4. A clear definition of Allied policy with regard to the obviously dangerous as well as to only potentially dangerous Germans is required at this time in order to establish uniform provisions for disposing of these persons in the various Zones.
5. Categories and Sanctions
Composition of categories and sanctions are treated in detail in Part II of this Directive. They shall be applied in accordance with the following general principles:
(a) A distinction should be made between imprisonment of war criminals and similar offenders for criminal conduct and internment of potentially dangerous persons who may be confined because their freedom would constitute a danger to the Allied Cause.
(b) Zone Commanders may, if they so desire, place an individual in a lower category on probation, with the exception of those who have been convicted as major offenders on account of their guilt in specific crimes.
(c) Within the categories, Zone Commanders will retain discretion to vary the sanctions if necessary to meet the requirements of individual cases within the limits laid down in this Directive.
(d) The classification of all offenders and potentially dangerous persons, assessment of sanctions and the review of cases will be carried out by agencies to be designated by the Zone Commanders as responsible for the implementation of this directive.
(e) The Zone Commanders and tribunals will have the authority to upgrade or downgrade individuals between categories. Zone Commanders may, if they wish, use German tribunals for the purpose of classification, trial and review.
(f) In order to prevent persons dealt with under this Directive avoiding any of the consequences of the Directive by moving to another Zone, each Zone Commander will ensure that the other Zones know and understand the methods employed by him in endorsing the identity documents of classified individuals.
(g) To implement this Directive, it is recommended that each Zone Commander will issue Orders or Zonal Laws conforming in substance to the provisions and principles of this Directive in his own Zone. Zone Commanders will supply each other with copies of such Laws or Orders.
(h) Provided that such Zonal Laws are in general conformity with the principles here set forth, full discretion is reserved to the individual Zone Commanders as regards their application in detail in accordance with the local situation in their respective Zones.
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