Immediately, prior to an inmate entering a courtroom for a jury trial, personnel shall conduct a secondary pat down search. The search should include utilizing a handheld metal detector (if available) to find altered razors or any other metal object on the inmate’s body or clothing. The use of the handheld wand can initially be conducted at the main service level or an adjacent lockup holding area prior to escorting the inmate into the courtroom. Additionally, a visual inspection of the inmate’s mouth shall be conducted. The visual inspection shall include directing the inmate to swipe the interior of his/her mouth to ensure it is void of a slicing device (razor blade).
After the secondary search has been conducted, the inmate should be escorted directly into the courtroom or a secured holding cell. Should the inmate return to the holding cell after court proceedings, personnel shall again conduct the secondary search (including visual search and finger swipe of their mouth) before allowing the inmate to return to the courtroom. If a handheld metal detector is available, the bailiff is encouraged to use it again to ensure a thorough search is conducted.