Corrections in the Year 2012: Prospects for Positive Change (From State of Corrections: Proceedings of ACA Annual Conferences, 1989, P 4-7, 1990, Ann Dargis, ed. -- See NCJ-122583)

• NCJ Number: 122585
• Author(s): G Beto
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 4 pages
• Sale Source: American Correctional Association
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

If real reform is to occur in the criminal justice system in the future, citizens and their legislative representatives must view the system comprehensively, beginning with police, and continuing through detention, prosecution, adjudication, probation, imprisonment, and parole.

Abstract

However, in the year 2012, society will continue to be ambivalent regarding the purpose of correctional agencies and institutions. Despite these attitudes, prisons can be lawful, safe, industrious, and hopeful without significant changes in the law or increases in funding. Competent administrators can make jails and prisons safe for both inmates and staff. In addition, imprisonment should habituate all inmates to work experiences that are characterized by quality and production control, realistic staffing, modern equipment, and a work schedule close to that of the community. By the year 2012, prisons also need to provide superior educational programs ranging from literacy classes through college degrees. Sentencing practices that destroy the hope of release should also be changed. These and other positive changes will result from the emulation of individual efforts rather than from the resolutions passed by professional organizations.