Conflict and Change in a State Correctional System: A Case Study in Program Implementation

• NCJ Number: 127933
• Journal: Criminal Justice Policy Review Volume: 3 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1989) Pages: 133-148
• Author(s): S G Bazemore; B R West
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 16 pages
• Grant Number(s): 86-JS-CX-KO38
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS.

Annotation

Restitution, implemented as a component of an early release, minimum security pre-release, or parole alternative is discussed. A case study is presented to document the evolution of one such program, and what was learned in the process.

Abstract

Restitution is considered a possible alternative to overcrowding in prisons. In 1985, the California Youth Authority formed working groups to redefine the Youth Authority's mission to include a concern with victims and to develop policies to enable the collection of financial restitution. Restitution projects were attempted in both institutional and parole settings. The Stockton pilot project is the case study analyzed. The pilot project was a failure, and the various reasons are discussed. A major implication for program development and policy change is that apparent reforms may simply be used to strengthen a punitive agenda unless new programs replace current practices, rather than incorporate existing sanctions. 8 notes and 38 references (Author abstract modified)