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State Prison Inmates

State Prison Inmates

State prisons are often described as being much more unpleasant than both county jails and federal prisons. For an individual to become a state prison inmate, he/she must be tried and convicted by a specific state court, for violating a state law. If he/she is sentences by federal court, he/she will be contained within a federal prison. 
Violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder, and assault, are usually matters of the state, and therefore, the majority of individuals responsible for committing these crimes will be tried by a state court. As a result, state prison inmates are often unmanageable and state prisons maintain a large population of violent offenders. Inmate violence is much more frequent in state prisons, and conditions are often unpleasant.
In many instances, state prison inmates are considered to be dangerous. As a result, numerous state prisons are developed to be maximum security facilities. If an individual has committed a minor offense and has been sentenced to serve a relatively short prison term, it is likely that he/she will be moved to a county jail, or a minimum security state prison. 
State prison inmates often have a history of criminal behavior and have spent time in jail before. It is important to understand that the difference between federal and state prisons is not the severity of the crimes committed. Many people falsely believe that the federal prison system is reserved for more severe offenders. However, the most dangerous criminals are often housed in state jails.

Juvenile Justice System

Juvenile Justice System

The juvenile justice system is the system that focuses specifically on addressing criminal activities carried out by individuals who are under the age of 18. Minors who have not yet turned 18 are considered to be juveniles. There are certain procedures that are used to handle juveniles who have been convicted of committing crimes. They usually do not receive the same types of sentences that adult criminals do. 
 
 
Scientific evidence indicates that children's brains are not fully developed, and therefore, they are not able to reason the same way that adults can. Therefore, they cannot be held liable for their actions the same way that adults can. Though intervention is necessary, sentencing juveniles to the same punishments and adults would be cruel. In addition, studies show the children are able to learn and modify their behavior. As a result, adequate education and counseling can help a minor to change his/her behavior and avoid criminal behavior in the future.
 
 
The juvenile justice system is responsible for the trial, conviction, and sentencing of minors. Just as the criminal justice system operates on a federal and state level, the juvenile justice system can also operate on a federal and state level. However, in the majority of cases, juvenile justice processes are the responsibility of each individual state. 
 
 
Every state throughout the United States, maintains a juvenile justice department, which is responsible for overseeing the care and rehabilitation of juvenile delinquents. Often, juvenile offenders will be placed within juvenile detention facilities, where they will be educated, and have access to counseling. The specific service offered by a juvenile justice department varies greatly from one state to another. 

Prison Bars

Prison Bars

The Evolution of Prison Bars: From Iron Cages to Modern Rehabilitation

Introduction

Prison bars, though often taken for granted, hold a unique place in the history of criminal justice and incarceration. These unyielding metal structures have played a significant role in shaping the way societies deal with crime and punishment. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history and evolution of prison bars, exploring their origins, purposes, and the changing philosophies behind incarceration.

I. The Origins of Prison Bars

The concept of incarceration as a form of punishment dates back thousands of years, but the use of prison bars as a means of confinement has a relatively recent history. Ancient civilizations employed various methods of confinement, such as dungeons, stocks, and chains, but the idea of using bars to enclose prisoners is thought to have emerged during the Middle Ages.

A. Medieval Origins

During the Middle Ages, castles and fortresses often had dungeons where prisoners were held. These dungeons were dark and dank, making them ideal for keeping individuals in captivity. While these early dungeons did not feature the characteristic prison bars we think of today, they were enclosed spaces with heavy doors and small windows covered in iron grates.

B. Transition to Prison Bars

The transition from medieval dungeons to modern prison bars occurred as societies began to establish formal prison systems. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the concept of the penitentiary, a place where offenders could be rehabilitated through reflection and isolation, gained prominence. This shift in philosophy led to the construction of purpose-built prisons with cells containing iron bars.

II. The Purpose of Prison Bars

The primary purpose of prison bars has always been to confine prisoners securely. However, the reasons for incarceration and the conditions within prisons have evolved over time, influencing the design and use of prison bars.

A. Punishment and Deterrence

In earlier centuries, prisons were often used as places of punishment rather than rehabilitation. The use of prison bars, in this context, was intended to deter potential wrongdoers by showcasing the harsh conditions and the consequences of criminal behavior. The sight of prisoners behind bars was meant to serve as a warning to others.

