MCI-CEDAR JUNCT,ON

BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT UNIT
INMATE HANDBOOK

Peter Pepe Jr.
Superintendent

September 26, 2010
Date

Revised — 9/28/10 (1)

Table of Contents
1. Introduction to the Behavior Management Unit
2. Expectations for Programming
3. Orientation Process
4. Phase System
A. Phase 1
B. Phase 2
C. Phase 3
D. Phase 4
E. Accountability Phase
F. Mental Health Watch
5. Incentive System
6. Therapeutic Modules
7. Restart Chairs
8. Counts
9. Cell Assignments
10. Movement
11. Contact Between Inmates
12. Searches
13. Substance Abuse Testing
14. Cell Sanitation
15. Cell Decorum
16. Food Slots / Wickets
17. Meals
18. Therapeutic Diets
19. Religious Meals
20. Alternate Feeding
21. Showers
22. Appropriate Dress
23. Telephone
24. Canteen
25. Reading Material
26. Haircuts
27. Property
28. Recreation
29. Religious Services
30. Library
31. Book Cart
32. Mail
33. Medical Services
34. Telephonic Interpreter Service
35. Grievances
36. Staff Sexual Misconduct with Inmates
37. Procedure for Filing a Complaint/Employee Misconduct
38. Contacting Inner Perimeter Security (IPS)
39. Laundry
40. Visiting
Attachment A: Behavior Management Unit Admission Agreement and Receipt
Attachment B: Behavior Management Unit Inmate Orientation Handbook Receipt

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1.

Introduction
The mission of the Behavior Management Unit (BMU) is to provide inmates with
treatment and structure to address behavioral problems, which may have contributed to
disciplinary sanctions and placement in the Departmental Disciplinary Unit (DDU) or a
Special Management Unit (SMU). The goal of placement in the BMU is to assist inmates
in developing alternative coping skills that result in your behavioral stability sufficient for
return safely to general population. In some cases, the goals will be preparation for exit
from the Department of Correction.
The BMU utilizes an integrated approach that involves the close collaboration of Mental
Health, classification and security staff in the development and implementation of a
comprehensive behavioral treatment plan. The program includes both behavioral and
cognitive/behavioral treatment modalities. The program includes four phases, which will
be explained in greater detail below.
When you are assigned to the BMU, all disciplinary sanctions will be suspended by the
referring institution. This will allow you to fully participate and benefit from the BMU. You
will begin the program in Phase 1 and progress through the phase system based on your
behavior and the determination by the treatment team. Your DDU or SMU time will
continue to run while you are enrolled in the BMU.
The BMU is an incentive based program meaning that as you show behavioral stability
you will earn more and more privileges. Inmates who engage in problematic behavior will
lose these privileges. In some cases, privileges you had earned in the DDU/SMU prior to
coming to the BMU may not be immediately available to you (see the phase system
below for details).

Expectations for Programming
The BMU offers 10-15 hours of weekly treatment to aid inmates in changing their
behaviors. Most inmates will be in programming for approximately 2-3 hours per day
(Monday through Friday) as well as have one individual contact with their assigned
Primary Care Clinician (PCC). The expectation is that all inmates will attend and
participate in all scheduled programming for the week. Exceptions may be made for
inmates on Accountability Phase or MHW status or such things as medical appointments,
parole appointments, etc. The groups offered are designed to help inmates learn new,
more pro-social ways of interacting with others and to develop alternative ways of
managing your behavior as opposed to self-injury or aggression. A wide range of group
programming will be offered, including: psycho-educational, communication building,
thinking for a change, substance abuse, life skills, relaxation, anger management, current
events, criminal thinking, problem solving, and stages of change.

3.

Orientation Process
Upon entering the BMU, each inmate will be required to sign an Admission Agreement
(Attachment A) acknowledging enrollment into the program and the Inmate Handbook.
Inmates will also be issued required to sign an Acknowledgment Receipt (Attachment B)
for the Inmate Handbook.

3

Each inmate will meet with the BMU Administrator, BMU Coordinator, Lieutenant, and
CPO to review the BMU Inmate Orientation Handbook. At that time, the day-to-day
operations of the program, treatment opportunities, and treatment expectations will be
explained.
The first avenue to the resolution of any problem encountered while housed in the BMU
(account, special account transfer requests, property, clothing, canteen issues, etc.)
should be addressed to the Unit Correction Program Officer and/or the Unit Officer.

Phase System
The Behavior Management Unit is designed to support inmates with behavioral problems
in achieving the highest level of functioning within a safe environment. The phase
system is designed to provide incentives for inmates who are able to remain free of selfinjury, aggression, and other problematic behavior. Incentives will be earned rapidly
when inmates engage in appropriate behavior. Consequences for engaging in selfinjurious, aggressive, or other problematic behavior will also be immediate. The
advancement from one phase to the next will be determined by the treatment team,
which includes mental health staff, security staff, and unit team staff.
A.

