Legal Definitions - SHU

Term: SHU

Definition: SHU is an abbreviation for Special Housing Unit. It is a type of prison cell or housing unit used to isolate inmates from the general population due to disciplinary or security reasons.

Example: An inmate who has been involved in a fight with another inmate may be placed in the SHU as punishment. Another example is an inmate who is deemed a threat to the safety of other inmates or staff members may also be placed in the SHU.

The examples illustrate how the SHU is used as a form of punishment or protection for both inmates and staff members. It is a way to maintain order and safety within the prison system.