M.02.01.Res.01 Guidelines for accommodating security categories

M.02.01.R01.01 Housing prisoners

A prisoner who has been assigned a security classification must be placed and managed within a facility and regime that is consistent with his security classification to the extent that is practical (having regard to the availability of accommodation and other resources).

Facilities for accommodation should be matched to the level of risk indicated by the prisoner’s security classification. ([M.02.01.Res.03 Security classification placement summary])

Facilities are classified as low, high or maximum security.

Female prisoner with a security classification of Maximum are to be held in the management unit at Auckland Region Women’s Corrections Facility.

M.02.01.R01.02 General separation of categories

Category high and maximum security prisoners must be housed separately from category minimum / low / low medium security prisoners.

M.02.01.R01.03 Mixing prisoners with different security classifications

During the prison day, category minimum / low / low medium prisoners can mix within the confines of the secure perimeter, at the discretion of the general manager custodial, for the purpose of rehabilitation, reintegration, education, employment, cultural programmes and opportunities, and mental health treatment.

If a category high prisoner meets the criteria for inclusion in a programme that requires accommodation with category minimum / low / low medium prisoners (excluding self-care units) this must be assessed on an individual basis.

The approval of the general manager custodial is required.

M.02.01.R01.04 Placing category high prisoners in areas of lower physical security

From time to time a prison may have to place a category high security prisoner in accommodation housing prisoners with a lower security level.

Director Prisoner Capacity and Planning approval is required.

Prisoners selected for such temporary accommodation arrangements should be selected by choosing those prisoners in high category who have the lowest risk levels.

Prisoners should not have their security classification reviewed as a result of a temporary need for accommodation. They should retain their higher risk security classification. This identifies their need for more intensive supervision and may preclude their involvement in certain activities available to other prisoners within the lower security unit or wing.