NCJ Number
197232
Journal
Perspectives Volume: 26 Issue: 4 Dated: Fall 2002 Pages: 32-38
Editor(s)
William Burrell
Date Published
2002
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The effects of complex public policies on sentencing and parole and the need for rational, comprehensive public policies that provide for planned release from custody and post-release supervision to protect the community are addressed in this article.
Abstract
A review of the history of Massachusetts' experience with the adoption of the popular policy of "truth in sentencing" and its effect on prisoner release is provided here. A discussion of the policy questions around inmate release in Massachusetts is also included, including truth-in sentencing-reform in 1993. The intent of that policy was to get tough on crime but had the opposite effect and actually increased the number of offenders released into the community without supervision. The practice of parole, pre-release practice of correctional institutions, and conditions of release are topics covered. Also, it is noted that sentencing practices have resulted in inmates being released to probation supervision in overcrowded probation caseloads resulting in increased arrests. Tables are included showing first-time recidivism rates of prisoners released from 15 States in 1994, terms of release from the Massachusetts Department of Corrections in 1999, terms of release by security level of the correctional institution, and type of release from Suffolk County House of Correction in January 2001. Endnotes provide a list of source references. In conclusion, it is noted that an opportunity for improving public safety exists at the point of reentry of prisoners into the community when a modest reduction in recidivism will result in a substantial reduction in criminal victimization and criminal justice expense. However, it is reported that because reforms have not been effective, improvements in policy and practice are needed to begin to achieve high returns.