Which of the following is considered a "major offense" under TDCJ regulations?

The classification of offenses under TDCJ regulations is crucial for maintaining order and safety within the correctional system. A "major offense" is defined as a severe violation that poses a significant threat to the safety, security, and orderly operation of the institution or endangers the staff and inmate population.

Assault on staff is considered a major offense because it directly threatens the well-being of employees who are responsible for maintaining control and ensuring the security of the facility. Such actions can lead to serious physical harm, trauma, and a breakdown of trust within the institution, making it necessary to address this offense with stringent penalties to deter its occurrence.

In contrast, while other options such as theft of personal items, writing complaints, and unauthorized use of email can lead to disciplinary actions, they do not carry the same immediate risk to safety and security that an assault entails. Consequently, they are generally categorized as less severe infractions. Understanding these classifications is vital for individuals working within TDCJ to effectively manage and respond to different types of inmate behavior.