NCJ Number
115625
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 51 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1989) Pages: 58,60,62
Date Published
1989
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Sanctions and correctional programs within communities provide a mechanism not only for relieving prison overcrowding, but also for enhancing correction's public image and public relations.
Abstract
Community corrections refers to sanctions in the community that operate to ensure public safety, punish criminal behavior, provide reparation to victims and the community, assist offenders' transition back into society, and control rising correctional costs. The emphasis on sanctions, however, does not preclude offenders' participation in rehabilitative services. Control and assistance goals are best met by those community programs that include intensive monitoring, gainful employment with deductions for victim restitution and court and program costs, community service, and swift and sure response to violations. Community corrections offers a range of sanctions that by their nature bring corrections professionals and the public together. With proper leadership, such programs provide a means for forming public-private partnerships than can improve public understanding of and attitudes toward corrections. In turn, improved public relations will result in a more rational and supportive climate for planning, implementing, and evaluating community corrections programs. 5 references.