NCJ Number
189598
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 26 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2001 Pages: 1-3,24,25
Editor(s)
Susan L. Clayton
Date Published
April 2001
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discussed the implications and recommendations with regards to the Nation’s correctional work force shortage crisis.
Abstract
This article examined the serious manpower problem facing corrections in the United States with a severe shortage of properly trained and highly motivated correctional officers to staff and manage the Nation’s correctional facilities. It was estimated that within the next 10 years there would be an estimated 25,300 openings per year for correctional officers. Two reasons were offered for the anticipated officer shortage. First, the United States relies heavily on incarceration as a means of punishment requiring more facilities and in turn, more officers. Second, competent officers are essential and there is a decreasing supply. This puts a strain on existing facilities causing high turnover and inexperienced officers being promoted prematurely. In order to responsibly manage the crisis, two directions were seen as plausible: (1) curtail reliance on incarceration as a criminal sanction, or (2) make employment improvements to ensure there are enough competent staff to run the Nation’s prisons and jails. In other words, reduce the demand or increase the supply of officers. In summary, failure to act assertively now could result in serious consequences later. References