Politics of Jail Overcrowding: Public Attitudes and Official Policies (From American Jails: Public Policy Issues, P 131-147, 1991, Joel A Thompson and G Larry Mays, eds. -- See NCJ-165482)

• NCJ Number: 165490
• Author(s): W N Welsh; M C Leone; P T Kinkade; H N Pontell
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 17 pages
• Sale Source: Nelson-Hall Publishers
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This analysis of jail overcrowding, using data drawn largely from Orange County, Calif., underscores the complexity of interactions among public opinion, official policies, and jail overcrowding.

Abstract

In examining interactions among public opinion, penal policies, and jail overcrowding, the study used an "elite interview" methodology. Key policymakers' perceptions are crucial determinants of how policies actually are formulated, initiated, and implemented by those in positions of power. Sampling of officials, therefore, was based on the knowledge of key actors either employed in the county criminal justice system or directly involved in policy decisions that affect county jails. The study interviewed officials in the sheriff's department (n=2), judges and court officials (n=9), prosecutors (n=4), public defenders (n=2), county board of supervisors and aides (n=7), probation officials (n=6), local police chiefs (n=18), one professional corrections consultant, and State legislators directly involved in jail and prison issues (n=15). Interview questions were based on jail and prison literature reviews, technical reports, newspapers, and archival data. Questions focused on perceived causes and effects of jail overcrowding as well as on potential solutions. Four major policy recommendations were developed from the interview findings. First, policymakers should more aggressively use media and public information resources to present correctional problems and potential solutions to the public, rather than attempting to tailor policy to their perception of public opinion. Second, policymakers should be more sensitive to the complexity of public opinion; the public holds attitudes that are less punitive and more diverse than commonly acknowledged. Third, a comprehensive needs assessment should be done for the particular jurisdiction under consideration. Finally, if a competent and thorough jail needs assessment determines that increased institutional capacity is needed, then various types of jail construction should be explored.