Street
the numbers
What does the numbers mean?
The Vulnerable Prisoner (VP) wing, where at-risk inmates such as sex offenders and informers are housed. 'Going on the numbers' means transferring there.
"He couldn't hack it on the main and went on the numbers."
Origin
Reference to Prison Rule 45 (formerly Rule 43) covering removal from association.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'the numbers' mean in prison?
'The numbers' is the Vulnerable Prisoner (VP) wing, where at-risk inmates such as sex offenders and informers are housed. 'Going on the numbers' means transferring there for protection.
Where does 'the numbers' come from?
It refers to Prison Rule 45 (formerly Rule 43), which covers removal from association for a prisoner's own protection.
How do you use 'the numbers'?
You'd say someone 'went on the numbers', as in the example where they 'couldn't hack it on the main and went on the numbers.'
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