Chapter 5 – Adult Custody and Security Operations

51020.7 Deadly Force

• The CDCRCalifornia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation recognizes the sanctity of human life. Therefore, deadly force will only be used when it is reasonably necessary to:

  • Defend the employee or other persons from an imminent threat of death or great bodily injury.

  • Prevent an escape from custody.

  • Stop acts such as riots or arson that constitute an immediate jeopardy to institutional security and, because of the magnitude, are likely to result in escapes, great bodily injury, or the death of other persons.

  • Dispose of seriously injured or dangerous animals when no other disposition is practical. (CDCRCalifornia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation operates facilities that maintain livestock or are situated in remote areas, therefore CDCRCalifornia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation recognizes this need.)

• A firearm shall not be discharged if there is a reason to believe that persons other than the intended target will be injured.

• In facilities contracted to house CDCRCalifornia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation inmates outside of California, the use of deadly force shall only be applied in accordance with applicable law in the state where the facility is located.