Sentence Planning for Long-Term Inmates

• NCJ Number: 100592
• Journal: Federal Probation Volume: 44 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1985) Pages: 23-28
• Author(s): T J Flanagan
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 6 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Based on a paper presented at the 47th Annual Meeting of the Middle Atlantic States Correctional Association, Farmington, Connecticut, May 7, 1985.

Annotation

This article discusses the planning and development of correctional management policy and programming appropriate to the growing, long-term inmate population.

Abstract

Such planning requires that managers focus on the differences between short- and long-term inmates, the diversity among long-term inmates, and the prison-relevance of work, educational, and training experiences. Further, the management strategy must be guided by three basic objectives: maximization of choice, enhanced meaningfulness of prison life, and decreased social isolation along with increased exposure to positive role models from the community. Attempts at meeting some of the needs of long-term inmates include lifers' clubs, groups engaging in crime prevention efforts, and those with a broader community service orientation. The scope and impact of such groups has varied and depends on staff support, group membership, and the nature of the activities. Elements that may contribute to the success of such programs include a public service focus, supportive staff linkages, an external advisory board, community involvement and support, and a small, self-selected group format. 29 notes.