Synopsis of the Different Federal Prison Levels

The United States federal prison system is divided into five security levels: minimum, low, medium, high, and administrative. The level of security assigned to a prison is based on a number of factors, including the type of offense committed, the risk of violence, and the escape risk.

Minimum Security Prisons

Minimum security prisons are the least secure type of federal prison. They are designed for inmates who pose a low risk of violence or escape. Minimum security prisons are often referred to as “camps” or “clubs.”

Inmates in minimum security prisons typically live in dormitories or open barracks. They have a lot of freedom of movement and are allowed to participate in a variety of activities, such as work, education, and recreation.

Low-Security Prisons

Low-security prisons are more secure than minimum-security prisons, but they are still considered to be relatively low-risk facilities. Low-security prisons are often referred to as “prisons” or “correctional institutions.”

Inmates in low-security prisons typically live in dormitories or open barracks. They have some freedom of movement, but they are subject to more restrictions than inmates in minimum security prisons.

Medium Security Prisons

Medium security prisons are the most common type of federal prison. They are designed for inmates who pose a moderate risk of violence or escape. Medium security prisons are often referred to as “prisons” or “correctional institutions.”

Inmates in medium security prisons typically live in single cells or small dormitories. They have less freedom of movement than inmates in minimum or low-security prisons, and they are subject to more restrictions.

High-Security Prisons

High-security prisons are the most secure type of federal prison. They are designed for inmates who pose a high risk of violence or escape. High-security prisons are often referred to as “supermax” prisons or “control units.”

Inmates in high-security prisons typically live in single cells. They have very limited freedom of movement and are subject to strict security measures.

Administrative Security Prisons

Administrative security prisons are a special type of federal prison that is designed to house inmates who pose a unique security risk. Administrative security prisons are often referred to as “supermax” prisons or “control units.”

Inmates in administrative security prisons typically live in single cells. They have very limited freedom of movement and are subject to strict security measures.

The level of security assigned to a prison is important because it determines the type of programming and services that are available to inmates. Inmates in minimum-security prisons have more access to programs and services than inmates in high-security prisons.

The level of security assigned to a prison is also important because it affects the cost of housing an inmate. The cost of housing an inmate in a minimum security prison is much lower than the cost of housing an inmate in a high-security prison.

The federal prison system is a complex system that is designed to meet the needs of a variety of inmates. The level of security assigned to a prison is an important factor that determines the type of programming and services that are available to inmates, as well as the cost of housing an inmate.