Phase 1
Phase 1 shall include an initial assessment, development of an individual
behavior and incentive plan, and orientation and introduction to the
program. While in Phase 1, inmates may participate in-group treatment
for up to 15 hours a week. In addition, inmates will be offered 10 hours of
unstructured, out-of-cell time per week, which may consist of recreation,
visits, and unstructured activities in the therapeutic modules. The
following basic privileges are associated with Phase 1:

Privileges of Phase 1:
1.
Reading material (leisure and homework) available in cell
2.
After 1 week without behavioral outbursts (disciplinary reports or
3.

incident reports), a radio will be allowed in cell.
1 visit per month

4.
5.

1 phone call per week
Escorted in restraints to and from all activities

Phase 2
An inmate who moves from Phase 1 to Phase 2 of the program has
demonstrated behavioral stability for 30 to 45 days. The following basic
privileges are associated with Phase 2:

Privileges of Phase 2:
1.
Reading material (leisure and homework) available in-cell
2.
Radio in cell
3.
Television in cell when not in programming
4.
2 visits per month
5.
2 phone calls per week
6.
Escorted in restraints to and from all activities

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C.

Phase 3
An inmate who moves from Phase 2 to Phase 3 of the program has
demonstrated a considerable amount of time free of behavioral outbursts
and self-injury and has shown a desire to change his behavior and use
skills he has learned in the program. The following basic privileges are
associated with Phase 3:

Privileges of Phase 3:
1.
Reading material (leisure and homework) available in-cell
2.
Radio in cell
3.
Television in cell when not in programming
4.
1 visit per week
5.
3 phone calls per week
6.
Group movie in therapeutic modules (Friday or Saturday)
7.
Reduction in restraints (based on security approval and on a caseby-case basis)
D.

Phase 4
An inmate in Phase 4 is close to discharge from the program, has
demonstrated a significant length of time free of problematic behavior, and
has demonstrated behavioral stability. On a case-by-case basis, inmates
in Phase 4 of the program are allowed to go unrestrained to and from
groups, recreation, showers, and other activities deemed appropriate. In
addition, an inmate in Phase 4 may earn the ability to have a job in the
unit.

Privileges of Phase 4:
1.
Reading material (leisure and homework) available in cell
2.
Radio in cell
3.
Television in cell when not in programming
4.
1 visit per week
5.
4 phone calls per week
6.
In phase 4 inmates will be unrestrained to and from activities
7.
Inmates may have the ability to earn a job and be allowed to work
in the unit while not in programming.
8.
Recreation is unrestrained and with other inmates in Phase 4.
E.

Accountability Phase
An inmate who engages in self-injurious behavior, aggressive or violent
behavior, or threatens to engage in such behavior shall be placed on
Mental Health Watch or on Accountability Phase. Placement on Mental
Health Watch or Accountability Phase is a clinical determination made by
the treatment team in consultation with the BMU Coordinator.
Accountability Phase will occur in the at-risk cells within the BMU.
Placement on Accountability Phase is a treatment team decision and shall
be based on the following information:
•
Documentation of problematic behavior, including incident
reports, Disciplinary-Reports, treatment notes, group notes,
etc.

Clinical interview with the inmate (during regular business
hours) or phone consultation with the BMU coordinator
(during non-business hours)
Consultation with clinical and correctional staff
Inmates on Accountability Phase are not allowed to attend group
programming and shall be assessed daily by a clinical staff member.
The daily assessment will determine clinical appropriateness to return to
Phase 1. When an inmate transitions from the Accountability Phase to
Phase 1, he will begin the phase system again and earn incentives as
outlined by the phase system.
While an inmate is on Accountability Phase, he may earn one daily point
for not engaging in disruptive behavior and one treatment point for
completing in-cell programming.

F.

Mental Health Watches (MHW's)
Mental Health Watches shall occur in the at-risk cells within the BMU.
While on a MHW, an inmate may earn one daily point for not engaging in
disruptive behavior and may earn one treatment point for completing incell programming. The decision to allow an inmate the materials
necessary for in-cell programming shall be determined after a face-to-face
interview with Mental Health staff and review with the treatment team.
Assessments of MHW shall occur daily (Monday through Saturday) with
the same frequency as those in general population.
If an inmate is on a MHW on the day incentives are ordered, the inmate
may still order if clinically appropriate. If the inmate is deemed not clinically
appropriate to order, he shall retain the incentive points until the following
week. Once the inmate is stable and in behavioral control, he may order
on the next scheduled incentive order day using available points.

5.

Incentive System
The Incentive Program is designed to allow inmates in the Behavior Management Unit
(BMU) the opportunity to earn incentive points that may be redeemed for items on a
regularly scheduled basis. Incentive points are earned based on individual performance
for expected positive and pro-social behaviors.

Purpose:
Incentives are a proven method for increasing pro-social behavior and reducing
problematic (target) behaviors. Once the target behaviors and goals are identified with
the inmate, incentives are used as a reward for achieving these identified goals. Within
the incentive program design are also life skill opportunities such as basic math and
reading, learning to save and plan, and facilitating positive social communication.

