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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
ID and Biometrics Check:
At the front desk.
Airlock Chamber:
Secondary verification step.
Third Stage:
Additional biometric verification.
Fourth Stage:
Metal detectors.
Fifth Stage:
Full body search.
Key Room:
High-security room where all keys are stored.
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.
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