SECTION 377:10-13-90. Use of force

(a)   Title 10A O.S., § 2-7-604, prohibits the use of physical force in Regimented Juvenile Training facilities operated by or contracted with OJA except:

(1)   when necessary for self-protection;

(2)   to separate juveniles who are fighting;

(3)   to restrain juveniles who have escaped or are in the process of escaping; and

(4)   to restrain juveniles who are in danger of harming themselves or others.

(b)   In every case, the amount of force used shall be the least amount necessary.

(c)   Medical attention shall be provided immediately upon the juvenile's release from restraint even if there is no visible evidence or complaint of injury. If necessary, medical attention may be provided by a licensed physician, licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, physician's assistant, or emergency medical technician.

Prior to the end of the shift in which the incident took place, any staff member who applies physical force shall submit a written report about the incident to the facility director.

(d)   The facility shall give written guidelines to staff on the use of physical force, further stating that, in accordance with staff disciplinary procedures, loss of employment may result if unauthorized use of physical force is proven.

(e)   Physical force may never be used as punishment or retaliation.

(f)   Facility staff shall not permit any person to use physical force contrary to policy.

(g)   Staff members shall not provoke physical confrontation by taunting, harassing, or otherwise manipulating a resident into behavior which would justify physical force.

(h)   The use of chemical agents to control juveniles is prohibited.

[Source: Added at 15 Ok Reg 771, eff 10-2-97 (emergency); Added at 15 Ok Reg 2682, eff 7-1-98; Amended at 28 Ok Reg 1993, eff 7-15-11]