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Program Design:
Seven Daily Points may be earned per week and are based on daily performance.
Inmates who follow institutional rules and regulations as evidenced by not receiving a DReport or a Negative Incident Report earns a point for the day. A D-Report or an
Incident Report will be written as supporting documentation for an inmate who does not
earn his point for the day.
Treatment points are earned based on treatment participation and attendance without
disruptive outbursts. Inmates earn one point for each hour they attend scheduled
treatment programming, which includes both groups and individual interventions.
Treatment programming occurs Monday-Friday. Inmates will be assigned to specific
groups based on their individual needs. Inmates who do not have an excused absence,
who ask to leave group before it has ended, who do not participate or who are escorted
out due to disruptive behaviors do not earn points.
Each week, inmates' points are tallied on the Incentive Program Order Form. Inmates
are informed both verbally and in writing of all points earned and unearned. Inmates may
then order items using their points. Items are given point values, ranging from 10 points
to 40 points. Unused Incentive Points may be carried over from interval to interval, but
an inmate may not use more than 60 points in a given week.
The following is an overview of the incentive points that may be earned each week:
•

•
•

•

1 point for each hour of attendance and participation in structured
programming without a disruption
1 point for each hour of attendance and participation in
unstructured programming without a disruption
10 bonus points for attending and participating in all groups on

treatment plan for 1 week
1 point for each day without receiving any disciplinary reports

The incentive menu is as follows:

Incentives
Additional non-contact visit (1 hour)
Additional phone call (30 minutes)
Additional haircut
One hour of additional recreation
One hour of additional library time
Colored pencils for 24 hours in-cell
New addition to Library book for 7 days
Additional state issued hygiene items
Picture taken to send to family/friends
Contact visit with family
Four hours of television time in cell
Additional non-contact visit (1 hour)
Additional phone call (30 minutes)
One hour of additional recreation
One hour of additional library time
Colored pencils for 24 hours in-cell
New addition to Library book for 7 days

Phase 1
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x

Phase 2
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x

x
x
x
x
x
x
x

x
x
x
x
x
x
x

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Phase 3 Phase 4 Points
x
x
35
x
x
25
x
x
25
x
x
20
x
30
x
x
10
x
x
15
x
x
15
x
x
25
x
40
x
x
15
x
x
35
x
x
25
x
x
20
x
x
30
x
x
10
x
x
15

Picture taken to send to family/friends
Four hours of television time in cell
One pad of paper
Ten stamped envelopes
One week off of Phase 1 (maximum of two
weeks at 40 points for each week)
Four hours of television time in therapeutic
modules
One hour of recreation time in large
recreation yard with basketball
Bring walkman to yard during recreation
Bring walkman to unstructured activities
Contact visit with family/friends
Photo taken with family/friends
6.

x
x
x
x

x
x
x
x

x
x
x
x

x
x
x
x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x
x

x
x
x
x

x

25
15
15
20
40
20
15

5
5
40

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Therapeutic Modules
All structured and unstructured programming will take place in the Therapeutic Modules
during Phase I. During Phases 2, 3 and 4 structured and unstructured programming may
take place in the therapeutic modules.

7.

Restart Chairs Restart chairs are an earned privilege that is only

offered as follows:
Phase 1: Not eligible.
Phase 2, 3, and 4: Eligible if program and treatment compliant and if demonstrating
consistent, positive behaviors as evidenced by remaining free of D-reports, negative
incident reports and off of Accountability Status.

8.

Counts
Counts are held seven times per day. It will be the responsibility of each inmate to stand
by the end of his bed clearly visible to the officers standing at the cell door. Making
necessary movements or attempting to distract the counting officer by conversation shall
result in disciplinary action. When an emergency count is necessary, inmates shall be
returned to their cells and will remain there until the count is verified. During all counts,
cell lights must be turned on. Infractions of the count procedures will be considered very
serious and dealt with accordingly.
Inmates are required to stand for the following counts each day: 7:00AM, 11:15AM,
4:20PM, and 10:00PM.

Cell Assignments
The BMU Administrator/designee shall have the authority to move inmates throughout the
BMU as deemed necessary.
Any refusal by an inmate to move from one cell to another shall result in disciplinary action.

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10.

Movement

A.

All inmate movement within and outside of the BMU will be in full restraints
as follows:
(1.)
(2.)
(3.)

B.

All movement within the BMU will be by a hands-on escort by one-correction
officer

C.

All movement outside of the BMU will be by a hands-on escort by two
correction officers

D.
11.

12.

hand cuffs, behind the back;
waist chain w/cuffs, for outside of the unit; and
leg restraints

Only ONE inmate may be out of his cell, on a tier, at any given time.

Contact Between Inmates
A.

Inmates are permitted to have contact (normal conversation) with other
inmates in their assignment area.

B.

