A Validation of the Iowa Department of Correction’s Inmate Classification System, April 2014

The purpose of this analysis is to conduct a validation study of the Iowa Department of Correction’s (IDOC) current prison Custody Classification instrument. “The Iowa Department of Corrections uses custody level classification to determine the appropriate facility security level for inmates. The process includes an annual review and potential reclassification. Reclassification to a less restrictive custody level”1 “…is awarded by obeying rules and meeting other mandatory requirements. Other factors are also taken into consideration including pending charges, physical and mental health needs, risk to the community, risk to other offenders and staff, number and nature of infractions, and time since last infraction.” 2 There are three types of custody levels