Standard 5.10

Standard statement

The agency shall have a written directive which requires examination at the beginning of each shift of all vehicles used for transporting detainees and the search of any transport vehicles after transporting detainees.

Discussion

The intent of this standard is to ensure that any vehicle used to transport a detainee is free of weapons and contraband before and after the detainee comes in contact with the vehicle. An examination before beginning each shift will ensure the vehicle has not been tampered with since last used, is free of weapons and contraband, is mechanically safe, is free of damage or defect, and is properly equipped for use. Each time a detainee is to be transported, the vehicle should be examined to ensure that no weapons or contraband are present. Some latitude may be allowed where an officer has been in constant control of the vehicle following the pre-shift examination and the introduction of the detainee to the vehicle; however, most vehicles will not have been under constant supervision and officers should not assume that no opportunity has existed for the introduction of weapons, contraband, or other items. Once a detainee has been removed from the vehicle, a thorough search should be conducted as soon as practical, but, in all cases, before the vehicle is reused. This will not only ensure that the detainee has left nothing in the vehicle, but if items are found, link them in a timely manner to the detainee. In special transport situations, it is the transporting officer's responsibility to ensure that the vehicle is safe and equipped with appropriate items; for example, spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and safety flares. The condition of the vehicle itself should be examined, including proper inflation of tires, fuel and oil levels, ignition system, and engine operation. The transporting officer should have proper forms or credit cards for procurement of gasoline, as well as all detainee-related documentation.

The discussion clarifies intent and is not a binding part of the standard. For assessment purposes you are required to comply only with the standard statement.