NCJ Number
83505
Date Published
1982
Length
60 pages
Annotation
Increases in crime rates, conviction rates, and greater use of determinate sentencing have caused severe overcrowding in Illinois prisons.
Abstract
The problem is compounded by the poor physical condition of most State prisons. Renovation projects, the addition of community-based correctional facilities, and the construction of two new prisons have not kept pace with the increasing number of incarcerations. Although alternative-approach facilities (as opposed to the more traditional penitentiaries) are more acceptable to the Federal courts and the Federal Government, the design and construction of such facilities will not ensure security, prevent escapes, or rehabilitate offenders without a well-trained staff. These prisons require special programs and cell clustering, both of which necessitate more staff for surveillance. Thus, total costs for facility operation must be carefully assessed. Proponents of alternative practices prison design emphasize the need for alternatives to incarceration and the need for assessment of the criminal justice system itself. Altered sentencing statutes, enhanced judicial discretion, and sentencing options should be investigated. Two tables, 14 figures, 2 appendixes of related material, and 25 references are included.