What is the primary difference between administrative segregation and disciplinary segregation?

The primary difference between administrative segregation and disciplinary segregation lies in their intended purposes within the correctional system. Administrative segregation is often utilized as a protective measure; it is employed to separate inmates for reasons related to safety and security. This can include protecting an inmate from potential harm, such as threats from other inmates, or managing individuals who pose a risk to the overall order of the facility, but without direct punishment being the goal.

On the other hand, disciplinary segregation is explicitly punitive, intended for inmates who have committed rule violations or disruptive behavior within the facility. It serves as a consequence for specific actions that merit a loss of privileges or a more restricted environment as a form of discipline.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the operational protocols within correctional facilities, as well as the rights and treatment of inmates based on their behavior and the conditions of their confinement. This nuanced knowledge is essential for anyone involved in corrections, including staff and administrators, to ensure that proper procedures are followed according to the nature of each inmate's circumstances.