Occasionally, inmates in custody will have crutches. Not all situations can be anticipated regarding inmates with crutches, therefore, each case is to be evaluated prior to the movement of an inmate with crutches.
All inmates escorted or transported outside of a secure facility shall be handcuffed or chained. If approval from a supervisor is received to allow the inmate to be transported without handcuffs, the transporting Deputy shall maintain constant visual surveillance and control of the inmate. Do not become complacent. Always be discerning of the need for security.
While crutches pose a security problem, further injury to the inmate can sometimes occur when an inmate is required to move without the aid of crutches. This often occurs when an ankle or leg is broken and minimal weight bearing is prescribed.
Due to lack of medical qualifications, Transportation Bureau personnel shall not make any determination as to which inmates may be moved without crutches. If an inmate has crutches, he shall be permitted to keep them during any movement. If a breech of security is conceivable, the crutches may be removed from the inmates while he is seated in a Bureau vehicle or in the Female Lockup. The crutches shall be returned to the inmate when he is required to move to another location. If there is any question regarding the procedures for transporting an inmate with crutches, contact a supervisor.