NCJ Number
105028
Date Published
1986
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the increasing role of privately owned and run prisons in the United States in terms of prison reform and presents the historical, economical, political, and philosophical significance.
Abstract
Arguments for and against the privatization of corrections are examined. Arguments in favor of private prisons are that they would be more cost-effective, use the latest technology and management techniques, and would increase the production and quality of prison-made goods transforming prisons into factories. Those individuals against private prisons argue that it would pose a threat on public employee union jobs, increase the number of prisoners, and will minimize inmate civil rights. Because the data currently available are noncomprehensive, valid comparisons of public versus private-sector correctional performance cannot be made. While history shows the combination of prison and profits to be volatile, it is believed that the corrections profession would not permit inhumane treatment of prisoners. Economics show that whether the correctional institution is publicly or privately owned does not determine whether it will be efficiently and properly run. The combination of good management and employees, sufficient resources, and the right conditions make for a qood prison. Politically, it is estimated that many of the public prison problems, such as the conflicting political pressures, will be shared by private prisons who will have to learn to deal with direct governmental regulation. It is concluded that the issue of public versus private correctional management is secondary to the issue of competent management. 9 references.