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Prudent Use of Prison Space - The Sentencing Improvement Act

NCJ Number
100640
Journal
Journal of Legislation Volume: 11 Issue: 2 Dated: (Summer 1984) Pages: 237-248
Author(s)
W L Armstrong
Date Published
1984
Length
12 pages
Annotation
With its emphasis on selective incapacitation of violent and repeat offenders and the use of dispositional alternatives for nonviolent offenders, the Sentencing Improvement Act has the potential for reducing prison overcrowding and costs while improving the effectiveness and quality of justice.
Abstract
Since the 1800's, imprisonment has been the traditional punishment for criminal offenses. However, the growing prison population has resulted in serious overcrowding in a large majority of States and escalating prison costs. Recognizing the serious consequences of prison overcrowding, the Sentencing Improvement Act (S. 1644) provides guidelines based on the principle that violent and habitual offenders deserve imprisonment, while nonviolent offenders might merit alternative forms of punishment. Alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent offenders include restitution to victims, community service, and other forms of community corrections. Not only should the use of alternatives reduce overcrowding and prison costs, it provides benefits for victims, the community, and the offender. 118 notes.