What is the first step a new Lieutenant should take when addressing yard cleanliness and staff-inmate tension?

The first step a new Lieutenant should take when addressing yard cleanliness and staff-inmate tension is to meet with the Facility Captain. This action is crucial because the Facility Captain typically has a comprehensive understanding of the operations, policies, and issues within the facility. Engaging with the Captain will allow the Lieutenant to gain insight into the current situation regarding yard conditions and staff-inmate dynamics, as well as the facility's overall environment. This meeting can provide vital information on existing protocols, ongoing challenges, and resources available to implement improvements.

Moreover, the Facility Captain may have strategies in place or may have received feedback from other staff regarding the issues. This strategic approach ensures that the Lieutenant is well-informed and can develop an effective plan of action based on the Captain's expertise and knowledge of the facility's practices. Thus, having this foundational meeting sets the tone for collaborative problem-solving and demonstrates to both staff and inmates that leadership is actively working to improve conditions in a structured manner.