Which of the following is an indicator that precedes a riot?

• A. An increase in fights and requests for protective custody
• B. Changes in inmate behavior
• C. Food hoarding
• D. Inmate cooperation with staff

Answer: (A)

When predicting an impending riot, look for signs of rising violence and the desire to isolate from others. An uptick in fights shows active conflict already breaking out, while more inmates asking for protective custody indicates they fear for their safety or want separation from the general population. Together, these behaviors reveal escalating tension and a real risk of larger, organized disruption if the situation isn’t addressed promptly.

Other indicators are less specific. Broad changes in inmate behavior can be vague and open to multiple interpretations. Food hoarding might reflect stress or competition for resources but doesn’t directly signal an imminent riot. Inmate cooperation with staff tends to imply compliance and order, not unrest.