NCJ Number
143950
Date Published
1993
Length
32 pages
Annotation
A 1992 study in Pennsylvania gathered information regarding public attitudes toward correction, with emphasis on whether people will support the use of intermediate sanctions for nonviolent offenders once they understand these sanctions and the constrains on the current system.
Abstract
Four hundred and one citizens were surveyed at six sites around the State, usually in groups of 30 to 50. During the 3-hour program, participants completed a pretest questionnaire presenting 24 hypothetical cases, watched a 20-minute video on prison overcrowding and alternative sanctions, met in discussion groups of approximately 15 people, and filled out a posttest questionnaire. The posttest included the same 24 hypothetical cases, but now offered the option of giving offenders alternative sentences in addition to prison or probation. Findings revealed that when educated about the options for sanctions, a clear majority of citizens support intermediate sanctions for an array of nonviolent offenders. The public is unhappy with the current corrections system. They would like a more effective system capable of providing graduated, rational penalties. To achieve that, a greater choices of sanctions is needed between prison and probation. Probation is seen as ineffective for many offenders, but most study participants also believed that prison does noting to change most offenders' behavior and should be used to punish violent offenders. The public wants offenders to be rehabilitated so that they will not commit more crimes. Figures and appended figures