NCJ Number
124575
Date Published
1989
Length
41 pages
Annotation
This report examines alternative punishments which could assist San Mateo County to reduce its jail population and thus ease overcrowding.
Abstract
Methodological approaches included interviews with criminal justice policy makers as well as key staff persons; review and analysis of data on the numbers and types of inmates admitted to the jail; interviews with inmates; and review and analysis of jail capacity and population projections. Data illustrated that sentenced offenders make up the majority of the jail population and that there is a large surplus of minimum security inmates. These minimum security inmates could well be targeted for alternative punishments in order to significantly reduce the current jail crowding in San Mateo County. Recommendations to significantly reduce the jail population include establishing a diversion program for driving with a revoked or suspended license defendants; establishing pretrial and sentenced offender home confinement and electronic monitoring programs; and expanding county parole and/or community release programs. 14 tables, and appendix