Legal Definitions - special housing unit

A Special Housing Unit (SHU) is a designated area within a correctional facility where inmates are held separately from the general prison population. This separation typically occurs for specific reasons, such as maintaining order and discipline, or to ensure the safety of the inmate or others. Inmates housed in a SHU generally experience more restrictive conditions and fewer privileges compared to those in the general population.

• Example 1 (Disciplinary Action): An inmate, Mr. Rodriguez, repeatedly engages in violent altercations with other prisoners and staff, despite numerous warnings. To prevent further incidents and maintain order within the facility, prison authorities decide to move Mr. Rodriguez to a Special Housing Unit.

  This illustrates a SHU being used for disciplinary purposes, separating an inmate who poses a threat to the general population due to repeated rule violations and violent behavior. His placement in the SHU is a direct consequence of his actions, leading to more restrictive conditions.

• Example 2 (Safety of Others): Following a major riot in a prison yard, several inmates are identified as key instigators who incited violence and caused significant damage. To prevent them from organizing further disturbances and to ensure the safety of other inmates and staff, these individuals are temporarily placed in a Special Housing Unit while investigations are conducted and disciplinary actions are determined.

  Here, the SHU is used to isolate inmates who pose an immediate safety risk to the entire facility after a serious incident. This separation is crucial for restoring order and preventing further harm, aligning with the safety rationale for SHU placement.

• Example 3 (Inmate's Own Safety): Ms. Chen, a former gang member, decides to cooperate with authorities in an investigation into illegal activities within the prison. Due to credible threats made against her by her former associates, prison officials determine that her safety would be severely compromised if she remained in the general population. She is therefore moved to a Special Housing Unit for protective custody.

  This example demonstrates the use of a SHU for an inmate's own safety, specifically when they are at risk from other prisoners. It highlights the protective aspect of SHU placement, ensuring an individual's well-being by separating them from potential harm.