Topic 9: Classification of Offenders Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is classification in the context of corrections?
A diagnostic process undertaken by jail authorities to identify a comprehensive set of physical, emotional, behavioral and historical characteristics of incarcerated persons.
Classification helps in understanding the needs of the incarcerated individuals for better management and safety.
What are the primary purposes of classification?
- To house prisoners safely
- Protect staff and other incarcerated persons
- Treat incarcerated persons’ medical or psychological problems
- Provide programs and services that enable productive functioning in custody
- Enable compliance with laws regarding separation of certain categories of incarcerated persons
These purposes are crucial for maintaining order and safety within correctional facilities.
What does Title 15 1050 mandate regarding classification plans?
Each administrator of a facility must develop and implement a written classification plan to assign incarcerated persons to housing units and activities based on various criteria for safety.
This includes factors like sex, age, criminal sophistication, and health needs.
What resources are used in the classification process?
- C.L.E.T.S (California Law Enforcement Telecommunication System)
- ATIMS – for prior custody history
- Personal interviews with incarcerated persons
- Officer observations
- Property/person assessments
These resources help gather comprehensive information about each incarcerated individual.
Why is appropriate classification of incarcerated persons important?
- Increases security
- Identifies cohabitation compatibility
- Identifies special handling requirements
- Reduces escape possibilities
- Prevents victimization and extortion
- Mitigates legal liability for inappropriate mixing
Proper classification is essential to maintain safety and security within correctional facilities.
What does Penal Code 4002 state about housing for certain inmates?
Inmates pending civil process under sexually violent predator laws must be held in administrative separation, ensuring safety without unnecessary deprivation of privileges.
Administrative separation allows for continued treatment while ensuring the safety of inmates and staff.
What are the classification levels defined in the document?
- Level 1 – Honor Farm Minimum Security (may work off compound)
- Level 2 – Honor Farm Minimum Security (may work on compound)
- Level 3 – Honor Farm Minimum Security (work within the facility)
- Level 4 – General Population
- Level 5 – General Population (with medical or psychological issue)
- Level 6 – Protective Custody
- Level 7 – Management Problems/Disciplinary
- Level 8 – High Risk Incarcerated Persons (requires restraints)
Each level corresponds to the risk and needs of the incarcerated persons.
Define ‘General Population’ in corrections.
Incarcerated persons may be housed together without risk of safety for self, other incarcerated persons, staff, or to the facility.
This setting assumes no known enemies are present.
What is the definition of ‘Administrative Separation’?
Continued presence in general population poses a serious threat to life, health, property, self, other incarcerated persons, staff members, or the security of the facility.
This classification is used for individuals who may be suicidal or have management problems.
What are the risks associated with incarcerated persons who have medical/psychological problems?
- Contagious disease
- Refusal to take prescribed medication
These risks necessitate careful monitoring and protective measures for both staff and other inmates.
What is the purpose of Protective Custody?
To ensure the safety of incarcerated persons who require special housing due to potential threats from others.
This includes individuals like sex offenders and informants who may face danger from the general population.
Define ‘High Risk Incarcerated Persons’.
Incarcerated persons requiring special security measures to ensure safety of others and facility security.
These individuals may pose a threat due to their behavior or the nature of their crimes.
What is the process of reclassification in corrections?
Incarcerated persons are placed in the most appropriate level of custody, reviewed at different intervals for separation, medical/mental health needs, and general population.
Regular reviews help ensure that the classification remains appropriate based on behavior and needs.
What factors are considered for upgrade/downgrade in classification?
- Incarcerated person’s behavior while in custody
- Documented incidents of negative behavior
- Requests from the incarcerated person
Behavior in custody can lead to changes in classification level.
What is an example of a scenario for classification?
Eric Johnson, 19, was booked on PC 487 and initially classified as general population, subject to change.
This scenario illustrates the classification process in action.
