If the inmate refuses to sign the inventory form, what action should be taken?

• A. Have another officer witness the refusal
• B. Have the inmate sign anyway
• C. Do nothing
• D. Notify a supervisor

Answer: (A)

When an inmate refuses to sign the inventory form, the important step is to create an objective record of that refusal. Having another officer witness the refusal provides independent verification that the form was offered and declined, which protects the integrity of the inventory process and helps prevent later disputes. Forcing a signature would be inappropriate and could imply consent; doing nothing would leave no documentation of the event. Notifying a supervisor can be a necessary follow-up, but the immediate action that ensures proper documentation is securing a witness to corroborate the refusal.