Intermediate Sanctions Essay

385 Words2 Pages
Intermediate Sanctions and Community Corrections Some of the benefits to intermediate sanctions include the correctional system being able to reduce the inmate population, provide inmates with the opportunity of a second chance, offering a wide range of rehabilitation/treatment programs, and being stricter in regards to supervision of the rules. The Negative effects of intermediate sanctions are there are not enough professionals to monitor offenders who are offered intermediate sanctions. Case loads for parole/probation officers remain high increasing the chance of an offender slipping through the cracks. Another negative effect is certain individuals are incarcerated as punishment instead of being granted an intermediate sanction. Sanctions require involvement, but they also allow officers the use of discretion. Sanctions like house arrest uses a GPS tracking device which utilizes software to monitor and set the amount of restrictions the offender has. In order for sanctions to be effective, the sanction used must coincide with the individual’s crime. Intermediate sanctions are an inexpensive form of punishment to the taxpayer, and has many positive features for both the offender and the community. There are many positive benefits that community corrections offer. There are many rehabilitation options available like work release and pre-release guidance centers. Recently released inmates are able to attend community programs for substance abuse, psychological issues, GED workshops, and faith based treatment. Work release programs help to reduce tax dollars spent on welfare/healthcare and keep unemployment rates down. The negative effects of community corrections are that society, as a whole, does not want criminals living in their community, or being around their children. Many victims do not think community corrections should be a form of
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