NCJ Number
142786
Date Published
1993
Length
130 pages
Annotation
The Illinois Task Force on Crime and Corrections proposes to reduce prison overcrowding in State institutions in four primary ways: by reducing recidivism, by reducing initial entry into prison, by reducing long-term costs, and by reducing the stockpile of inmates.
Abstract
The task force found that prison overcrowding can be attributed to increases in drug-related and violent crimes, the high recidivism rate, and longer sentences. The severe level of prison overcrowding in Illinois has resulted in overwhelming security problems throughout the system, problems in providing services and programs to inmates, exacerbated health problems, and potential court intervention. The recommendations offered here are designed as a coherent plan for attacking the prison crowding crisis and strengthening the system for the future. Recommended programs to reduce recidivism include earned-time credit, substance abuse treatment, expanded shock incarceration, electronic detention, and a continuum of punishment-oriented, community-based sanctions. Recommended improvements to correctional resources focus on increased capacity, correctional industries, programs for inmates with special needs, management of violent inmates, and use of surplus Federal property. The task force also addresses possible sentencing modifications.