Inmates will not be permitted to stop on the tier to talk to inmates in their
cells. Loitering is not permitted.

C.

No passing is allowed between inmates.

D.

There will be no passing between tiers.

E.

Inmates will not be permitted to yell from the yard to inmates inside the
building or to inmates on other tiers.

Searches

Security staff shall conduct regular searches of cells and personal property at irregular
intervals as assigned by the Unit Lieutenant or the Unit Sergeant(s).
A.

Strip Searches - Inmates shall be strip-searched any time they come out
of their cell.
Inmates are required to undergo strip searches prior to going to or leaving
the following areas:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

B.

P r ogram/C oun seling Areas
Visiting room
BMU Treatmen t Rooms and/or HS U
Recreation Yard
Satellite Law Library Area
Cell Searches

Personal Searches / Pat Search - Inmates are required to submit to a
personal search at any and all other times.

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C.

13.

Cell Searches - All cells shall be searched at any time, but at a minimum
of at least once a week.
1.

During the cell search, the inmate shall be detained in another
area. The inmate shall be subject to being strip searched prior to
being removed from his cell.

2.

The cell shall be left in as near to its original appearance as
possible at the completion of the search.

Substance Abuse Testing

All inmates are required to submit to substance abuse testing as determined by the
Superintendent and in accordance with 103 DOC 525: Inmate Substance Abuse Monitoring
and Testing.
14.

Cell Sanitation

Inmates shall keep their cells clean at all times. Cell cleaning will be conducted on Sunday
during the 3-11 shift. The BMU Officers will issue cell-cleaning supplies. and trash bags will
be emptied during these periods.

15.

Cell Decorum Violations of cell decorum shall result in

disciplinary action.
A.

Windows will not be covered or blocked in any manner.

B.

Vents will not be covered or blocked in any manner.

C.

Floor coverings (i.e. rugs) are not allowed.
Legal work in the cell shall be limited to 1 cubic foot. Books/magazines shall
be limited to 10 as defined in 103 CMR 403, Inmate Property Policy. Legal
work in excess of 1 cubic foot shall be stored in the Property Department and
will be accessible by making arrangements via the BMU Sergeant.
Books/Magazines in excess of 10 shall be considered contraband and
subject to disposal according to 103 CMR 403, Property Policy.

E.

Pictures — Inmates shall keep all personal pictures within the confines of the
picture square (the 2' x 3' area outlined above the desk). Any pictures
displayed outside of the square-shall be considered contraband and removed
accordingly. Family photographs, religious pictures, and an institutionapproved calendar may be affixed within the square.
The following items are not permitted to be displayed:
1.
2.

Anything that is prohibited by 103 CMR 481, Inmate Mail
Policy;
Semi-nude or scantily clad and/or sexually suggestive
material;
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3.
4.
5.

16.

Material that can be considered offensive or otherwise
discriminatory in the workplace;
Material that is deemed to be divisive between groups or
individuals;
Material that supports or promotes violation of 103 CMR 30,
Disciplinary Proceedings.

F.

Graffiti, defacing, or damaging any cell surface or furnishing will result in
disciplinary action.

G.

All property approved for retention shall be neatly stored in the cell.

Food Slots/Wickets

Upper and lower food slots/wickets shall be closed except when inmates are
receiving food or medication, using the inmate telephone, or for the
application or removal of restraints.
B.

17.

Disciplinary action shall result when inmates prevent staff from immediately
closing food slot/wickets.

Meals

All inmates shall receive the same meals as those served to the general population
including any necessary medical diets or religious diets.
A.

All inmates will be fed in their cells.

B.

Meals shall be delivered by BMU Officers in food trays according to the
following approximate schedule:
Breakfast
Lunch
Supper

7:00 am - 7:15 am
11:30 am - 11:45 am
4:30 pm - 4:45 pm

Note: Refused or unwanted meals shall not be passed to another inmate.
C.

18.

All food items must be consumed or returned 20 minutes after the delivery
of each meal. Inmates are to return all trays, milk and/or juice containers,
and eating utensils. Unit Officers will collect these articles. Refusal to return
or throwing of food, food containers, utensils, drink containers, or liquids shall
result in the inmate being placed on Alternate Feeding Status as well as
disciplinary action.

Therapeutic Diets

Inmates on therapeutic diets shall receive meals consistent with their required diet while on
Alternate Feeding Status. Any complaints regarding therapeutic meals shall be brought to
the attention of the BMU 01C. In accordance with 103 CMR 761, Access to Therapeutic
Diets and Medical Care, informal complaints should be communicated to the Food Service
Director, and all formal complaints should be directed to the Superintendent.

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19.

Religious Meals
Inmates whose religions place restrictions on their diets shall be permitted access to a
special diet. Requests for such diets must be made pursuant to 103 CMR 471, Religious
Programs and Services.

20.

Alternate Feeding
Any inmate who becomes disruptive or assaultive by either refusing to turn in food trays;
throwing food, food trays, or containers; refusing to allow the food slot to be secured during
feeding; or by utilizing food or drink containers to assault staff with food or any substances
shall be placed on Alternate Feeding Status as a result of such actions.

