7-03/090.05 Funeral Escorts and/or Family Contact

Transportation Bureau Deputies will wear suitable business attire when assigned to execute a court order requiring the removal of an inmate for the purpose of attending a funeral, visiting a critically ill relative or any similar situation where the prisoner will be in close contact with  relatives. An unmarked car will be used for these assignments. A leg brace or leg chain secured with padlocks shall be used on the inmate for all funerals and other events where the inmate will have contact with relatives, whether or not the inmate is wearing handcuffs.  The inmate will be handcuffed until his arrival at the location specified in the court order. Normally, the handcuffs may be removed prior to the inmate alighting from the vehicle. The leg brace or chain shall not be removed. Escorting Deputies shall remain close enough to maintain visual contact, and control of the inmate.

If proper security measures cannot be arranged and maintained throughout the trip, the inmate shall be immediately returned to the custodial facility. If transportation of the inmate presents unusual security problems, additional security measures should be discussed with a supervisor prior to transporting the inmate.

Generally, court orders for funerals or other family contact will be obtained through the Men's Central Jail Chaplain's Office. However, they may arrive directly from court. When the court order conflicts with our policy, a cancellation should be requested through the Chaplain's Office. The Unit Commander shall be advised in all cases when a court order conflicts with our transportation policy.

Inmates shall not be transported to funerals or other types of family contact, except for family members. For the purposes of this order, a family member shall be one of the following:

• Parent (natural and legal guardian)
• Spouse
• Children (natural and legally adopted)
• Step children
• Brother or sister
• Step or half brother or sister
• Grandparents
• Grandchildren

Other limitations are as follows:

• Federal prisoners shall not be transported to funerals or hospital visits by Transportation Bureau personnel.
• County prisoners with State holds will not be transported to funeral or hospital visits unless the holds are removed.
• State prisoners will not be transported to funerals or hospital visits by Transportation Bureau personnel.
• Inmates charged with murder, potential two strike or three strike inmates and/or inmates who have bail in excess of $50,000.00 are not eligible.
• Inmates who are classified as security risks or who are potentially dangerous or violent are not eligible.
• Transportation to hospitals and funerals will generally be permitted only between 0900 and 1300 hours, Monday through Friday; however, the Watch Commander may extend the hours when resources are available.
• Funerals or visits to critically ill persons shall be limited to locations within Los Angeles county. Catholic inmates may choose between attending the rosary or the general service, but cannot attend both.

Any deviation from the above policy must have the prior approval of the Watch Commander or higher.