NCJ Number
128651
Date Published
1990
Length
63 pages
Annotation
Public safety and operational highlights of the Patuxent Institution in Jessup, Maryland, are reviewed for fiscal year 1990, and inmate services provided to the community are noted.
Abstract
Patuxent is the only correctional facility in Maryland whose legislative mandate includes offender treatment and rehabilitation as a means to protect the public from further criminal victimization. Further, the institution is the only coed correctional facility in the State. During 1990, efforts were made to meet public safety needs of the community and treatment needs of the inmate population. The type of inmate accepted for treatment was re-evaluated, with three subgroups of inmates targeted for admission: mentally retarded, chronically mentally disordered, and chronic youthful offenders. The level of supervision provided to clinical staff was increased to strengthen the inhouse stage of the treatment program. In addition, supervision practices during conditional release were improved to enhance public protection. The institution plans to strengthen its substance abuse treatment services in recognition of the link between drug and alcohol abuse and crime. Institutionally, three new associate directors have been appointed, and efforts are being increased to recruit minority mental health professionals. Overcrowding is being dealt with by providing temporary housing and other services for an increased number of inmates. A 48-cell housing unit for female offenders has been completed, and fixed asset and materials inventories have been computerized. Inmates are encouraged to provide community services including services to the blind and physically handicapped, assistance to help youth avoid criminal activity, and participation in a walkathon to benefit a black college fund. An appendix contains supplemental data on the institution's operating costs, demographic and offense characteristics of inmates, conventional release, and parolees. 11 tables