NCJ Number
157889
Journal
State Factor Volume: 20 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1994) Pages: complete issue
Date Published
1994
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper describes a conditional early release program and presents text of a model law to provide a method for reducing penitentiary and jail populations to acceptable levels while making sure that dangerous felons are kept in prison.
Abstract
The discussion argues that research indicates that incarceration is effective, but sufficient jail and prison space does not exist to enable convicted violent offenders to serve their sentences. A conditional early release program offers a solution to the problem of overcrowding. It relies on performance bonds and indemnity agreements to keep those who take part in the program from committing crimes. The program would focus on the large percentage of criminals held in county jails on misdemeanor nonviolent sentences and to a lesser extent those held in State correctional facilities on nonviolent offenses. It would require families and communities to take some responsibility for future acts of the young person who is displaying signs of trouble. Also, at the pretrial stage, adequate local jail space would always be available for preventively detaining any person who would pose a serious threat to the community if released prior to trial. The program would generate family and community support for rehabilitating offenders and promote the principle of collaborative efforts among local government and the private sector, all with no new costs to State and local government. Reference notes and text of model legislation