NCJ Number
191685
Date Published
2001
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This report examined the present problems of prisoner reentry and compared them to the past.
Abstract
Over the years, the number of prisoners released as well as the size of the parole population has increased, while the general population growth rate has declined. Part of the problem is due to insufficient funding for the supervision of parolees. The problem is compounded by the fact that most of the inmates who are currently reentering society are more violent and have failed in previous parole programs. Many have not participated in programs designed specifically to help in the reentry process itself. Furthermore, many of these inmates have served such long sentences that they have few outside ties and, therefore, no one to turn to for help. Changes in the economy and welfare system make matters more difficult. Even though prisoner reentry is not a problem for society at large, many small communities are affected. The author offers the following recommendations: (1) close attention should be given to repeat offenders; (2) more attention should be given to areas that receive a disproportionate number of the reentry population; (3) there should be more focus on the communities and Correctional Institutions themselves; and (4) there needs to be more of an emphasis on correctional polices in general as they clearly affect the prisoners’ readiness for reentry. Tables, graphs, and endnotes