NCJ Number
113585
Date Published
1988
Length
8 pages
Annotation
A 1983 survey of 44 State commissioners of corrections and 106 wardens addressed background characteristics, criminal justice system problems, prison crowding, operations, and personnel issues.
Abstract
Findings show a consensus among commissioners and wardens on their critical problems. Prison crowding and staff shortages continue to be the two most pressing problems in the State correctional systems. Approximately one-third of the commissioners stated that their systems are operating at more than 120 percent capacity; only 14 percent are operating at less than 95 percent of capacity. Crowding is more severe in the Northeast and Western States than in the rest of the Nation. Solutions to the crowding problems suggested by the commissioners and wardens include increasing the number of halfway house beds, providing intensive parole, using electronic home supervision, and new construction and renovation of facilities. Some of the staff needs are mental health and medical services, counseling, security, and clerical assistance. The need for additional security staff is greatest in systems under court order for conditions of confinement. The main recruitment problems are locating qualified professional staff and a shortage of qualified minority applicants. Staff "burnout" is the most often reported factor in employee retention and turnover. 12 exhibits and 4 notes