New prisoner restraints allow for better inmate control
By BARRY HALVORSON news@leader-news.com

With several high profile criminal trials scheduled for the coming year, District Court Judge Randy Clapp received permission from the Wharton County Commissioners to purchase a new, concealed prisoner restraint system out of the courthouse security fund.

The equipment, produced by Stinger Systems under the brand name "The Band-It" is an electronic system that can be strapped to an arm and leg and deliver a taser-like shock to the wearer. Clapp said the system is priced at $875.

Clapp said the system would be used instead of the traditional hand-cuffs and leg shackles used to transport prisoners to the courthouse.

"In certain cases, such as a jury trial, appellate courts up to the U.S. Supreme Court have ruled that if a jury sees a defendant in traditional restraints it is reversible error. In most cases, the defendant is released from restraints in the courtroom because you can have enough (law enforcement) people around them to prevent a problem."

Clapp explained local law enforcement follows a similar procedure in the courtroom, but that isn't the only possible point of contact.

"We don't have a separate entrance or a holding cell in the courthouse," the judge said. "So there is the potential that jurors will see the person being brought in to the courthouse in restraints."

The judge said the technology could be compared to a shock collar and is similar to previous restraints that wrapped around the torso of a person. The new technology allows it to be placed on an arm or leg and covered by clothing with less potential for injury.

He said the equipment permits the person with the control to issue a warning tone to give an agitated person a chance to calm.

"And if they didn't, they are in for an eight second ride," he said. "The shock lasts the same length as a bull-ride. The impact is enough to give law enforcement officers a chance to gain control of the situation."