NCJ Number
183999
Date Published
2000
Length
128 pages
Annotation
This book details the operation of a shock incarceration program in Colorado and compares it with the experimental regime at Great Britain’s Thorn Cross Young Offender Institution, which some have termed "the British boot camp."
Abstract
Information came from the author’s observations and interviews during two site visits to the Colorado Corrections Alternative Program in Buena Vista, Colo. The prison complex that includes the boot camp is the biggest employer in the Buena Vista area, that working at the prison is desirable employment with many benefits, and that nonviolent offenders ages 18-30 are available for the boot camp. The program combines traditional corrections with military-style discipline and physical fitness, plus general education, drug and alcohol recovery programs, and classes in cognitive education and parenting. The observations suggested that the Buena Vista boot camp appears outstanding in the context of published research, although it is difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of boot camps. The Colorado program and the British program both try to reduce recidivism among youthful offenders through education and discipline. However, they differ in their organization, offender selection, and other factors. Findings suggested that changes in each program to incorporate the strengths of the other program would improve both establishments. Appended excerpts of Colorado law, chart on the addiction process, and 23 references