To snitch or not to snitch, that is the question: Exploring the role of inmate informants in detecting inappropriate relationships between the keeper and the kept

This paper investigates the role inmate informants play in detecting inappropriate prisoner–guard relationships. Data for this exploratory study were collected as part of a larger project, where the author conducted 32 face-to-face interviews with prisoners who engaged in inappropriate boundary violations with correctional officers. Twelve of these respondents (38%) reported that their relationships were brought to an end due to an inmate informant. Based on the interviews, it is likely that inmate informants are motivated to violate the subcultural norm of silence when they perceive fellow prisoners are engaging in inappropriate behaviors with prison staff. Further research in this area is warranted.