Who is classified as a prisoner within the NYC Department of Correction?

The classification of a prisoner within the NYC Department of Correction is defined by the legal custody status of an individual rather than solely their criminal charges or sentences. A person in custody indicates that they are under the authority of the correctional system, regardless of whether they have been formally convicted or are awaiting trial. This definition includes individuals who may be detained for various reasons, such as awaiting arraignment, trial, or serving a sentence, which encompasses a broader scope than merely those sentenced or charged.

This classification is pivotal for operational, legal, and procedural reasons within the correctional system. Being classified as a prisoner implies that individuals are subject to the department's regulations, security measures, and rehabilitation programs intended for those under correctional supervision. Hence, any person in custody correctly encompasses all individuals who may be held within the facility, making this definition the most appropriate reflection of what constitutes a prisoner under the NYC Department of Correction.