CRJ100
Prisons and Parole
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1. Explain how 3 examples of intermediate sanctions work, including how they can be
used instead of incarceration.
Intensive Supervision Probation (ISP) serves as a high-security form of
probation for offenders who are considered too high-risk for standard supervision. Unlike
traditional probation, which might involve monthly check-ins, ISP imposes a much
stricter regimen. This typically includes multiple weekly meetings with a probation
officer, frequent and random drug testing, adherence to a strict curfew, and unannounced
visits to the offender’s home and workplace.
Electronic Monitoring, commonly known as house arrest, utilizes technology to
confine an offender to their residence or other pre-approved locations. The individual is
fitted with a tamper-proof ankle bracelet that uses GPS or radio frequency technology to
continuously track their location. If the offender leaves their designated zone during
restricted hours, a monitoring station is immediately alerted. This sanction severely
curtails an individual's liberty but allows them to maintain employment, support their
family, and fulfill financial obligations like taxes and restitution.
Day Reporting Centers (DRCs) are non-residential facilities where offenders
must report on a daily basis to participate in a highly structured schedule of services.
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While living at home, the individual checks into the DRC each day to engage in activities
aimed at addressing the root causes of their criminal behavior. This can include substance
abuse counseling, mental health treatment, job skills training, and educational courses.
2. Describe 4 ways that the "Inmate Social Code" plays a role in the daily life of
inmates.
First, the code demands unwavering loyalty to fellow inmates and enforces a strict
"code of silence." The cardinal rule is "Never rat on a con." In daily life, this means
inmates will not report rule infractions or crimes they witness to staff, creating an "us vs.
them" dynamic. This forces prisoners to resolve conflicts independently, often through
intimidation or violence, making the prison environment far more dangerous and difficult
for staff to manage.
Second, the code requires the constant projection of toughness and the
suppression of all vulnerability. The mandate to "be a man" and never show weakness
means that emotions like fear or sadness must be hidden. Any sign of vulnerability can
make an inmate a target for extortion or assault. This leads to a state of constant hyper-
vigilance and compels inmates to adopt a hardened, emotionless demeanor as a vital
survival mechanism.
Third, the code regulates the prison's informal economy. Rules such as "Don't
steal from other inmates" and "Pay your debts" are strictly enforced through the threat of
violence. While an inmate's formal property may be relatively safe, any debts incurred for
gambling or contraband must be settled promptly. The code, not the institution, serves as
the ultimate arbiter of these underground transactions, creating a parallel system of
justice.
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not be copied, further distributed, or otherwise disclosed in whole or in part, without the expressed written permission of Strayer University.
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Finally, the inmate code actively hinders rehabilitation. Because the code is
fundamentally anti-authority, it creates social penalties for those who participate in
institutional programs. An inmate who engages in therapy, education, or cooperates with
staff may be labeled as weak or a potential "snitch." This social pressure can force an
individual to choose between ensuring their immediate safety by adhering to the code and
pursuing genuine rehabilitation, creating a significant barrier to personal change.
3. Describe 3 factors that impact a parolee's chances for success once released.
First, stable employment is one of the most powerful predictors of post-release
success. A steady job provides not only financial independence but also a structured daily
routine, a sense of purpose, and immersion in a pro-social environment. However,
securing employment is a formidable challenge for parolees. Many employers are
hesitant to hire individuals with a criminal record, and a web of legal restrictions known
as "collateral consequences" can permanently bar them from entire professions, making it
incredibly difficult to find meaningful work.
Second, the presence of supportive social networks is crucial. Positive and stable
relationships with family, spouses, and non-criminal friends provide essential emotional
support, encouragement, and a vital layer of informal accountability. This network can
also offer practical assistance, such as housing or connections to job opportunities.
Conversely, parolees who return to environments characterized by negative social
influences and weak family ties are at a significantly higher risk of re-offending.
Third, access to treatment and services is essential, as a large percentage of the
prison population has underlying issues with substance abuse and mental health. These
issues are often the root causes of their criminal behavior. A parolee's success is therefore
heavily dependent on their ability to access and continue with critical treatment
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not be copied, further distributed, or otherwise disclosed in whole or in part, without the expressed written permission of Strayer University.
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programs, such as substance abuse counseling and mental health services. A failure to
secure these services upon release dramatically increases the likelihood of relapses and a
swift return to criminal activity.
Sources:
1. Siegel, Larry J. 2018. Essentials of Criminal Justice. 11th edition. Cengage Learning.
© 2024 Strayer University. All Rights Reserved. This document contains Strayer University Confidential and Proprietary information and may
not be copied, further distributed, or otherwise disclosed in whole or in part, without the expressed written permission of Strayer University.
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