NCJ Number
119085
Date Published
1988
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The prison of the future, from a Canadian perspective, should be relatively small, with a competent staff and appropriate opportunities for inmates to participate in rehabilitative activities.
Abstract
The prison of the future must be limited to those offenders who cannot be managed safely and effectively in a less costly community context. It should be clear by now that the widespread use of imprisonment is not cost-effective. The prison of the future should be smaller and provide security measures primarily through electronic systems. Future prisons will be safer and fairer. Grievance mechanisms and mediation programs will diminish the frustration that leads to violence. There might well be standard or distinctive programs developed for inmates and framed in a cooperative agreement with the inmate. Program objectives would be achieved within a specified time frame, leading to a release date. There will be increased efforts to normalize institutional life, even to the extent of providing coeducational institutions and extended private family visitation. In Canada, future prisons must offer more opportunities for native people that reflect their special needs and values.