First, describe how the goals of sentencing may lead to specific programs and sentencing structures. In your analysis, include each of the following:
Identify the five goals of sentencing. Name and define each goal.
Describe how prison programs can foster rehabilitation.
Describe some of the different goals of sentencing demonstrated through different programs and sentencing structures.
Next, you will explain the impact of sentencing structures. Choose two of the following to explain the impact(s) of sentencing structures:
Determinate and indeterminate
Felonies vs. misdemeanors
Mandatory minimums
Three strikes law
Then, describe how felony convictions create an unintended “invisible punishment.” Be sure to address the following areas of impact that persons convicted of felonies might face upon release:
Civil liberty restrictions
Private sector restrictions
Structure and Logistics of Correctional Facilities
In the next part of your statement of need, use research as you consider the organizational structure and logistical considerations of correctional facilities.
First, describe the processing of offenders in correctional facilities. Be sure to address each of the following:
The prisoner intake process
Application of the Fourth Amendment to searches and seizures in corrections
Transitional services and release planning
Next, describe the physical and organizational structure of correctional facilities. Be sure to address each of the following:
The different jurisdictions of correctional institutions, including:
Prisons and jails
Federal, state, local
The impact of different types of sanctions on corrections facilities
The physical layout of a corrections structure and its impact on corrections processes
Then, analyze the impact of age-related diversity on correctional facilities. Be sure to address each of the following:
The impact on facilities
The impact on adjudication, including:
Juvenile or adult
The impact of an aging prison population on the correctional system. You may consider describing the following:
Medical care
Financial considerations
Systemic Issues
In the last part of your statement of need, you will use research as you analyze systemic issues that affect incarceration.
First, analyze the impact of diversity in prisons.
Address past policies and practices related to the response to increased diversity in corrections. Consider addressing some of the following:
Mental health issues
Language and cultural issues
Issues in women’s prisons
LGBTQ issues
Next, explain the rise of incarceration rates and strategies to reduce them. Select two of the following events or criminal justice areas to focus on in your explanation:
War on Drugs
Parole/probation violations
Pre-trial detention
Then, describe factor(s) that impact prison culture. Select one or two of the following factors to include in your description:
Long-term incarceration rates
Two models of inmate behavior
Sexual violence in prisons (Eighth Amendment)
Relevant legislation
Court ruling(s)