A.

B.

Alternate Feeding Procedure
1.

Inmate's cell light will be turned on.

2.

Inmate is asked if he is willing to comply with Alternate Feeding
procedures.

3.

If inmate is willing to comply, he will be instructed to lie on his bed,
and staff will pass the food tray through the bottom wicket.

4.

Upon staff securing the wicket, the inmate will be able to retrieve his
food.

5.

Upon completion of eating, staff will collect all utensils,
cups/containers, and food trays in the same manner it was given.

6.

If the inmate refuses to comply with the Alternate Feeding
procedures, it will constitute a refusal to accept the meal.

Removal from Alternate Feeding Status
1.

An inmate on Alternate Feeding Status will be asked after each meal
if he will comply with the rules and regulations. At that time, the BMU
Administrator/Designee will assess the necessity for continued
Alternate Feeding Status.
In the event the BMU Administrator/Designee determines that an
inmate may be removed from Alternate Feeding Status, he/she shall
submit the appropriate forms to the Superintendent.

3.

The Superintendent shall review the request for removal of the
inmate from Alternate Feeding Status and decide to approve or deny
it. In the event of a denial, Alternate Feeding will continue for another
period of up to seven days.

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21.

Showers
Inmates will be allowed to shave with an electric razor and shower at least three times per
week. Shower items will be maintained in an individual storage container located outside
of the cell. Scrubs must be worn to and from the shower. Showers will not exceed 15
minutes.

ELECTRIC RAZORS WILL BE USED FOR FACIAL HAIR ONLY

22.

A.

All inmates in the BMU will be on electric razor status.

B.

The security staff will issue the electric razor during the regularly
scheduled shower period.

C.

Inmates shall be under direct and constant observation by security staff
while shaving inside the shower.

D.

Upon completion of shaving, the electric razor shall be retrieved from the
inmate and inspected by security staff.

E.

Any misuse or destruction of the electric razor shall be documented in an
Incident Report, and a Disciplinary Report will be issued if there are no
mitigating circumstances.

F.

Any inmate who breaks or tampers with an electric razor will be placed on
no razor status and will need to put in a slip to see the barber in order to
receive a shave.

Appropriate Dress
Inmates must remain in assigned scrubs while attending groups, individual sessions or
other program activities. Inmates may wear t-shirts to recreation or other leisure time
activities.

23.

Telephone

Phase 1: Inmates shall be allowed to use the telephone for one 30-minute personal call
per week. Calls to the attorney of record in connection with prospective or pending
litigation are not limited in amount or duration. The treatment team may approve
emergency calls. All telephone calls shall be documented.
Phase 2: Two 30-minute personal phone calls per week
Phase 3: Three 30-minute personal phone calls per week
Phase 4: Four 30-minute personal phone calls per week
The amount of personal phone calls listed above are basic privileges assigned to each
phase. Inmates who have earned incentive points may "purchase" additional personal
phone calls each week over and above the basic privileges assigned to each phase.

24.

Canteen

A.

Canteen privileges for BMU inmates shall be determined by the individual
inmate's progress through the incentive system. Canteen privileges are not
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connected with any specific phase, but the ability to purchase canteen items
is allowed if the inmate has the funds to allow the purchase of canteen items,
earns enough incentive points, and decides to use these points to purchase
canteen items.
B.

Canteen privileges shall be suspended for any inmate who is on
Accountability Phase or Mental Health Watch (if clinically indicated).

C.

Canteen purchases shall be restricted to items and quantities approved for
purchase by BMU inmates. Attempts to order unapproved items or items
in excess of the specified quantity shall result in the entire canteen
order being voided. Inmates shall be allowed to purchase thermal
undergarments, Walkman radios, and sneakers through the DOC's approved
vendor in accordance with 103 CMR 403, Inmate Property Policy.
1.

25.

Appliance/Sneaker/Thermal Order Forms — may be obtained via the
BMU CPO. The respective order form and a purchase slip must be
completed and returned to the CPO for processing.

D.

Any misuse of canteen articles purchased (i.e., creating a health hazard,
assaulting with, excessive property, etc.) may result in the loss of this
privilege.

E.

Canteen orders are submitted on Wednesday evening. Canteen pick up
and delivery will be done on Tuesday, (except during weeks with a
holiday).

Reading Material
Reading materials are allowed in cell for Phases 1-4. Inmates on Accountability Phase
and Mental Health Watch will be provided (if clinically appropriate) in-cell programming to
complete while on that status.
As part of the incentive system, inmates may earn the ability to read a new release book
(see the incentive menu for details).

26.

Haircuts
Inmates may request a haircut by submitting a haircut request form to the Unit CPO or
security staff.
All inmates will be charged the fee of $1.50 per haircut. In the case of an indigent inmate,
the fee will be waived (however there is a 30-day time frame for inmates to pay barbing
debts). Indigent inmates must utilize the standard haircut request form and-note their --status on the form.
A.

