What classification do inmates under a sentence of death belong to?

Inmates under a sentence of death are classified as maximum custody. This classification is primarily due to the heightened security risks associated with death row inmates. Such inmates are typically housed in facilities that require strict control and management to prevent escapes, manage potential violence, and ensure safety for staff and other inmates.

Maximum custody entails not just isolation from the general population but also often includes extensive surveillance and restrictions on movement. The nature of their sentences and the potential for significant public scrutiny contribute to the necessity for this level of security. By being classified under maximum custody, these inmates are afforded a level of supervision aimed at maintaining institutional safety and order, reflecting the severity of their sentences.