60-minute observations of inmates were routinely exceeded by staff anywhere from 1 minute to 1 hour 18 minutes. Additionally, observation records for areas where inmates known to be assaultive, potentially suicidal, mentally ill, or who have demonstrated bizarre behavior are confined were routinely exceeded by staff anywhere from 1 minute to 2 hours 38 minutes.
During the inspection of the Harris County Jail, it was determined by the inspection team that 10 of 40 inmates reviewed were held in booking longer than 48 hours. The time inmates were held over ranged from less than 1 hour up 2 days.
After reviewing staffing rosters and during the walkthrough Inspectors determined that staffing did not meet the minimum requirement of 1 officer to every 48 inmates at both 710 San Jacinto and 1200 Baker.