Haircuts will normally be scheduled on Sundays beginning at 1:30 p.m. or
whenever possible.

B.

Inmates are permitted only one haircut every 60 days.

C.

Inmate will remain in full restraints while their hair is being cut.
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Authorized BMU property:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)
11)
12)
13)
14)
15)
16)
17)

Three sets of maroon scrubs
One pair of sneakers (if already owned)
Three pairs of socks
Three additional set of underwear
One set of sheets
One pillow case
One pillow
One blanket
Two towels
One washcloth
One laundry bag
One roll of toilet paper
One bar of soap
One plastic comb
One toothbrush
One tube of toothpaste
One deodorant

The following state-issue items will be provided to inmates for the winter months:
1 )
2 )
3 )

A.

c o a t
hat (to be worn outdoors only)
thermals (will be provided to inmates who are BOTH indigent and have a
medical order
Total Property
The total quantity of personal property authorized to be retained by BMU
inmates shall not exceed the following limits. All property not designated as

contraband and not authorized for inmate retention in the BMU shall be
inventoried and processed as Long Term Storage.

1) 1 radio (Walkman only)
2) 4 AAA batteries (for Walkman only)
3) 2 sets of ear buds
4) 3 sets of scrubs
5) 7 pairs of underwear (white only)
6) 7 T-shirts white (no emblems)
7) 1 sweatshirt
8) 1 pair of sweatpants
9) 1 pair of shorts
10)
1 thermals
11)
7 pairs of socks white
12)
1 pair of state-issued sneakers
13) 1 pair of personal sneakers
14) 1 pair of shower shoes
15) 2 pairs of glasses (prescription only)
16)
1 state coat (issued) for recreation (not allowed in cell)
15

17)
18)
19)
20)
21)
22)
23)
24)
25)
26)
27)
28)
29)

28.

1 l au n d ry b a g
1 wash cloth
2 towels
1 cubic ft. personal material
1 cubic ft. legal material
1 flex pen
1 pad of paper
10 envelopes
10 soft cover books, magazines
Up to ten (10) religious books
Headphone extension
Canteen toiletries: soap, toothbrush and toothpaste
Television (state-issued)

Recreation
All inmates (unless on Accountability Phase or MHW) will be offered a minimum of five
hours of recreation a week. Inmates have the ability to "purchase" additional recreation
time with their earned points.

29.

A.

All inmates shall be permitted outdoor exercise one hour per day, five days
per week, unless security or safety conditions dictate otherwise. Cancelled
exercise periods will not be rescheduled.

B.

Dress code for recreation is restricted to scrubs. A coat and hat will be
allowed during the winter months.

C.

No other items (i.e. food, drinks, Walkman radio, etc.) may be brought to
the yard.

Religious Services
A.

Inmates shall have access to MCI-Cedar Junction's Chaplains including

representatives of the Catholic, Protestant, Jewish and Muslim faiths.
B.

30.

Inmates may request to see MCI-Cedar Junction Chaplains for
counseling.

Library
Inmates who wish to use to Satellite Law Library must obtain a "Request to Use Satellite
Law Library" form from security staff.

A.

Access to Satellite Law Library Book Cart
1.

Upon completing the Request Form, the inmate will return it to
security staff or the BMU CPO.

2.

Library requests will not be honored if the inmate is already
scheduled for a time slot.

3.

All inmates shall be required to perform proper strip searches to

27.

Property
16

and from the Satellite law library area.
4.

B.

C.

No books will be removed from the BMU Satellite Law Library
Book Cart by inmates or staff.

Access to Materials from the Main Law Library
1.

If an inmate needs access to legal research material in the Main
Law Library, that is not available on the Satellite Law Library Book
Cart. they must obtain a "Request for Access to Materials from the
Main Law Library" form (103 DOC 478 Attachment LM and
Attachment C). Those request forms will be made available from
security staff or the BMU CPO.

2.

The Librarian will determine whether or not the material or an
equivalent is available on the Satellite Law Library Book Cart. If
the material is not available on the Satellite Law Library Book Cart
but is available in the Main Law Library, the Librarian will then
either make copies of the requested material and provide them for
the inmate or place the requested material on the Satellite Law
Library Book Cart during the time the inmate is scheduled to use it.
After the inmate has used the material, it will be returned to the
Main Library.

Legal Stationery Supplies
Inmates can access legal supplies through canteen. Inmates deemed
indigent will be issued legal supplies once weekly on Sunday's.

D.

Scheduling of Law Library
Two-hour slots are available according to the following schedule:
6:00 AM to 10:00 PM — Saturday through Sunday.
*Access to the Satellite Law Library Book Cart will not be accepted as an

excuse to miss structured programming.
E.

Violations
1.

Any violation in the use of the Satellite Law Library Area (i.e.
destruction of books, typewriter, and any other property) in the
Satellite Law Library area shall constitute disciplinary action which
could mean the loss of library privileges pursuant to 103 CMR 430,
Disciplinary Proceedings policy.

