NCJ Number
159932
Date Published
1996
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Unrestricted television viewing by inmates may encourage future criminal activity because certain television shows may teach gang members and others techniques that hone their criminal skills and help them elude police.
Abstract
Some inmates are intrigued by television shows like "America's Most Wanted" and are able to pick up possible pointers on how to commit crime by watching these shows. Many inmates have been convicted of violent crimes, and unrestricted television viewing may present a glamorized view of crime and the drug trade. At the Maryland State Penitentiary, every inmate is allowed to have a television as part of his personal property. In addition, the institution provides two televisions in the recreation area of housing units where inmates gather. One television is for sports, and the other is for movies and network shows. When men are locked in their cells, they freely watch whatever they want. The medical community has documented a direct link between television violence and criminal behavior by viewers. Certain television shows depict the rewards of a life of crime and drug dealing as financially profitable and therefore have a significant effect on inmates. Instead of permitting inmates to watch television without restriction, efforts should be made to educate and train them for a future productive life.