Title: U.S. Prison Security Levels: From Minimum to Maximum - Soapboxie
Headings: U.S. Prison Security Levels: From Minimum to Maximum
U.S. Prison Security Levels: From Minimum to Maximum
Jail vs. Prison
Minimum Security
Low Security
Medium Security
High Security
Correctional Complexes
Administrative Buildings
Examples of Administrative Facilities
Satellite Camps and Low Security
Satellite Camps
Satellite Low Security
Sources
Comments

Content: Compared to minimum security facilities, low security prisons have a higher staff-to-inmate ratio. Low security prisons also offer strong work and program components to keep inmates occupied and productive. Many of the inmates in low-security facilities are either first-time, low-risk criminals or those who have shown good behavior in the system and have earned the right to be in an environment that provides more freedom. Inmates can, in fact, earn their way to a low-security facility from a maximum-security building for good behavior. Medium Security
Inmates who end up at medium-security prisons are typically housed in cell-type housing. Their facilities are within double fences with electronic detection systems in place. A variety of work and treatment programs are available to these inmates as well if they comply and make efforts to improve their behavior. Prison guards have more internal controls in medium-security facilities. Prisoners at this level are viewed as escape risks and are potentially dangerous to other inmates and staff. There is usually constant and direct supervision of all inmates.