Fri., June 24, 2011

Jails ask scantily clad visitors to cover up

This image provided by the Department of Correction shows a poster explaining proper New York City jail attire. The jail dress code prohibits swimwear, short skirts and gang symbols, among other items. The policy requires visitors to wear clothing appropriate for a family gathering, including underwear. Officials are asking scantily clad visitors to cover up with bright green T-shirts. ((AP Photo/Dept. of Correction))

NEW YORK (AP) — New York City jail officials are asking scantily clad visitors to cover up with bright green T-shirts.

The city Department of Correction spent $5,000 on 800 extra-extra-large neon shirts. They're washed daily.

The jail dress code prohibits gang symbols, swimwear, and short skirts, among other attire. The policy requires visitors to wear clothing appropriate for a family gathering, including underwear.

The T-shirts aren't just for women. Men with ripped clothes or T-shirts bearing expletives could also be asked to wear them. Jewelry — besides wedding rings — also is discouraged.

The new policy, which was reported by The Daily News on Tuesday, took effect in March.

Department spokeswoman Sharman Stein says the policy will also help catch visitors trying to sneak in contraband. The T-shirts have no pockets.

Posted June 24, 2011, 7 a.m.