What should a Correctional Officer do if they encounter illegal goods during a search?

The appropriate course of action for a Correctional Officer who encounters illegal goods during a search is to document the discovery and report it. This is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, proper documentation ensures that there is a clear, official record of the incident, including details about what was found, the location of the discovery, and the circumstances surrounding it. This information is vital for any subsequent investigations or legal proceedings.

Reporting the incident to a supervisor or using the proper chain of command is also essential, as it allows for the appropriate protocols to be followed in handling the illegal goods. This procedure not only upholds the integrity of the correctional system but also ensures that the officer remains compliant with policies and legal standards.

Additionally, securing the items without personal ownership is important, as officers are not permitted to keep or use these items for personal gain. Ignoring the items or destroying them could result in a violation of policies and could hinder investigations, while confiscating items for personal use would be a serious breach of ethics and could lead to disciplinary action.