AZ HB2459

Strip searches may only be performed by a correctional officer of the same gender as the prisoner in a designated room, or in a private area if authorized by shift commander or duty officer in an emergency.

During strip searches, correctional officers may not touch any part of the prisoner's body except when inspecting hair on the head.

Pat searches must be conducted by a correctional officer of the same gender as the prisoner, except in emergency situations when a different-gender officer may conduct a pat search with documented justification.

Emergency cross-gender pat searches require documentation in the correctional service log including officer name, badge number, prisoner name and department of corrections number, reason for search, and the name of any witnessing officer.

Emergency cross-gender pat searches must be conducted in the presence of at least one additional correctional officer when possible.