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Corrections in Context: Policy Options for Control of Intake, Length of Stay and System Capacity in West Virginia

NCJ Number
149152
Author(s)
R A Ball
Date Published
1991
Length
70 pages
Annotation
This report focuses on methods of dealing effectively with the increasing inmate populations and prison overcrowding in West Virginia and the country.
Abstract
The policy options are grouped into three categories: (1) alternatives for controlling prison intake, (2) possibilities for reducing the average length of stay in correctional facilities, and (3) means for improving the capacity of the correctional system. The analysis notes that trends in the overall crime rate, demographic shifts, and economic pressures cannot together account for the enormous increase in the prison populations. Instead, the crucial factor is criminal justice policy itself. Thus, the correctional problem is more amenable to solution than are many others facing West Virginia and the Nation. Many policy options already in place in other States offer strategies for approaching correctional problems. Many of these alternatives have no cost. Many would save money in the short run, and most seem likely to save money in the long run. Alternatives to institutionalization for nonviolent offenders, options for reducing the length of stay in correctional facilities, and more efficient use of the current capacity would all address the problems. Given the recent success related to developing strategies for replacing the Moundsville penitentiary, West Virginia may wish to consider creating a task force to make a comprehensive review of criminal justice policy and its impacts on the correctional system. 117 references