Texas Jail Standards §271 Classification Flashcards

Study Notes

Objective Classification Plan

Each sheriff/operator must implement an objective classification plan approved by the Texas Commission by January 1, 1997.
The plan must detail principles and procedures for classification assessments, housing assignments, and inmate needs.

Classification Factors

Classification must prioritize least restrictive housing without compromising safety for staff, inmates, or the public.
Risk factors for classification include current offense, offense history, escape history, disciplinary history, prior convictions, substance abuse, and stability factors.
Race, ethnicity, or religious preference cannot be factors in classification.

Custody Levels and Housing

Assessments must include minimum, medium, and maximum custody levels along with special housing needs.
Separate housing required for minimum and maximum custody level inmates.
Inmates of different custody levels may participate in work and program activities under direct supervision.

Separation of Inmates

Juveniles must be visually and audibly separated from adults, per Family Code §51.12.
Female inmates must be separated by sight and sound from male inmates, but both may participate in activities under supervision.
Contracted TDCJ-ID and federal inmates can be classified as per respective policies when housed separately.

Housing for Prisoners in Transit

Inmates in transit are defined as those being transported between facilities.
Temporary housing for transit inmates requires written confirmation from the transporting agency ensuring safe housing.
Females must be separated by sight and sound from males during transit.
Observation is required every 30 minutes, and transit inmates cannot be housed for more than 48 consecutive hours.

Special Housing Considerations

Inmates in detoxification cells must be moved to suitable housing once they can care for themselves.
Condition of inmates in violent cells must be reassessed at least every 24 hours.
Inmates needing protection may be placed in administrative separation, reviewed every 30 days.
Inmates in administrative separation retain access to services unless it jeopardizes facility safety.

Access and Conditions

Single cells may be used for disciplinary or administrative separation.
Inmates in administrative separation must have access to a day room for at least one hour daily.
In disciplinary separation, inmates must receive a shower every other day.

Description

Test your knowledge on the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, specifically focusing on the objective classification plan for inmates. These flashcards cover essential principles, procedures, and guidelines necessary for the proper management and classification of inmates in the facility.