NCJ Number
75925
Date Published
1977
Length
152 pages
Annotation
The population of 1,740 inmates incarcerated in Alberta correctional institutions (Canada) on March 31, 1977, is described; sociodemographic background and inmate characteristics are outlined.
Abstract
Special attention is given to the characteristics of young offenders, the sentenced native population, short-term inmates, fine defaulters, and remanded inmates. The sociodemographic variables under consideration include age, education, occupation, native status, forwarding address, and alcohol use, and the inmate-related characteristics analyzed included the most serious sentence offense, length of the aggregate sentence, the number of commitments, the reason for incarceration, and the location within the institutional setting. Also considered were the security rating, the number of days remaining under sentence, and the length of time on remand. Comparisons were made to the findings to two previous surveys conducted in 1976. In summary, a total of 1,222 inmates had been sentenced by March 31, and about 65 percent were 25 years of age or younger. A low level of educational attainment and a lack of occupational skills characterized the sentenced inmate population. One-third were native, and more than one-quarter reported a problem with alcohol use. The majority were incarcerated on property offenses, had aggregate sentences of less than 1 year, and had at least one previous commitment. Three-quarters of the sentenced inmates were located within the institutions themselves, and about 80 percent were classified as minimum security. Approximately 57 percent had less than 3 months remaining until their release dates. Data tables, footnotes, and graphs are provided, and appendixes contain further data and a coding manual.