Polk County Jail

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Interview with Timmy and Michael

JM: Did you find it difficult to get along with other inmates? Please give examples to explain why you did or didn't.
Timmy: It is not difficult to get along with other inmates. There is some degree of self segregation that takes place but it is not enforced as any sort of "Jail Code." When you are initially housed at the annex facility inmate relations are more strained than in the Frostproof facility due to overcrowding. At the annex it is important to attempt to make contact with people of your own race first. I'm not saying to avoid contact with other races but maintain your sovereignty. You will be forced to sleep in the day room when you first arrive. There are no toilets in the dayroom so you will need to make friends within one of the 8 rooms right away. As soon as you get there place your bed roll on a bunk in the day room and visually survey the lower rooms. Look for one that is occupied by predominantly your race and age group. Walk upstairs and do the same for the upper rooms. Once you find one that seems the closest match go to that room and ask if they have any open bunks. The answer will ALWAYS be NO. Then ask if they have any room on the floor. Sleeping on the floor in a room is better than a bunk in the day room. If they tell you No and don't offer to help you find a spot in another room then go to another room and try again. You do not have to stick to your race. If you see a room that has older black men and you are a white man you can go ask them if they have room and may get good results. If you're not a Young black male do not attempt to move in with other young black males. Mexicans are pretty cool too. They will accept whites but you will be expected to maintain a high standard of personal hygiene as well as cleanliness in the room. Toilet use protocol is different in every room. Watch how the other guys do it and do as they do. Some rooms vacate the room when someone is using the toilet others do not.
Michael: didnt interact much with others.

JM: What types of things did you have to do to avoid problems or fights with other inmates?
Timmy: #1) No gambling – this leads to big problems
#2) Do not attempt to get or use contraband including, all drugs and tobacco. This will only lead to problems for you.
#3) Keep to your self. Do not be Mr. Social
#4) If you have money and order canteen share with the people in your room
Michael: never was an issue

JM: Were you able to choose an inmate as your cellmate if you knew one? How often would your cellmate(s) change?
Timmy: Yes, In Polk you can always choose your bunk assignment.
Michael: no