NCJ Number
96395
Date Published
1983
Length
78 pages
Annotation
The 10 members of a task force formed to investigate jail space needs in the Florida counties of Orange, Osceola, and Seminole present their view on the problem.
Abstract
A businessman emphasizes that citizens will not tolerate the release of convicted criminals simply because there is no place to put them other than back on the street. Additionally, a State attorney explains that, even though the national crime rate has stabilized or is decreasing, the population and economic growth of Central Florida will require increased resources for the criminal justice system. Further, circuit judge contends that an effective jail program depends not only on proper planning, funding, and construction, but upon resourceful decisionmaking by judges and others whose policies affect jail population. A public defender argues that the most troublesome aspect of the jail space problem is that many inmates have not been convicted. A prison inspector emphasizes the need for timely planning, and a director of corrections explains his county's commitment to solving the jail space problem. Other corrections managers tie the increase in jail space needs to the accelerating general population and acknowledge the need for jail expansion based on progressive, forward-looking plans. A court alternatives department manager explains the philosophy, risks, and benefits of the programs managed by his department. Finally, a health and rehabilitative services district administrator discussed detention care for children in the three counties. Six recommendations and 22 references are included.