Southern New Hampshire University
CJ-210 The U.S. Correctional System
Module 4 Notes
Structure of Corrections Facilities
Corrections Today, Chapter 6
Types of Correctional Facilities
What Prisons Look Like
Corrections Today, Chapter 12
Living on Death Row
What are the differences between state prisons and federal prisons?
Proponents of private operators contend that they run prisons more effectively and at less cost
than public agencies. They claim they can do this because privatization:
Increases the capacity of prisons because private corporations can build prisons more
quickly.
Responds with greater flexibility to correctional needs by cutting red tape.
Attracts employees who are younger and more enthusiastic than public employees.
Brings fresh ideas into the correctional system.
In contrast, critics of private prisons argue that private prisons cannot be compared to federal or
state prisons because they:
May build their facilities more quickly but too often the quality of the facilities leaves
much to be desired.
Have no lower and probably higher rates of recidivism.
Have higher rates of inmate misconduct.
Provide inferior services to inmates compared to federal and state facilities.
Offer inadequate compensation to staff, who at times barely make more than minimum
wage.
Pose ethical and moral issues that are yet to be resolved.
What are the security classifications for correctional institutions?
1. Minimum Security Prisons
