NCJ Number
157962
Date Published
1995
Length
512 pages
Annotation
This study argues that the relaxing of the correctional rules for German juveniles benefits both offenders and the correctional system.
Abstract
Relaxation in the execution of juvenile sentences such as supervised work outside the prison, supervised and unsupervised leaves, and vacations from prison have become a routine part of prison life; nevertheless, the public still reacts with alarm when they learn about open prisons or some spectacular abuse of the new privileges. Empirical studies suggest, however, that such alarm is unjustified and that eligible juveniles are carefully chosen. As a result, only very few juveniles abuse their privileges by committing new crimes or escaping from prison. At the same time, both prison personnel and inmates report an improved prison climate as a result of the relaxed rules. So far the relaxed rules have shown neither a positive nor negative effect on recidivism rates. In conclusion, the study argues that the privileges might even be extended to more juvenile inmates. Numerous statistical charts are appended. 19 pages of references