NCJ Number
130014
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 7 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1991) Pages: 49-59
Date Published
1991
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Advocates of privately-operated prisons and jails regard them as a solution to the problems of overcrowding and high costs which characterize corrections systems in the United States.
Abstract
This paper addresses such issues as the cost-effectiveness, the quality, and public accountability of privately-operated prisons and also examines the treatment of employees in privately-operated prisons. The experience in Florida and Tennessee is cited to show that when a rigorous requirement of cost comparisons and strict contract reviews is imposed, private contractors fail to bid. This suggests that the issue of accountability cannot be separated from the question of cost-savings. A review of the operations of privately-operated prisons and jails provides no overwhelming evidence to recommend them as an alternative to publicly-operated correctional facilities. The provision of these services by the private sector proves neither better nor less expensive. Public jurisdictions need to proceed cautiously with the privatization of prisons. 18 references (Author abstract modified)