RANDOLPH COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

2.5.1 Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish standardized procedures for the use of risk assessment tools in the Randolph County Detention Center. These tools are used to assist in determining appropriate classification, housing assignment, supervision levels, and management of detainees based on objective risk factors.

2.5.2 Policy Statement

The Randolph County Detention Center shall utilize structured risk assessment tools during intake and throughout incarceration to support classification decisions. These tools are intended to promote facility safety, reduce violence, and ensure appropriate housing placement based on objective criteria.

Risk assessment tools shall support, but not replace, professional judgment by trained classification staff.

2.5.3 Use of Risk Assessment Tools

Risk assessment tools shall be used to evaluate detainees based on factors including, but not limited to:

• Current offense severity;

• Criminal history;

• History of violence or institutional misconduct;

• Escape history or flight risk indicators;

• Gang affiliation or security intelligence information;

• Vulnerability status (medical, mental health, age, or protective custody needs);

• Behavioral observations during intake;

2.5.4 Classification Support Function

Risk assessment results shall be used to support decisions regarding:

• Initial housing assignment;

• Custody level designation (minimum,maximum, special management);

• Separation requirements;

• Supervision levels;

• Movement restrictions within the facility;

Final classification decisions shall be made by authorized classification or supervisory personnel.

2.5.5 Documentation Requirements

All risk assessment evaluations shall be:

• Completed at intake or as soon as practicable;

• Documented in the detainee’s classification file;

• Stored in the jail management system;

• Updated when new information becomes available;

Any overrides of risk assessment recommendations shall be documented with justification.

2.5.6 Reassessment Procedures

Risk assessments shall be reviewed and updated when:

• New charges are filed;

• Behavioral incidents occur;

• Security intelligence is received;

• A detainee is involved in disciplinary action;

• A classification review is requested;

2.5.7 Staff Responsibility and Training

Staff responsible for classification and intake shall receive training in:

• Proper use of risk assessment tools;

• Objective decision-making principles;

• Bias awareness and consistency in scoring;

• Documentation standards;

2.5.8 Limitations of Tools

Risk assessment tools are designed to assist decision-making and do not replace professional judgment. Staff shall not rely solely on numerical scoring when making classification decisions.

2.5.9 Compliance and Accountability

Improper use, manipulation, or failure to complete risk assessment tools may result in corrective action. Supervisors shall ensure consistent application of this policy.