Throughout the course, you have been considering how the general community and the “will of the people” influence the criminal justice policy. You applied this concept to law enforcement and now will turn to corrections. As you have seen, elected officials are the primary connection between the populace and the government. By enacting laws, politicians translate the wishes of the voters into policy. For this discussion:
- Describe the laws passed in the 1990s that relate to corrections and sentencing. What are the three changes that had the effect of keeping offenders incarcerated for longer periods of time, and for more crimes?
- Analyze at least five effects these “get tough” policies have had. Are these negative effects are an acceptable price to pay for lower crime rates?
- Can these “get tough” policies work alongside rehabilitation efforts? Why or why not?
Answer preview
The increase in incarceration had effects on health. Those incarcerated are marginalized and are burdened with diseases. The incarcerated harbor several mental issues and they bring them back to the community after serving their terms. Health is a problem in prisons since prisoners are usually unwilling to participate in health activities. The increase in incarceration rates had effects on employment and earnings. Upon serving their terms, the ex-convicts find it very difficult to secure employment opportunities. The ex-convicts find it difficult to obtain jobs due to discrimination, stigma and the long times’ intakes to reintegrate with the society. Incarceration also had effects on families and children. The increase in incarceration has led to more and more families having to spend time away from their kin.
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