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Perpetual Incarceration Machine: Structural Impediments to Postprison Success

NCJ Number
173246
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Dated: February 1997 Pages: 4-22
Author(s)
S C Richards; R S Jones
Date Published
1997
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This article examines structural impediments that contribute to parole failure and recidivism.
Abstract
The prison system is a perpetual incarceration machine growing on failure. Prisoners exit prison with few material resources and many obligations. Upon arrival at work release centers they are subjected to the demands of "collection counselors". They complain about deduction from their employment checks, including restitution, court costs, fees for public defenders, and rent for work release beds. The correctional system perpetuates itself: failures in work release, probation, and parole account for the majority of new prison admissions. A study of impediments to parole success, defined as legal and economic barriers to prisoner reentry into the community, and which contribute to recidivism, include: (1) problems securing employment; (2) imposition of court fees and fines, restitution, lawyer bills, and child support; (3) an accumulation of various unpaid consumer bills; (4) the relative poverty of released prisoners; and (5) the loss of civil rights and collateral consequences of criminal convictions. The article recommends some effective prison release programs. References