Conference VideoReturn to index of conference videos These streaming videos require the free QuickTime player software from Apple Computer. Conference Session: Session IX—Oversight of Jails and Private Prisons Speaker(s): Bill Collins, former Assistant Attorney General, Washington State, and author of “Jail and Prison Legal Issues: An Administrator’s Guide” (Moderator) Date: Length: 71 minutes Description: This panel discussion explores the special challenges presented by external oversight of county jails in the United States and of private correctional facilities. Doug Dretke, director of the Texas prison system, details the contract monitoring system in place with regard to private prisons (as opposed to jails) in Texas and explains how the state regulates private prisons. Private prisons in Texas are required to meet all the same standards as public prisons, and they are scheduled for routine operational reviews by internal auditors from the state prison system. After some audience discussion about oversight of private facilities, Merrick Bobb then describes the methodology he uses to monitor the enormous Los Angeles county jail system, and argues for the need to collect meaningful data that allows reviewers to learn about systemic problems. Next, Paul Downing provides an overview of the methods used by various states to provide oversight of local jails, including the frequent practice of having state prison agencies inspect local jails. He emphasizes that no one state stands out as a model for effective jail oversight. There is extensive audience discussion following the presentations. The statements made here represent the speakers' own thoughts. Neither the LBJ School of Public Affairs, The University of Texas at Austin, nor any organization providing support for this effort necessarily endorses the views and statements included here. |