2.

Inmates denied access pursuant to 103 CMR 430, Disciplinary
Procedures, may be provided with reasonable amount of legal
materials in the form of photocopies. All copies material is subject
to MCI-Cedar Junction Procedure for 103 CMR 478, Library
Services.

31.

32.

Book Cart
A.

Once a week, recreational staff will be available to make a round with the
general library book cart.

B.

Each inmate shall have the opportunity to draw two books from the cart on
a weekly basis.

C.

Inmates who are disruptive during this process will not be afforded the
opportunity to draw books.

Mail
BMU inmates shall be provided the same opportunities as inmates in the general
population. All US mail generated by BMU inmates shall be processed in accordance
with 103 CMR 481, Inmate Mail, and the MCI CJ Procedure to 103 CMR 481.

A.

All mail will be picked up between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Inmates are required to show the officer the envelope prior to placing it in
the mail box.

C.

Inmates must put their name and commitment number in the return
address.
Inmates are required to place their mail into the slot on the locked
mailbox.
Mail being sent as registered, certified, or return receipt requested shall
be submitted with a purchase slip to the Unit CPO for processing.

F.

Indigent mail shall be processed in accordance with MCI-Cedar Junction
Procedure for 103 CMR 481:Inmate Mail Procedures.

G.

Stamps shall be purchased through the Canteen

H.

Inmate Correspondence
1.

Inmates are not allowed to correspond with other inmates.

2.

All correspondence between inmates in any correctional or penal
institution in the Commonwealth is prohibited. Upon written
request to the Superintendent, an inmate may receive permission
to correspond with an inmate confined in any other correctional or
penal institution in the Commonwealth, providing the other inmate
is either a member of the immediate family, or is a party in a legal
action in which both inmates are parties representing themselves.
The Superintendent may approve such correspondence in other
exceptional circumstances, with particular regard to the nature of
the relationship between the two inmates and the security level of
the institution. The following additional limitations apply.
a.

The Superintendent at both the sending and receiving

19

institutions must approve the correspondence.
b.

I.

33.

Such incoming or outgoing correspondence at institutions
of all security levels may, for reasons of safety or security,
be inspected and read by staff at either the sending or
receiving institution pursuant to the authorization of the
Commissioner or institution Superintendent in accordance
with the applicable guidelines and requirements set forth in
103 CMR 481.12, 481.14 and 481.15.

Mail Delivery
1.

Legal mail shall be opened by staff in front of the inmate. Staff shall
then inspect its content for anything not authorized.

2.

All inmates must sign the log when receiving registered or express
mail. There is a designated log for this purpose.

Medical Services
A.

A member of the medical staff shall conduct a sick call tour of the BMU
daily.

B.

All medication prescribed by a physician shall be dispensed by a member
of the medical staff at the prescribed times at the inmate's cell. An officer
will accompany the medical staff person while the medication is being
administered.

C.

Inmates housed in the BMU will be scheduled to see the doctor during
designated scheduled hours with the exception of emergencies. The
Examination Room provided within the BMU shall be used whenever
possible.

D.

34.

All inmates shall be transported to and from the HSU in full restraints (i.e.
handcuffs, leg irons and waist chains). Upon entering the BMU, the
inmates will be placed in the holding area until seen.

Telephonic Interpreter Service
An over-the-phone interpretation service can be implemented at this institution. This service
can provide translation of 140 different languages to any non-English speaking inmate. It
can be implemented by a staff member as a means of communication assistance in the
following areas when applicable:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

IPS
Booking/Admissions
HSU
Classification Boards
Disciplinary Hearings

A claim by an inmate that he does not speak and/or understand English can be made as

20

follows:
1.

35.

Classification Boards - submit a written request for an interpreter to the BMU
Administrator or CPO 48 hours prior to the classification board.

2

Disciplinary Hearings - submit a written request for an interpreter to the
institution Disciplinary Officer or the BMU CPO 48 hours prior to the date
scheduled for the hearing.

3.

Visits to the HSU, IPS, or Booking/Admissions - be oral and directed to the
appropriate person in these areas.

Grievances
Inmates are encouraged to pursue informal resolution of complaints. An inmate must first
complete an Inmate to Staff request form prior to submitting a formal grievance (see your
CPO or security staff for this form). All inmates housed in the BMU shall have the same
privileges as all other inmates to file grievances pursuant to 103 CMR 491:Inmate

Grievances.
36.

Staff Sexual Misconduct with Inmates
As an inmate within the Massachusetts Department of Correction any sexual contact with
any person is expressly prohibited and that all such incidents should be immediately
reported. Any allegation or incident of sexual contact will be taken seriously and
investigated fully. Inmates have the right to serve their sentence without fear of being
sexually exploited. A telephone "hotline" has been set up through the inmate telephone
system that will allow inmates to report any contact of a sexual nature with other inmates,
staff, volunteers or outside contractors.
This number, 508 668 5498, can be universally accessed by all inmates. You do not need
to place this number on your PIN list. Also "any allegation that you make that is found to be
-

-

false or made which in good faith, you could not have believed to be true will result in

disciplinary action".

