NCJ Number
103115
Date Published
1986
Length
71 pages
Annotation
This study discusses the development of Alaska's sentencing law, including a brief history of American and Alaskan sentencing practices; assesses the new sentencing law's impact on Alaska's prison populations; considers factors which can affect prison populations; and describes alternatives for reducing prison populations.
Abstract
Alaska's 1978 criminal code revised sentencing and early release provisions, applying indeterminate sentencing to most first-time felons and presumptive sentencing to subsequent convictions. The new code limited the effect of parole and 'good time' credit on actual time served. Subsequent amendments to the code have generally toughened sentencing. Based upon available data, the revised sentencing law has probably helped increase the State's prison population, since time served for crimes comprising the bulk of inmate time has increased, and the percentage of crimes subject to mandatory imprisonment has also increased. The specific numerical effect of the new sentencing law on the prison population growth cannot be determined due to data inadequacies. Means of reducing prison crowding include the reduction of time served by shortening sentences and providing for early release and the reduction of prison admissions through such means as probation, house arrest, intensive probation, alternative incarceration, and conservation camps. These options are feasible for Alaska. Appended tabular data on sentencing for various offenses in Alaska.