Correctional Counselor (CC1) Practice Exam

Which factor influences the duration of close custody for inmates found guilty of planning an escape?

1. Type of crime committed

2. Threat perceived

3. Inmate's behavior post-conviction

4. Length of prior sentences

The correct answer is: Threat perceived

The duration of close custody for inmates found guilty of planning an escape is significantly influenced by the threat perceived. When evaluating the seriousness of an inmate's actions, a correctional facility must assess how much risk the attempted escape poses to the institution, staff, other inmates, and the public. Higher levels of threat associated with the escape plan can lead to a longer duration of close custody, as the facility aims to mitigate any potential risks until they are confident that the inmate no longer poses a major security threat. While other factors, such as the type of crime committed, the inmate's behavior following the conviction, and the length of prior sentences, can play a role in overall classification and custody levels, they are not as directly related to the specific assessment of risk from escape behavior. The focus on perceived threat takes into account the specific circumstances of the escape plan, the inmate’s history, and any evidence of intent or capability to carry out additional escape attempts, making it a pivotal factor in determining close custody duration.