Salisbury, MD asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Maryland

Q: If an inmate is requesting the first name and ID # of a CO to file a complaint, do the agency have to provide it?

Legally do we have to provide this information?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: When an inmate requests the first name and ID number of a correctional officer to file a complaint, the agency's obligation to provide this information varies by jurisdiction and specific regulations. Generally, privacy laws and policies protect the personal information of employees, including their names and ID numbers.

You may need to consult your agency’s internal policies or legal department to determine the proper procedure. Often, inmates can file complaints without knowing the personal details of the staff involved. The agency can investigate the complaint internally using the information provided by the inmate.

It's crucial to balance transparency with the need to protect employee privacy. Providing too much information could potentially compromise the safety and security of the officers. Always ensure that any action taken complies with your agency's guidelines and legal requirements.

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