What term is used for inmates in protective custody?

The term "Special Management Inmates" refers specifically to inmates who are placed in protective custody due to various reasons such as a threat to their safety, vulnerability, or being at risk of assault from other inmates. This classification recognizes the unique needs of these individuals, who may require additional protections and different management strategies than the general inmate population.

In protective custody, these inmates are often separated from the general population to ensure their safety, which can be due to factors like their cooperation with law enforcement, former roles in certain professions, or even the nature of their crimes. The term emphasizes the specialized oversight and care needed to manage these inmates effectively and safely.

The other terms listed do not accurately describe this category of inmates. "Maximum Security Inmates" refers to those housed in the highest security facilities often due to their convictions or perceived dangerousness, while "Adjusted Security Inmates" is not a widely recognized term in corrections terminology. "Sentenced Inmates" simply describes those who have been found guilty and sentenced but does not encapsulate the protective measures or specific management needed for vulnerable inmates.