NCJ Number
91851
Date Published
1981
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study aimed to provide a data base for use by decisionmakers as a policy planning tool and guideline in determining what course of action Kentucky should pursue.
Abstract
The study provides a system overview of the State's 119 jails, summarizes its revenue sources, jail operations, monitoring responsibilities, inmate population, and pretrial services. It also reports study findings on jail conditions, classifications of jails, age of the facilities, and types of deficiencies. Additional detail is given on population findings regarding sample demographics, offense data, and occupancy rates. An assessment is made of the effect of the decriminalization of public intoxication bill on occupancy rates. Following summary findings on revenue and operational expenditures by source and per diem, statewide projections are made. The report concludes that the fee system which is the major source of revenue for operating the State's jails is based solely on the number of persons entering the jails and that this system promotes incarceration and overcrowding as well as inequities in State revenue distribution. Recommendations are for changing the fee system, developing a comprehensive set of standards, and making a needs assessment regarding the operation of a jail in each county. Charts and tabular data are provided.