NCJ Number
177898
Journal
Forum on Corrections Research Volume: 9 Issue: 1 Dated: January 1997 Pages: 55-57
Date Published
1997
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article examines the legal basis for assigning inmates a security classification in Canadian prisons and analyzes the decision-making process that the Correctional Service of Canada uses to make the assignment, along with the main difficulties associated with the procedure.
Abstract
Section 30 of Canada's Corrections and Conditional Release Act, adopted in 1992, requires the Correctional Service of Canada to assign each inmate a security classification of maximum, medium, or minimum in accordance with the Regulations. Section 18 of the Regulations requires that the Service assign each inmate a security classification on the basis of assessed probability of escape, the risk to public safety, and the degree of supervision and control required within the prison. Inmates are assigned the lowest security classification that meets their individual need, based on an assessment of these three main criteria. Factors considered when assigning a security classification include the seriousness of the offense for which committed, any outstanding charges, inmate behavior, inmate history, physical or mental illness, and potential for violent behavior. As long as these criteria are respected and the classification decisions are justified on the basis of these criteria, the courts will not intervene in these administrative decisions. 4 notes