NCJ Number
177663
Date Published
1990
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This report presents and applies an original method of developing profiles of the structure of unconvicted inmate (remand) populations in Australia to determine the most appropriate strategy to reduce remand numbers in each jurisdiction.
Abstract
Data from corrections statistics at the Australian Institute of Criminology and from the most recent national prison census were used to examine differences between jurisdictions in the use of remand, statistical data indicating increased use of remand, and the structure of remand populations in terms of intake numbers and length of stay. Remand rates for all jurisdictions except Tasmania have increased markedly in the past decade or more. The four jurisdictions of the Northern Territory, New South Wales, South Australia, and Western Australia seem to make much greater use of remand than do the other jurisdictions. The average number of remand prisoners has more than doubled in the last 12 years. As of June 30, 1990, 4.3 percent of the remandees had served more than 1 years; 13.3 percent had served 6-12 months. Jurisdictions varied greatly in intake rates and time served. Findings suggested that the two separate strategies that can reduce remand populations include legislation or education to encourage magistrates and judges to order remand as little as possible and to increase the efficiency of the court system. Figures, tables, and 3 references