Corrections and Sentencing:
Then and Now
Phillip J. Torres
Saint Leo University
CRJ-520 Contemporary Issues Correction
Instructor: David Rhinehart
January 12, 2014
Abstract
As we approach the 21st Century, it is evident that many changes have occurred in how business is done as it relates to corrections and sentencing (Mackenzie, 2001). According to MacKenzie, (2001) the overall community correction population has experience drastic growth since the 1930s and as a result, a number of necessary changes in various areas (i.e., philosophies, approaches, practices, laws, etc.), have been made to accommodate this growth. Understanding the factors (i.e., time period, race, genders, ethnicity, politics, nature of crimes, crime rates, incarceration rates, etc.,) that are responsible for this growth hasn’t only been insightful, but has served as a justification for many of these changes. Overall, the safety of the public continues to serve as the primary goal in the areas of corrections and sentencing, therefore seeking out better ways in responding those areas or factors that affect the increase in the growth within the community corrections population has become a life-long goal. The idea of ignoring the need for change or dismissing the seriousness or implications of the growing community corrections population on safety of the public is unimaginable.
Sentencing and corrections have continued to be the source of great debate (Clear, Cole & Reisig, 2011). Transparency sentencing and corrections has continued to increase due to pressures from political and societal influences for a number of reasons which include changes in philosophies (Clear, Cole & Reisig, 2011). The transition from philosophies or practices implemented began to take form most notably in the development of three correctional models (i.e., medical, community, crime control, etc.) implemented in response to crime (Clear, Cole & Reisig, 2011). These models serve as the...