TN 14 (01-24)

SI 00530.900 What Security Measures Should Field Offices Take When Interviewing an Individual Identified as a Fugitive or a Parole or Probation Violator?

NOTE: Refer to the chart for the action required.

Court Case

Action

Martinez Settlement

On April 1, 2009, SSA changed its policy of not paying fleeing felons. Follow the instructions below only for felony warrants with offense codes 4901, 4902, or 4999. Follow the Martinez settlement instructions in GN 02613.860GN 02613.885 for all other felony warrant codes.

Clark Court Order

On May 9, 2011, SSA changed its policy and no longer suspends or denies benefits or payments based solely on a probation or parole violation warrant (i.e., warrants with offense codes 5011, 5012, 8101, 8102, or 9999 or “Blank” and an offense charge symbol of “probation or parole violation”). Follow the Clark Court Order instructions in GN 02615.100GN 02615.190 for all probation or parole violation warrants.

We will make additional changes to this section, as necessary, in the future.

A. Policy

Generally, the field office manager is in the best position to decide how to handle sensitive interviews in their office. Factors such as the severity of the crime and the history of prior interviews with the individual should be considered in decisions about the level of security needed.

B. Procedure – FO employees

Employees who routinely interact with SSI recipients and applicants should prepare for the possibility that an individual may react unpredictably to being asked about their legal status. Every field office employee should be familiar with the office procedures for handling unruly customers.

If an individual in payments status code N25 visits the field office without an appointment, alert the field office manager.

C. Procedure – FO managers

Field office managers should periodically review their office security action plan and update it as necessary. Ensure that all field office employees are aware of their office security plan. Work with Regional Security staff to consider whether additional security measures, such as alarms, security guards, or closed circuit televisions are warranted.

When a person in N25 status visits the field office, the field office manager may use their discretion in alerting the local law enforcement official and/or the Federal Protective Service to the possible need for additional security.

When arranging for additional security in connection with a visit from someone identified as a fugitive felon or a parole or probation violator, the field office manager may release information or documents that would assist the Federal Protective Service or local law enforcement authorities in furnishing such security. Examples of information and documents are the name and photograph and/or physical description of the individual.

NOTE: If the contract guard is aware that a fugitive felon is in or coming to the field office (FO), they are required by the Federal Protective Service (FPS) to inform the FPS and/or local police. If the FPS is aware of a fugitive felon in or coming to the FO, they are required by law to inform the local police and if possible come to the office to aid in the arrest. If the local police are notified, they are required by law to come to the office to make an arrest.


To Link to this section - Use this URL:
http://policy.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0500530900
SI 00530.900 - What Security Measures Should Field Offices Take When Interviewing an Individual Identified as a Fugitive or a Parole or Probation Violator? - 01/26/2024
Batch run: 01/26/2024
Rev:01/26/2024