Note: Also, inmates can communicate with key staff by putting their issues and
concerns in writing and forwarding it to the appropriate person or when key staff make
rounds in the unit.

37.

Procedures for Filing a Complaint/Employee Misconduct
A telephone hotline has been set up through the inmate telephone system that will allow

inmates to report employee misconduct. This number is (508) 422 3425 and can be
universally accessed by all inmates.
-

38.

Contacting Inner Perimeter Security (IPS)
A telephone hotline has been set up through the inmate telephone system that will allow
inmates to contact the IPS Unit. The number is 006138 and can be universally accessed
by all inmates.

21

39.

Laundry
BMU inmates will be allowed to exchange three sets of dirty scrubs for three sets of clean
"scrubs". All clothing/linens will be washed and dried weekly (Tuesdays) by the inmate
Laundry Department. Laundry will be picked up at approximately 8:30 a.m. Damage to
laundry bag, tie or tag by any BMU inmate shall result in a disciplinary report and may
result in restitution to MCI Cedar Junction.

40.

Visiting
Phase 1: One non-contact visit per month.
Phase 2: Two non-contact visits per month.
Phase 3: One non-contact visit per week.
Phase 4: One non-contact visit per week.
Inmates may "purchase" additional non-contact visits using earned points. Only Phase 4
inmates will have access to earn a contact visit.
A.

Duration of Visits - visits will be one hour in duration.

B.

Scheduling of Visits - visits must be scheduled in advance so they do not
conflict with unit operation and/or therapeutic programming. The intended
visitor is responsible to contact the BMU Monday through Friday between
the hours of 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. to schedule the visit. Visits must be
scheduled at least 24 hours in advance and not more than ten days in
advance.

C.

Cancellation of Visits - if the visitor fails to arrive within twenty minutes
after the visiting period was to begin, the visit will be canceled. There will
be no provision for granting a makeup period, the inmate's visiting period
will be forfeited.

D.

Attorney Access - visits by attorneys, paralegals, law students, etc., shall
be in accordance with 103 CMR 486, Attorney Access at Massachusetts
Correctional Institution. Attorney visits are contact.

E.

inmates shall remain in the designated visiting area until all visitors have
left. Inmates shall then enter a designated area to be strip-searched
following their visit.
In the event of an emergency situation or other occurrence/situation, the
Superintendent may suspend or modify these procedures, as he/she
deems appropriate.

F.

22

Admission Agreement
_____________________ commitment # __________acknowledge my enrollment in the
Secure Treatment Program.

1.

I understand that the Behavior Management Unit is designed to assist me in developing
positive coping skills necessary for my return into general population. I understand that I
am expected to actively participate throughout program and meet all of the requirements
of my individual behavioral/treatment plan.

2.

I understand the Behavior Management Unit has four main phases:
1.

Ph ase 1 (minimum o f 4 5 d ay s )

2.

Phase 2 (minimum of six months)

3.

Phase 3 (minimum of six months)

4.

Phase 4 (minimum of 30 days. Case to be reviewed by the Behavior

Management Unit Review Committee. After review of the case this committee will make
housing recommendations to the Deputy Commissioner of Prisons).

3.

I understand that progression through the phases and access to incentives is determined
by the treatment team and is contingent upon my behavior, overall adjustment, and
compliance with my individual behavioral/treatment plan.

4.

I understand I will be evaluated regularly by the treatment team for individual progress
towards treatment goals and compliance with my individual behavioral/treatment plan.

5.

I understand that I am expected to actively participate in all aspects of the
program — including group activities and in-cell assignments.

6.

I understand that it is my responsibility to incorporate positive coping skills to
proactively manage potential conflicts and other high-risk situations before they
escalate into destructive behavior.

7.

I understand that completion of the Behavior Management Unit is contingent upon my
developing a comprehensive relapse prevention plan.

8.

The above items have been explained to me and I understand what is my
responsibility. I understand that failure to meet my responsibilities may result in failure to
move through the phases.

23

BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT UNIT

Inmate Signature

Date

(Attachment A)
Behavior Management Unit Staff Signature /Date

INMATE HANDBOOK RECEIPT FORM

(Attachment B)

________________________commitment #___________ acknowledge that on this date, I have
been issued a one (1) copy of the Behavior Management Unit Program Inmate Orientation
Handbook. Also, two (2) pieces of paper, two (2) envelopes, and a pen. I understand that it is
my responsibility to read this booklet. Questions may be referred to my Correction Program
Officer for clarification.

Inmate Signature:_________________Date: ______

Staff Witness: __________________Date:

I have personally issued the above Orientation Guide, but the inmate has refused to sign for it.
Staff Signature: ____________________________________ Date: ______________________