NCJ Number
138043
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 8 Issue: 2 Dated: (1992) Pages: 114-136
Date Published
1992
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This study reviews statistics on the prevalence of indigenous peoples' representation in the Canadian correctional system and assesses the correctional policies and programs that affect these people.
Abstract
Although statistics on the representation of aborigines in the Canadian correctional population are sparse and flawed, there is sufficient evidence that they are incarcerated in Federal, provincial, and territorial correctional facilities in numbers far in excess of their representation in the general population. A 1982 study by Hylton indicates that crime by aborigines consists mostly of minor infractions indicative of social rather than criminal problems. Their tendency to default on fines increases the likelihood they will be incarcerated for minor offenses. In 1975 the Federal Solicitor General sponsored the National Conference on Native Peoples and the Criminal Justice System. Attended by Federal, provincial, and aboriginal leaders, the conference developed policies designed to address discrimination and resultant overrepresentation of aboriginal offenders in the criminal justice system. The conference concluded that aborigines do not have equal access to most of the regular services provided other suspects, convicted offenders, and ex-inmates. The conference recommended that aborigines should be involved in the planning and delivery of criminal justice services to their people. Another recommendation was that aboriginal communities be given resources to develop services tailored to the culturally based needs and attitudes of aborigines. These recommendations imply cultural awareness training for criminal justice personnel and the localization of corrections. 7 footnotes and 47 references