Correctional Officers excessive use of deadly and non-deadly force in the United States and Jamaica

• In Event: New Research on Social Control and Social Organization in Prison

Abstract

Correctional Officers excessive use of deadly and non-deadly force: A comparative Study in the United States and Jamaica

Shantol McIntosh


Department of Justice Studies
Prairie View A&M University

The literature shows that like, police officers, correctional officers are also criticized for excessive use of force among prisoners under their care. Research also shows that the use of force is legally acceptable by correction officers in the following situations: self-defense, defense of third persons, upholding prison rules, prevention of a crime, and escape. However, once these officers overstep their boundaries and jeopardize the prisoners' rights, we can refer to excessive use of force. This study examines correction officers' excessive use of deadly and non-deadly force occurrences in the United States and Jamaica over the last 5-10 years. Relevant case laws, journal articles, national newspapers, and other scholarly studies will be examined to highlight the themes, trends, and findings.
Keywords: Correctional officers, Excessive use of deadly and non-deadly force, Comparative study, United States, Jamaica

Author

• Shantol McIntosh, Prairie View A&M University