signs of withdrawal or medical deterioration and monitored according to medical staff recommendations.

4. Housing Assignment

1. Combative or highly intoxicated detainees may be temporarily housed in a designated holding or detoxification cell until stable.

2. Detainees shall not be housed with the general population until they can comply with facility rules and demonstrate safe behavior.

5. Monitoring

1. Intoxicated detainees placed in holding must be monitored at intervals not to exceed 15 minutes, with documentation of condition and behavior.

2. If restraints are applied, checks must follow facility restraint policy, including circulation and safety assessments.

6. Documentation

1.  All incidents involving combative or intoxicated detainees must be documented in the facility’s records, including:

• Observations of intoxication or combativeness

• Use of force or restraints

• Medical assessments and referrals

• Monitoring logs and housing decisions

2. Supervisory staff shall review all reports for compliance and training needs.

7. Staff Training

1. All staff shall receive training in:

• Recognizing signs of intoxication and withdrawal

• Crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques

• Safe application of restraints

• Emergency medical response procedures

RESPONSIBILITY:

It is the responsibility of all intake staff, medical staff, and supervisors to ensure compliance with this policy.