National Conference on Alternatives to Incarceration, Boston, Massachusetts - Reel 1

• NCJ Number: 84038
• Author(s): H Alter; Randall; F Hall; D Tilson
• Date Published: Unknown
• Length: 0 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: National Council of Churches
• Publication Format: Film
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS. Videotape, 65 minutes, black and white, 1/2 inch. For the complete conference proceedings, see NCJ-84038-84046.

Annotation

Community-based corrections, diversion programs, and other forms of alternative programming are needed to reform a corrections system facing overcrowded conditions and budget cuts. State corrections officials from South Carolina, California, and Vermont discuss the progress made in implementing alternatives in their States.

Abstract

South Carolina's correctional facilities are at 147 percent capacity. This necessitates the implementation of alternative programming. California officials are taking steps to divert increasing numbers of violent juvenile offenders. Diversion programs may become a fad, however, especially if criminal justice personnel misunderstand the theory behind diversion. Moreover, a public backlash may be developing against alternative programming in the State. Although a State's alternative programming can provide an opportunity to reallocate resources, officials should still provide for all inmates regardless of their participation in alternative programs. California uses probation subsidies to reallocate resources. Vermont has recently closed a maximum security institution and has reorganized its correctional system. The State has passed work release and furlough statutes as part of its plan to offer alternative programming.