NCJ Number
100023
Date Published
1985
Length
75 pages
Annotation
This paper considers the advantages and disadvantages of corrections privatization, discusses Canada's experience with it, identifies corrections areas appropriate for successful privatization, and develops preliminary guidelines for implementing corrections privatization.
Abstract
Information was obtained largely from interviews with corrections officials in various regions of Canada, who provided documentation on current and planned privatization efforts. Their documentation was reviewed along with other published literature. An overview considers the impetus toward privatization in government services in general and the trend toward correctional services privatization in Canada and the United States. Many facets of privatization are illustrated using examples of organizations providing either contract or volunteer services. Following brief descriptions of 11 corrections privatization models, political, administrative, legal, financial, and inmate issues are considered. A review of Canada's experience with correctional privatization focuses on administration; communications; education, training, and employment; finance; health services; offender programs; security; and technical services. The United States' experience with correctional privatization is also outlined. After reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of privatization, the report concludes that the Correctional Service of Canada should cautiously pursue its use in selected areas, with attention to ensuring inmate security and public protection. Appendixes contain cost methodology, data on U.S. privatized prisons, and a work plan for phase II of this project. 13 references.