The Rising Cost of Incarceration
The Rising Cost of Incarceration
Michael Horn
Faulkner University
Courts
MJA 5360
Dr. Monica E. Jayroe
April 17, 2013
Abstract
The rising cost of overcrowded corrections and potential solutions are discussed. Alternatives to incarcerations such as probation, house arrest and fines are just a few of the topics explored. Understanding the problems with the system will help to alleviate the cost along with the correct level of justice associated with crime.
A State has a limited amount of funds to accomplish the work that needs to be done. The work includes public safety needs like police and fire, road building and maintenance, setting laws, and corrections to name only a few. Some of these services could be from State money or could be from local jurisdiction funds. This money that funds the many projects throughout a State and local government is generated from taxes that each citizen pays. If the tax payer feels the government should provide more services then the citizen would probably be in favor of raising taxes to accommodate the additional services. It could be argued that most tax payers would disagree and demand lower taxes which would in turn create fewer services. The decision would need to be made on which services should be eliminated or cut so the average citizen can pay less tax. Most people would probably agree that police and fire need not be cut, but services to prisons and corrections would not stand on the safe ground. The cry for retribution and punishment would be heard and less about programs to help reintegrate the offender. This is the mindset the corrections system must fight against and educate the public on the need for more services and resources to make the system work. By educating the public and the legislature that corrections does not want to let out all the criminals and not hold them accountable, but that every offender in the system does not need to serve a life sentence. The goal is for the time to
Michael Horn
Faulkner University
Courts
MJA 5360
Dr. Monica E. Jayroe
April 17, 2013
Abstract
The rising cost of overcrowded corrections and potential solutions are discussed. Alternatives to incarcerations such as probation, house arrest and fines are just a few of the topics explored. Understanding the problems with the system will help to alleviate the cost along with the correct level of justice associated with crime.
A State has a limited amount of funds to accomplish the work that needs to be done. The work includes public safety needs like police and fire, road building and maintenance, setting laws, and corrections to name only a few. Some of these services could be from State money or could be from local jurisdiction funds. This money that funds the many projects throughout a State and local government is generated from taxes that each citizen pays. If the tax payer feels the government should provide more services then the citizen would probably be in favor of raising taxes to accommodate the additional services. It could be argued that most tax payers would disagree and demand lower taxes which would in turn create fewer services. The decision would need to be made on which services should be eliminated or cut so the average citizen can pay less tax. Most people would probably agree that police and fire need not be cut, but services to prisons and corrections would not stand on the safe ground. The cry for retribution and punishment would be heard and less about programs to help reintegrate the offender. This is the mindset the corrections system must fight against and educate the public on the need for more services and resources to make the system work. By educating the public and the legislature that corrections does not want to let out all the criminals and not hold them accountable, but that every offender in the system does not need to serve a life sentence. The goal is for the time to