Objective Point Base Classification Carol Mici Acting Deputy Commissioner Massachusetts Department of Correction

Objective Classification  The standardized evaluation & custody assignment of an inmate based on objectively defined criteria  Rely on factors that have been scientifically proven to predict prison adjustment  Designed to match the security needs of each prisoner with the appropriate custody level institution  Addresses issues of over & under classification  The criteria are weighed, scored, and organized into a valid and reliable classification instrument  Applications of restrictions and/or overrides are done so in a systematic manner and are monitored for appropriateness

Initial Classification Variables Severity of Current Offense Severity of Conviction w/in last 7 years History of Escapes or Attempts to Escape History of Prior Institutional Violence w/in the last 7 years Age Education Employment

Reclassification Variables Severity of Current Offense Severity of Convictions within last 7 years History of Escape or Attempts to Escape History of Prior Institutional Violence w/in last 7 years Number of Disciplinary Reports w/in last 12 months –For females, it is within the last 6 months Most Severe Disciplinary w/in last 18 months –For females, it is within the last 12 months Age Program Participation or Work Assignment

Underclassification vs. Overclassification Housing high security inmates in too low a security setting presents obvious problems – escapes, assaults, intimidation, and other internal management problems The confinement of low security inmates in a high security setting is dangerous for those individuals –It unnecessarily subjects them to threats, and physical attacks from more aggressive, hostile inmates –It is more costly than necessary to house lower custody inmates in a maximum security

Benefits Greater consistency Better use of bed space Reduces inmate litigation Variables on this Objective Classification form all have statistical significance in predicting prison adjustment Variables and overrides may be modified

Non-Discretionary Overrides An override of a scored custody level, based on the agency’s policy of restricting the custody level of particular inmates. Classification staff has no discretionary power to disregard such restrictions Overrides used on inmates with exceptions Customized to your state

Discretionary Overrides An override of a scored custody level based on the professional judgment of trained classification staff. Should not exceed 15% May be used if appropriate and a detailed rationale is provided Coded, tracked and monitored

Lessons Learned Weights and points are different for the male and female populations Modifications to the MADOC tool: –Severity of Convictions within the last 7 years –Points for lower security –Permissible legal issues –Length of time to release

Continued Monitoring STG Members Escape Length of Time to Release