NCJ Number
138167
Date Published
1991
Length
33 pages
Annotation
The 1991-1996 functional plan of the Florida Department of Corrections recognizes the rise in prison admissions, violent offenders, and habitual offenders and describes a three-component approach that involves community-based programs, incarceration, and release.
Abstract
Community-based programs are intended to increase diversionary program slots to divert offenders with sentences of less than 2 years, reduce caseloads for probation officers supervising sex offenders to 40:1, expand community control and the use of probation and restitution centers, and implement the Correctional Partnership Act. With respect to incarceration, goals are to modify current statutes to eliminate basic gain time and control release for murderers and sex offenders; provide 4,200 new prison beds per year over the next 5 years; enhance inmate programs in the areas of mental health, drug treatment, education, and vocational training; and develop programs for special needs offenders. Release program objectives are to supervise violent offenders for up to 2 years following release; conduct control release authority case review; and provide job placement, work release center, and community transition assistance. The functional plan identifies priority issues in Florida's correctional system, including inmate health care, inmate special needs, substance abuse treatment, academic and vocational training, public protection, community-based alternatives, correctional staff recruitment and training, and correctional management and accountability. Appendixes contain State comprehensive plan policies not addressed in priority issues and a bibliography.