NCJ Number
125279
Date Published
1989
Length
111 pages
Annotation
This analysis of the criminal justice system argues that policies that focus on increasing prisons and lengthening sentences are ineffective and that biblical principles should be the basis of reforms that focus on restitution and community service for nonviolent offenders.
Abstract
The authors are a former Federal official who was convicted and sentenced to prison and an attorney who has served clients from inner cities. They argue that prisons fail to provide either punishment or rehabilitation; instead, they train inmates to become more successful criminals upon release. In contrast, Christian principles suggest community-based alternatives that are both more effective and less expensive. In addition, victims currently are often further victimized by an indifferent, impersonal criminal justice system. Instead of the current procedures, victims should have a significant role in the justice process, repayment from their offenders, and support from their communities. Case examples and notes.