Gordon Graham
Category: Corrections
Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today’s Tip is for all my friends in corrections. I’d like to talk about scanning and digitizing inmate mail to control contraband.
Managing correctional facilities involves a complex web of challenges. One persistent threat to every facility is the introduction of contraband. And inmate mail is often an entry point.
Corrections professionals know that contraband plays a significant role in any facility. In many cases, it’s more valuable to inmates than currency. And contraband, particularly drugs, poses a significant health and safety risk to inmates, staff, and visitors.
There are challenges, but perhaps the balancing act is worth consideration.
Mail distribution involves a careful balancing act. On one hand, correctional staff are responsible for inmate well-being and quality of life. An inmate’s well-being may improve when they receive written correspondence. On the other hand, correctional staff must also ensure facility safety and security.
Digitizing incoming mail has emerged as a potential solution to meet both needs. It’s easy to see how this process could enhance security. However, implementing a digitized mail system isn’t without its challenges.
One argument against digitizing is that it strips away the privacy and sentimentality of inmate mail. Another factor is cost, which can be prohibitive for some facilities. We’ve also got to consider what it takes to coordinate with outside vendors responsible for scanning the mail.
Administrators will have to weigh the pros and cons to determine whether mail digitization is a viable program. Will this process actually reduce incoming contraband? Is it worth the investment? Will it have an adverse impact on inmate morale?
With advances in technology, digitizing inmate mail seems to be a natural next step in corrections. It also aligns with the broader trend of leveraging technology when delivering services. And it might just offer another solution in the ongoing battle against contraband. There are challenges, but perhaps the balancing act is worth consideration.
And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.
