Extra measures of protection

WHEN DID THE PROGRAM START?

The state began identifying certain vulnerable inmates as needing special protective housing in the late 1990s, and created Sensitive Needs Yards for them starting in early 2002. More than 40 of the yards are now scattered within 20 of California’s 34 prisons.

WHAT ARE SENSITIVE NEEDS YARDS?

They are cellblocks, common areas and outdoor recreation yards set aside for male inmates who would likely be harmed if they were in the general population with other prisoners. These prisoners include sex offenders; inmates with youthful appearances; inmates who have left prison gangs; have been assaulted; have enemies in the general prison population; have drug or gambling debts; or are former law enforcement or correctional officers.

HOW MANY PRISONERS DO THEY HOLD?

The number of inmates labeled as sensitive needs peaked in 2015 at about 45,600, which was more than one-third of California’s entire prison population and more than 40 percent of male inmates. Sex offenders accounted for 27 percent of the protective custody population. With recent changes, it has dropped to about 33,000 inmates, about one-quarter of the entire prison population.

HOW ARE THEY PART OF THE PROBLEM?

The homicide rate in Sensitive Needs Yards has been two to three times the rate in the general population yards since 2011. Prison officials have identified about 100 gangs within Sensitive Needs Yards, bringing associated problems including drug smuggling. WHAT’S NEXT? Corrections officials are gradually integrating sick, mentally ill and lowersecurity protective custody inmates into the general prison population.