NCJ Number
143120
Date Published
1992
Length
20 pages
Annotation
Analysis of Texas sentencing data using a computer simulation model revealed that the recommendation of the Texas Punishment Standards Commission to create a fourth- degree felony will divert to community corrections punishments about 36 percent of the offenders who are currently sentenced to prison.
Abstract
The study used scientifically collected data from a previous study and the JUSTICE II model, a new version of the simulation model designed for the commission. Results also revealed that the offenses of another approximately 7 percent of the offenders currently sentenced to prison will be classified as misdemeanors under the proposed changes. However, the parole release system will be abolished; offenders will serve 80 percent of their sentences in the revised punishment ranges, increasing the time spent in prison for incarcerated offenders. The proposed system will be implemented January 1, 1994. Its immediate effect will be to reduce the backlog of State inmates in county jails. However, the backlog will increase to 31,653 in August 1998, but this level is lower than the "status quo" level of 35,123. In addition, the new system will increase the number of felony offenders on probation supervision and reduce the number on parole supervision. Overall, more offenders will be incarcerated in State jails, in the jail backlog, in prison, and in drug treatment facilities under the proposal than under the status quo. Figures and tables