NCJ Number
177407
Journal
On Good Authority Volume: 1 Issue: 4 Dated: June 1998 Pages: -
Date Published
1998
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article summarizes evaluations of Illinois programs designed to alleviate overcrowding in county jails.
Abstract
The Sheriff's Work Alternative Program (SWAP) was implemented in Madison and Adams counties in 1992. The programs were established to reduce jail crowding and provide a means by which nonviolent offenders could repay their debt to the community by performing public service. The programs were designed to include persons convicted of driving under the influence, as well as those convicted of misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies. The Madison County SWAP removed inmates from the county jail and provided a means for offenders to repay their debts to society. The program maintained strict standards for conduct and job performance without compromising community safety. Both governmental and charitable entities expressed gratitude for the work conducted by SWAP participants. The Adams County SWAP also provided an opportunity for offenders to perform public service and provide restitution to the community. Because most SWAP participants in Adams County remained incarcerated while performing their required SWAP hours, and because the jail was not operating over capacity, the evaluation did not address the objective of reducing the jail population for the Adams County program. Tables