NCJ Number
126070
Date Published
1989
Length
104 pages
Annotation
This study explored Alabamians' views about prison overcrowding and alternative sentences, including how people decided which alternative was best in specific cases.
Abstract
In 1987 and 1988, a sample of approximately 400 adult Alabama residents representing a demographic cross-section of the State met in small groups in various locations throughout the State. Respondents completed a pretest questionnaire that required them to select either probation or prison for offenders in 23 hypothetical criminal cases. Respondents then viewed a video that described the problem of prison overcrowding and five "generic" alternative sentences: strict probation, strict probation plus restitution, strict probation plus community service, house arrest, and boot camp. The video presented arguments for and against the use of alternatives. After viewing the video, respondents met in small discussion groups led by a staff member. A posttest questionnaire asked respondents to consider sentences for the same cases as in the pretest, with the addition of the five alternatives as sentencing options. In the pretest, respondents chose prison for 18 of the 23 offenders, but on the posttest they chose only 4 for prison. Respondents tended to prefer the more expensive alternatives and those that involved work and discipline for offenders. Most respondents were more concerned about public safety than prison overcrowding, and they opposed increased spending to address prison overcrowding. Respondents believed in stiff penalties for violations of the conditions of alternative sentences. 27 tables.