53.1-127 - Who may enter interior of local correctional facilities; searches of those entering. - Virginia Statutes

§ 53.1-127. Who may enter interior of local correctional facilities; searchesof those entering.

A. Members of the local governing bodies which participate in the funding ofa local correctional facility may go into the interior of that facility.Agents of the Board may go into the interior of any local correctionalfacility. In addition, Department of Corrections staff and state and localhealth department staff shall, in the performance of their duties, haveaccess to the interior of any local correctional facility subject to thestandards promulgated pursuant to § 53.1-68 A and B. Attorneys shall bepermitted in the interior of a local correctional facility to confer withprisoners who are their clients and with prisoners who are witnesses in casesin which they are involved. Except for the announced or unannouncedinspections authorized pursuant to § 53.1-68 A and B, the sheriff, jailadministrator or other person in charge of the facility shall prescribe thetime and conditions under which attorneys and other persons may enter thelocal correctional facility for which he is responsible.

B. Any person seeking to enter the interior of any local correctionalfacility shall be subject to a search of his person and effects. Such searchshall be performed in a manner reasonable under the circumstances and may bea condition precedent to entering a local correctional facility.

(1982, c. 636; 1995, c. 797.)