West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 90 - Corrections
Overview of Agency 90 – Corrections
Agency 90 governs the administration and operation of correctional facilities in West Virginia. Its primary purpose is to provide a framework for the management, security, rehabilitation, and welfare of incarcerated individuals while maintaining public safety.
It addresses:
Correctional Facility Operations
Inmate Rights and Responsibilities
Staff Duties and Conduct
Rehabilitation and Programs
Security and Safety Measures
Administrative Procedures
1. Correctional Facility Operations
Agency 90 sets standards for the operation of state prisons, jails, and other correctional institutions. Key elements include:
Facility Management: Each facility must have a clear chain of command, with the warden responsible for overall administration.
Living Conditions: Adequate food, water, sanitation, and medical care must be provided.
Classification: Inmates are classified based on offense, risk level, and rehabilitation needs to ensure proper housing and safety.
2. Inmate Rights and Responsibilities
Agency 90 establishes rules that balance inmate rights with security requirements.
Rights include:
Access to basic necessities like clothing, bedding, and hygiene.
Medical and mental health care.
Access to educational and vocational programs.
Freedom from cruel or unusual punishment.
Responsibilities include:
Following facility rules and regulations.
Respecting staff and fellow inmates.
Participating in programs when required.
Maintaining cleanliness and order in assigned areas.
3. Staff Duties and Conduct
The Agency sets clear standards for correctional officers and other staff:
Duties: Include supervising inmates, enforcing rules, maintaining security, and reporting violations.
Training: Staff must undergo continuous training on security, emergency procedures, and inmate management.
Conduct: Staff must act professionally, avoid abuse or harassment, and treat inmates fairly.
4. Rehabilitation and Programs
A key goal of Agency 90 is rehabilitation to reduce recidivism:
Educational Programs: Literacy classes, GED programs, and vocational training.
Counseling Services: Substance abuse, mental health, and behavioral counseling.
Work Programs: Opportunities for inmates to develop skills through labor or workshops.
Reentry Planning: Programs to help inmates reintegrate into society after release.
5. Security and Safety Measures
Agency 90 emphasizes maintaining a secure and safe environment:
Physical Security: Fences, gates, surveillance systems, and controlled entry/exit points.
Emergency Procedures: Protocols for fires, riots, escapes, or medical emergencies.
Contraband Control: Rules to prevent smuggling of weapons, drugs, or other prohibited items.
Use of Force: Staff may use force only as necessary for security, following strict guidelines.
6. Administrative Procedures
Agency 90 also defines procedural rules for corrections:
Inmate Records: Accurate documentation of personal information, criminal history, and behavior.
Grievance Process: Procedures for inmates to report complaints or disputes.
Disciplinary Actions: Clear policies for handling infractions, including warnings, segregation, or loss of privileges.
Inspections and Audits: Regular reviews to ensure compliance with agency standards.
Key Objectives of Agency 90
Ensure humane treatment of inmates.
Maintain public safety through secure facilities.
Promote rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Standardize operations across all correctional facilities in West Virginia.
Support correctional staff with clear duties and accountability.
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