NCJ Number
78003
Journal
Magistrate Volume: 37 Issue: 6 Dated: (June 1981) Pages: 81-84
Date Published
1981
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This British paper evaluates alternatives to lengthy incarceration, which is expensive and has not reduced crime rates, and advises wider use of fines, which are cost effective.
Abstract
The 'treatment' model has not worked and should be abandoned. Instead, the principle of cost effectiveness, qualified by the community protection consideration, should be applied in sentencing. The fine is the most cost effective of all sentences since, instead of the community paying out money, the offender pays the community. Thus, it should be widely used in place of imprisonment. Probation should also be used more often to stem escalating prison sentences. Suspended sentences should be used with caution, mainly because of the high failure rate. Where prison sentences are unavoidable, a minimum sentence should be made; in the case of first-time offenders, this may be measured in days rather than months. No references are cited.