MCO 1630.3D — Operation And Administration Of Holding Cells And Detention Spaces

MCO 1630.3D governs the operation and administration of Marine Corps holding cells and detention spaces.

Search MCO 1630.3D

  • Publication number: MCO 1630.3D
  • Title: OPERATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF HOLDING CELLS AND DETENTION SPACES
  • Date: 6 Dec 2000
  • Proponent: 01000 Military Personnel
  • Status: Current

View MCO 1630.3D on armypubs.army.mil


MCO 1630.3D addresses detention authority, holding-cell time limits, physical plant standards, administration, inspections, waivers, and reserve applicability. It requires specified construction, safety, medical, documentation, and inspection measures.

Applies to: This Order is applicable to the Marine Corps Reserve.

Topics covered

  • Detention authority
  • Holding-cell time limits
  • Detention-space standards
  • Physical plant requirements
  • Medical examinations
  • Fire protection
  • Inspection schedules

Questions and answers

When may personnel be detained in a holding cell or detention space?

Persons may be detained only if there are reasonable grounds to believe a criminal offense has been or is being committed and the person to be detained committed or is committing the offense. (paragraph 4)

Can someone be detained for protective custody or safekeeping?

Under no circumstances may an individual be placed in detention for protective custody or safekeeping. (paragraph 4)

How long can a holding cell be used for short-term detention?

A holding cell is used for short-term detention, defined to mean no more than 24 hours during the work week, not more than 72 hours over a weekend, and not more than an additional 24 hours over an official holiday weekend. (paragraph 4)

How long can a detention space be used for short-term detention?

A detention space is any cell, room, or other berthing space of the shore establishment used for short-term detention, defined to mean not more than eight hours. (paragraph 4)

What medical examination rule applies before extended detention?

No person will be detained in excess of 24 hours without a medical examination (to include a pregnancy test for females) as prescribed in reference (a). (paragraph 4)

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