What is the first step in the VIO removal process according to the established guidelines?

The first step in the Victim Impact Offender (VIO) removal process, according to established guidelines, involves a recommendation from the classification committee. This step is crucial as the classification committee is responsible for evaluating the offender's status and presenting an official recommendation regarding their eligibility for VIO removal. This process ensures that all relevant factors and guidelines are considered before proceeding further.

The classification committee's recommendation serves as a foundational assessment, setting the stage for subsequent actions, including the possibility of presenting the case to the parole board and scheduling a hearing. Without this initial recommendation, the process cannot move forward effectively, as it is essential for establishing whether the offender meets the necessary criteria for removal based on their behavior, rehabilitation efforts, and compliance with institutional rules. Thus, this step is pivotal in the structured approach to re-evaluating the offender's placement in relation to victim impacts.