NCJ Number
96960
Date Published
1985
Length
133 pages
Annotation
Programs to bring about reconciliation between victims and offenders and to provide restitution are advocated, using the experiences of Indiana's Prisoner and Community Together (PACT) program as an illustration.
Abstract
An examination of crime and punishment in the United States focuses on how 'law and order' advocates exaggerate the risks of crime and on how those oriented to offenders' needs tend to dismiss the reality of crime and its impacts on victims. A discussion of the influence of the Judeo-Christian heritage, particularly Christian teachings, argues that the biblical directive of an 'eye for an eye' should be considered a call for proportionality rather than a call for harsh punishment. The need for alternatives to institutionalization is also discussed, with reference to the problem of prison crowding. A description of PACT explains its advocacy of bringing the victim, offender, and society together through a holistic system of justice and reconciliation. The victim and offender come together with a mediator, each trying to understand and deal with the other as human beings. The process ends when an appropriate form of restitution to both victim and society is agreed upon. Three program models developed by PACT are described. The need for those who believe in a Christian reconciliation process to advocate reform in criminal justice system policies is also discussed. Questions for each chapter and a resource list of organizations and print/video materials are supplied.