NCJ Number
211869
Journal
Justice Report Volume: 20 Issue: 4 Dated: Fall 2005 Pages: 24-26
Date Published
2005
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article briefly describes and evaluates the reintegration process of super-maximum offenders back into the general offender population in Canada through a specialized transitional period in a maximum treatment-oriented facility.
Abstract
In Canada, offenders who have committed serious acts of violence while incarcerated may be placed in the Special Handling Unit (SHU) which is a super-maximum security facility for close monitoring and tighter restrictions. Yet, approximately 60 percent or more are serving determinate sentences and will be released back to the community, and the environment of a super-maximum facility is not conducive to the delivery of high-intensity treatment. This article presents a strategy to facilitate the reintegration of super-maximum offenders through a specialized transitional period in a maximum treatment oriented facility where both the offender’s security requirements and clinical and treatment needs are sufficiently met, the Regional Psychiatric Centre (RPC). The RPC is a maximum-security accredited mental health facility within the Correctional Service of Canada. The article describes the goals and objectives of the RPC and evaluates the effectiveness of reintegration process after discharge from the RPC to the general inmate population. In summary, using the proposed model to reintegrate super-maximum security offenders to the general inmate population within regular institutions contributes to public safety and the humane management of offenders within the least restrictive environment possible. References