Objective Point Base Classification Carol Mici Acting Deputy Commissioner

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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. Continued Monitoring • STG Members • Escape • Length of Time to Release