Too many rules can cause disciplinary problems, waste staff time and create an overly repressive atmosphere. Too many rules also weaken the effectiveness of the important rules that are necessary for the facility to operate efficiently and effectively. Maintaining discipline within a local detention facility is critical to safety, security, and efficient facility operations. Written policies and procedures ensure consistency and fairness in their application. Although the discipline system will vary depending on a wide variety of needs at individual facilities, this standard establishes key elements required to satisfy current legal and operational needs.
Counseling is among the first actions to be taken in response to lesser rule violations.
Counseling is personal and informal. It encourages the minor to respond in a mature responsible manner. Counseling can be an effective tool in the disciplinary process. It relies on the skill and sensitivity of staff to diffuse potential disciplinary problems before they escalate. This kind of informal handling of lesser infractions does not require documentation.