Causes and Consequences of Prison Growth in the United States

• NCJ Number: 187213
• Journal: Punishment & Society Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2001 Pages: 9-20
• Author(s): Marc Mauer
• Editor(s): David Garland
• Date Published: January 2001
• Length: 12 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom

Annotation

This article explores criminal justice policy changes that have substantially contributed to an unprecedented level of prison construction in the United States in recent years and the political climate underlying the increased prison growth.

Abstract

The significant growth in the prison and jail population in the United States can be traced to a complex set of political developments and changes in sentencing practices. The rise in crime in the 1960's came at a time of increasing social divisions and the politicization of crime at the national level. This influenced and coincided with a debate on sentencing practices, which led to a dramatic shift away from the indeterminate sentencing model that had prevailed for much of the 20th century. As a result, sentencing practices are now characterized by severe constraints on judges and parole officials in many jurisdictions and decreased emphasis on examining the unique circumstances of offender and offense. These changes in sentencing and the impact of the war on drugs have been the most significant features contributing to the rise in the use of incarceration since 1980. Criminal justice reform efforts of the past 20 years have achieved greater success than is often acknowledged. Sentencing alternatives and community corrections are standard practices in many jurisdictions, and community service and restitution as sanctions are common throughout the United States, along with day reporting centers, drug courts, and graduated sanctions for probation and parole violations. Despite these successes, prison construction continues to escalate. The author analyzes some of the problems associated with criminal justice reform efforts and concludes any movement for reduced incarceration will need to be based on a clear analysis of the role of politics, the media, and coalition building in order to succeed. 19 references