Sentencing and Corrections

                                                        Sentencing and Corrections

    Phyllis Lovering        

AIU ONLINE

                                                        Sentencing and Corrections

   In 1790, The United States opened their first prison. In the past 200 years, we have tried

many alternatives to incarceration. These alternatives cost less than putting some one in prison.

Overcrowding of prison began to escalate in the late 80’s or early 90’s. Lawmakers were forced

to find different options for punishment. Prisons has a tendency to create a repetition of

criminal behavior, these alternatives are a way prevent criminal behavior and make  communities

 stronger. The corrections department programs provides communities with punishment options

that  as an alternative to prison. The alternative programs are cheaper alternatives to the

increased prison population, according to the cost of housing an inmate.

          The alternative options provide the criminal justice system with a wide range of optional

sentences for offenders with in their jurisdiction. The goal of alternative sentencing guidelines

 are to sentence the punishment with the severity or pettiness of the crime. the offender will be

punished and held accountable for their illegal activity. Keep in mind that these are alternative

 sentencing options are for non-violent criminal. For example drug dealers, drug users petty

 crimes. Not murders and other violent crimes.

       We do have several programs available as an alternative in jail or prison. Probation is a way

for first time offenders to serve their time and still be in the community.  Under this program

 allows the offender are required to report in to their probation officer as the officer requires

depending on the probationers case needs. The sentencing of being put on probation you will be

 given a set of requirements that you must go by. If you break any of the required conditions of

your probation you can be revokes and go to jail. These condition can have a wide range of

criteria. You could have to do community service or get counseling, you may have to take drug

test often. The conditions usually fit the crime. Keeping steady employment should be a

condition for every person on probation.

     Another option is house arrest, with house arrest a person would be confined to their home

and be required to wear an ankle monitor. When a person is place on house arrest you may leave

 for medical purposes, employment and probation related requirements. Curfew is part of home

confinement. This is when you are confined for a specific amount of time usually 6-6 or 9-7 at

night. Being away from home during the specified times or a basis for revocation.