NCJ Number
101050
Date Published
1986
Length
97 pages
Annotation
Using data from a mail survey of 39 Federal, State, and Canadian jurisdictions, this manuscript examines the evolution, goals, components, and organizational approaches of prison industries.
Abstract
The first chapter traces the evolution of prison industries from the use of inmate labor and workhouses of 14th century England to the present. The next chapter examines offender-based, institutional, and societal goals of prison industries and delineates the conflicts arising from the multiplicity of goals. Elements of prison industry operations then are examined in three major areas: (1) organizational structure, personnel, financial management, and marketing; (2) production and safety, workforce selection and supervision, and inmate compensation and incentives; and (3) private sector involvement and relationship of prison industries to other correctional programs. Each of these elements is illustrated by exemplary State programs. The fourth chapter provides case studies of two integrated, but differing, organizational approaches for prison industries. The first portrays the issues and problems in integrating the requisite operational elements into Illinois' existing statewide program. The second documents the legislated transfer of prison industry from the Florida Department of Corrections to an independent, quasi-governmental nonprofit corporation. The final chapter recommends steps needed to increase the effectiveness of steps needed to increase the effectiveness of prison industries. Chapter notes, survey summary, and an index.