Legal Definitions - solitary confinement

Solitary confinement

Solitary confinement is when a prisoner is put in a cell alone, away from other prisoners, and with limited contact with others. This is done as a form of punishment for serious and minor infractions, such as fighting or having contraband. It is also done to keep the general population safe and to keep the prisoner safe from others.

One example of solitary confinement is when a prisoner is caught fighting with another prisoner and is put in a cell alone for a certain amount of time. Another example is when a prisoner is found with contraband, such as drugs or weapons, and is put in solitary confinement as punishment.

These examples illustrate how solitary confinement is used as a form of punishment for breaking prison rules. It is meant to isolate the prisoner from others and limit their contact with the outside world. This can have negative effects on the prisoner's mental health and well-being.