HMP Foss - High Tech Prison Tour

Jul 22, 2024

HMP Foss - Technologically Advanced Prison

Introduction

  • Tour of HMP Foss, a technologically advanced prison.
  • Goal: Understand the benefits of tech in prison and its impact on inmates.
  • Led by Dave, who helped design the prison.

Security Measures

Initial Steps

  • Airlock System: First and last point of security with striped lines to prevent escape.
  • Cameras: 5 cameras observing at the entrance; 1,700 cameras throughout the prison.

Verification Process

  1. ID and Biometrics Check: At the front desk.
  2. Airlock Chamber: Secondary verification step.
  3. Third Stage: Additional biometric verification.
  4. Fourth Stage: Metal detectors.
  5. Fifth Stage: Full body search.
  6. Key Room: High-security room where all keys are stored.
  7. Video Call Verification: Final stage before entering the main compound.
  • Seven Security Stages: Various types (biometric, physical keys, human control).

Fence Security

  • Different heights and types: 5.2m (anti-climb) for high-risk areas, 3.6m for general use.
  • Design to prevent attempts to climb or escape.
  • Categories of UK prison security:
    • Category A: Maximum security.
    • Category B: Escape risk but no max security needed.
    • Category C: Unlikely to try escaping.
    • Category D: Open prison.

Maintaining Family Ties

Visitor Center

  • Controlled booking system for visits.
  • Online visits with regulated access.
  • Importance: Offenders who maintain family ties are 39% less likely to reoffend.

Virtual Courtroom

  • Efficient, cost-effective way to attend court.
  • Reduces risk and time compared to physical presence.

Use of Dogs in Security

  • Four Types of Dogs: Passive drug, active drug, explosives, attack.
  • Dogs have heightened senses, more reliable than technological substitutes.
  • Used to find drugs, explosives, and contraband.

Incident Response

  • Drone Support: DJI Mavic 3T for aerial surveillance.
  • Live Imaging: Transmitted to command center during incidents.

Prison Environment

Cells and Recreation

  • Barless windows designed for psychological well-being.
  • Biometric Systems: Used for medication distribution.
  • Recreation: Controlled access, work, and education mandatory.

Technology in Cells

  • Computers for education, e.g., Open University.
  • Monitored phone calls; specific contacts allowed.
  • Minimal technology to prepare inmates for reintegration.

Workshops

  • Partner companies teach skills to inmates (e.g., digger simulator, music, barber, optics).
  • Goal: Provide relevant employment skills for post-release.

Control Room

  • Highly restricted, critical area.
  • 1,700 cameras monitored, Biometrics processed here.
  • Nerve center of prison operations.

Inmate Experience

  • Four years left in sentence.
  • Positive comments on the educational programs and ability to keep in touch with family via email and messenger services.
  • Inmate uses prison time for self-improvement, such as learning new languages.

Conclusion

  • Summary of the insights on the tech-driven approach at HMP Foss and its effect on security and inmate rehabilitation.