Rtf (Rich Text Format) File Extension Reflection

¶ … rtf (Rich Text Format) file extension Reflection Paper 4 (Module/Week 7) After completing reading study week, alternative methods incarceration.

Alternative methods of incarceration: How would you reduce cost and overcrowding while maintaining a system of justice?

Concerns about prison overcrowding and the spiraling costs of incarcerating inmates, some of whom may have committed nonviolent offenses, have precipitated many states to consider alternative methods of punishment. For example, in New York, "the Nathaniel Project provides 24 months of extra-intensive supervision for felon-indicted individuals who are seriously and persistently mentally ill. The program offers comprehensive mental health and integrated substance abuse treatment, rehabilitation, case management, court advocacy and reporting, and monitored linkages to housing and social services" (Alternatives to incarceration program, 2012, NYS). Although inmates may not be legally 'insane' and are considered responsible for their actions, this program treats some of the root causes that can cause inmates to turn to a life of crime. It provides a transition from prison to other supportive services and is designed to reduce the risks of recidivism.

Similarly, for inmates convicted of drug-related offenses, inmates may be sent to rehabilitation programs (either inpatient or outpatient) as a requirement of their sentencing, versus standard jail time. New Jersey has created a Drug Court system which recognizes that substance abuse plays a major factor in criminal activity and that longer prison sentences will not necessarily treat the root causes of nonviolent drug users' behaviors. "Drug court programs are rigorous, requiring intensive supervision based on frequent drug testing and court appearances, along with tightly structured regimens of treatment and recovery services" (Adult drug court programs, 2012, New Jersey Courts).

Faith-based prison ministries and prison education programs have also been instrumental in encouraging inmates to find structure to their lives through education and fostering a sense of obligation to others. Gaining a sense of a connection to the community outside of the world of crime is a cornerstone of many alternative sentencing programs, such as the Day Custody Program (DCP) in which participants report to a "secure DOC facility each day where they perform community service and receive substance abuse education, counseling, and referrals to treatment providers. The program thereby offers an alternative that saves taxpayers the costs of incarceration while providing participants with services that address the underlying causes of their criminal activity" (DCP, 2012, Cases). This could be considered a form of 'house arrest' in the sense that the whereabouts of participants are restricted yet prisoner education and giving back to others is a cornerstone of the program.