Frequent Questions

Inmate Classification

Note: You can access the applicable DOC policies by clicking on Policies under the About Us tab.    
1.5.B.01 Offender Classification

How are inmates classified?

It is the policy of the South Dakota Department of Corrections (DOC) to exercise response to risk considering an assessment of risk and efficient management of offender population.

Each offender in the custody of the DOC shall be assigned/classified to one of four custody levels:Close, Medium, Minimum R, and Minimum. Offenders are assigned to a custody level that is the least restrictive necessary to keep the offender detained in DOC custody. An offender’s assigned custody level determines the level of staff supervision that must be applied by staff supervising the offender. An offender’s custody level/classification may affect his/her housing, employment, transport, programming

Does an inmate have a right to be housed in a certain facility?

No inmate has any implied right or expectation to be housed in any particular facility, participate in any specific program, or receive any specific service.