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HOME INCARCERATION: AN ALTERNATIVE TO JAIL OVERCROWDING

NCJ Number
141434
Journal
Large Jails Network Bulletin Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Dated: (August 1989) Pages: 19
Author(s)
J Payne
Date Published
1989
Length
1 page
Annotation
Home incarceration represents one approach adopted in Jefferson County, Kentucky, to reduce jail overcrowding; a computer calls the offender at home or at work, and correctional officers also make three visual checks weekly.
Abstract
During the weekly checks, individuals are given an Alco-sensor test to determine if they have been drinking. Offenders found in violation are returned to jail and are placed on the docket of the judge who sentenced them to home incarceration. The judge then determines whether they can be returned to the program or spend their remaining sentence in jail. Home incarceration costs $7.94 per day, based on an average of 100 participants, in contrast to $17.81 per day for a work release inmate in a minimum custody institution. Costs of home incarceration pay for a staff of one captain, one sergeant, eight officers, and three clerks. Clerks monitor the equipment, perform secretarial duties, demonstrate the equipment to new participants, and collect weekly fees from participants. Officers verify participant compliance with program regulations, have the power to arrest violators, and make a minimum of two home checks per week.