NCJ Number
216313
Journal
Victims & Offenders Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2006 Pages: 175-192
Date Published
April 2006
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This study used semistructured interviews to obtain information on gambling in prisons from 11 sex-offender parolees who had spent at least 6 months in prison.
Abstract
Responses from the sex offenders indicate that gambling is common among sex offenders in prison. Types of gambling ranged from sports betting and various card games to placing odds on events occurring within and outside the prison. Respondents indicated their reasons for gambling included the relief from boredom, recreation, the stimulation of risk and excitement, and socializing with and acceptance by peers. According to the respondents, gambling can result in the exploitation of vulnerable inmates, and punishment for unpaid debts can be severe. Although gambling is strictly against prison rules, several of the respondents indicated that many prison officers tolerated gambling as long as it did not result in violence or victimization. The interviews were conducted at a community correctional center (halfway house) and community-based offender aftercare program in Utah. The three criteria for participation were: 1) conviction of at least one sex offense, 2) incarceration for at least 6 months, and 3) current participation in sex offender treatment at the study location. The 11 men were questioned about the prevalence of gambling in prison, why inmates gamble, the types of gambling done in prison, the prevalence of gambling among sex offenders in prison, and why sex offenders participate in prison gambling. 44 references