NCJ Number
212787
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Dated: Spring 2005 Pages: 79-96
Date Published
2005
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the uniting of correctional philosophies from countries that experience lower rates of incarceration (reentry partnership initiatives) as an approach to offender reentry in the United States.
Abstract
Research indicates that the “get tough on crime” era in the United States has systematically whittled away the extensive measures that were previously in place to prepare inmates for release from correctional institutions. The renewed focus on helping offenders successfully reenter their communities can be viewed as an effort to stem the growing tide of offenders so that the current system remains functional. Reentry initiatives have been undertaken with the intent to reduce successfully the number of former inmates returning to prison. In looking at correctional models to determine what works, foreign correctional practices have viewed the successful reintegration of offenders as the responsibility of the entire system as well as agencies and networks outside the criminal justice system. A system-wide approach certainly can be imported and modified to address the problems unique to recidivism in the United States. This paper outlines key points in the reentry process and how the many actors, such as police, courts, probation officers, substance abuse counselors, and medical providers can partner to implement an integrated model of offender reintegration in the United States. It addresses the Reentry Partnership Initiatives (RPIs) recently implemented in the United States. The RPI requires key criminal justice system actors to redefine their role and responsibility in the area of reentry and to focus on the partnership’s role in improving public safety. References