Alternatives To Incarceration

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Alternatives to Incarceration: Problem Analysis Alternatives to Incarceration: Problem Analysis The United States has had a significant problem with overcrowding in the prisons and problems with certain programs in the criminal justice system. Because of the lack of funding in many areas, the programs available to help an offender are few. Specialized treatment and services are available, but not at the rate necessary. The cost to build new jails and prisons has increased and in many instances has a strong affect on the state or local government. One of the solutions to the ever-growing problem in the criminal justice system can be in the area of sentencing. State and local systems can develop appropriate programs that can be put in place as alternatives to incarceration. In many instances, “there are increased calls – in fact demands – for local officials to devise alternatives to incarceration (ATI) strategies and programs while at the same time maintain public safety” (The Regional Institute, 2007, p. 9). The development of alternative strategies can allow the system to function at a higher level while decreasing the inmate population and working to help an offender make a positive change for the future. The criminal justice system has a need for alternative to incarceration programs in order to help with the overcrowding and the task of reforming offenders at any level. Alternatives to Incarceration The criminal justice system has become an area of concern in many states. Because of the jail overcrowding and costs to the people, alternative programs are being used for offenders. Alternative to incarceration programs (ATI’s), are “designed to reduce reliance on pretrial detention and/or incarceration and operate in a manner consistent with public safety” (New York State, n.d., para. 2). Some of the programs are run by private sectors and others government

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