The first step is to evaluate each inmate for security risk. Before being placed in an institution, an inmate goes through a classification process. Trained correctional counselors consider not only the commitment offense but also the inmate's past behavior and prior convictions. The rank depends upon the prison's structure, security devices and assigned staffing. Level I inmate are non-violent offenders with generally less than 30 months to serve.
Inmates still live in dormitories but the facilities have fenced perimeters and armed coverage.
The inmates may have prior offenses but little history of institutional violence or escapes. These prisons have individual cells, fenced perimeters and armed coverage. Sentences are longer and inmates have several prior prison terms or significant behavior problems. In addition to cells and fenced or walled perimeters, maximum security prisons include electronic security, more staff and more armed officers. Inmates have a long history of crime or violence and generally are escape risks.