A correctional chain gang is defined as a group of prisoners working outside a penal facility under armed correctional supervision and wearing chains or other restraining devices to prevent escape. The article details the operations and excesses of earlier chain gangs, identifying variables that contributed to the contemporary phase that emerged in 1995. Predicated on vengeance, retributive justice, and punitiveness, the chain gang represents a devolving standard of human decency in correctional policies. In addition, the chain gang raises questions about violations of inmates' civil rights and what legitimate penal aims are being served. Future debates about chain gangs must address four empirical questions: (1) Will the chain gang lead to lessened recidivism? (2) Will the chain gang be less expensive than alternative corrections programs? (3) Is the chain gang a deterrent to crime? and (4) Are chain gangs cost-effective? Note, references, cases cited