NCJ Number
183964
Date Published
2000
Length
15 pages
Annotation
The sentencing reform movement has exerted a significant impact on the field of corrections, especially since "get tough" sentencing policies have contributed to unprecedented prison population growth in many jurisdictions; the emphasis on tailoring punishment almost exclusively to the nature of the crime has devalued concerns with rehabilitation and treatment.
Abstract
Sentencing reform is considered in relation to three correctional policy issues that must be addressed in the decade ahead: (1) whether sentencing policy should be linked to the management of correctional resources (available prison capacity); (2) whether concern for rehabilitation should be integrated in a sentencing model that emphasizes just deserts; and (3) whether parole boards should be retained and their role in a structured sentencing system. A review of past and present sentencing reform efforts indicates the sentencing reform movement has resulted in greater determinacy and accountability with respect to decision-making. The attempt to introduce greater rationality and structure in sentencing practices, however, has not always been successful, as evidenced by the number of jurisdictions in which sentencing commissions have not been able to develop presumptive sentencing guidelines. Even so, the framework and principles established under the auspices of sentencing reform will continue to exert a major influence on future sentencing innovations. Moreover, if the emphasis has thus far been on "in/out" decisions with respect to imprisonment, the focus will eventually come to include how to structure sentencing for the vast majority of offenders who receive non-prison terms. 45 references and 5 notes