B. Rehabilitation

As the concept of rehabilitation gained prominence in the 19th century, prison bars took on a new role. Instead of merely punishing offenders, prisons were seen as places where individuals could reflect on their actions and undergo moral reform. The use of prison bars shifted from deterrence to containment, with an emphasis on isolating prisoners from society to facilitate their rehabilitation.

III. The Evolution of Prison Bar Designs

The design of prison bars has evolved significantly over the centuries, influenced by changing philosophies of punishment and advancements in engineering and security technology.

A. Early Bar Designs

The earliest prison bars were relatively simple, consisting of iron bars or grates that were hand-forged and affixed to cell doors and windows. These bars were functional but often lacked the complexity and sophistication of modern designs.

B. Modern Bar Designs

Today, prison bars are manufactured using advanced materials and technologies. They are designed to be highly secure and difficult to tamper with. Modern prison bars are often made from steel, which offers strength and durability. Additionally, bars are engineered to be resistant to cutting or bending, making escape attempts extremely challenging.

C. Protective Coatings

To prevent corrosion and rust, modern prison bars are often coated with protective finishes, such as powder coating or galvanization. These coatings extend the lifespan of the bars and ensure they remain effective over time.

IV. Controversies Surrounding Prison Bars

While prison bars have been a key element of incarceration for centuries, they have not been without controversy. Several ethical and practical issues have arisen throughout history.

A. Ethical Concerns

The use of prison bars to confine individuals has raised ethical questions about human rights and the treatment of prisoners. Critics argue that the use of bars can dehumanize prisoners and subject them to inhumane conditions.

B. Overcrowding

In many prison systems around the world, overcrowding has become a significant issue. When prisons are filled beyond their intended capacity, the use of prison bars can exacerbate the problems associated with overcrowding, including limited access to healthcare and rehabilitation programs.

V. The Future of Incarceration and Prison Bars

As society’s understanding of crime and punishment continues to evolve, so too will the role and design of prison bars. The future of incarceration may involve innovative approaches to rehabilitation and reintegration, which could influence the use of traditional prison bars.

A. Rehabilitation-Centered Design

Future prison designs may prioritize rehabilitation over punishment. This could lead to the development of facilities that resemble treatment centers more than traditional prisons. In such facilities, the use of bars might be minimized in favor of less restrictive forms of confinement.

B. Technological Advancements

Advancements in technology may also reshape the way prisons are designed and operated. Electronic surveillance systems, biometric security measures, and non-lethal forms of incapacitation may reduce the reliance on physical prison bars.

C. Alternatives to Incarceration

Society is increasingly exploring alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders, such as community service, probation, and electronic monitoring. These alternatives may reduce the need for traditional prison bars altogether.

Conclusion

Prison bars have a rich and complex history, reflecting changing attitudes toward crime, punishment, and rehabilitation. From their humble origins in medieval dungeons to their modern steel incarnations, prison bars have played a crucial role in the criminal justice system. As society continues to evolve, so too will the design and purpose of prison bars, raising important questions about the future of incarceration and the treatment of those who have broken the law.

Arguably the most recognizable or synonymous term associated with a prison is the image of solid steel bars. Prison bars are used to confine individuals convicted of a serious offense or felony such as murder, assault, armed burglary, rape etc.

Jail cells are small 6 by 8 foot rooms used to confine individuals convicted of a wrong doing. Jail cells are a fundamental application to enforce the United States’ legal system; without the cells prisoners would roam free or be grouped without surveillance or proper organization. Jail cells are constructed to house as many wrongdoers within a facility as possible; they are stacked on top of each other, and assorted in rows to organize a prison and house as many convicts as possible. As prisons become overcrowded the need for more organized and tighter confinements become a necessity.

Jail cells are comprised of steel and brick; these sturdy materials eliminate the chances of vandalism or escape. The typical jail cell unit has 3 walls and a strong steel door that locks from the outside. The door in some cases is solid, with a small window to observe the inmates. In most instances however, jail cells contain a steel door that is comprised of elongated stainless steel bars.

These prison bars allow correctional officers to freely observe the inmates room as well as his actions. Furthermore, the prison bars also offer an inmate the chance to peer outside of his cell, and even interact with his neighboring cell mates. The openness that prison bars offer can also lead to problems however, as interactions between inmates can spark controversy and problems that extend beyond their confinement. The prison bars are extremely sturdy; they are impossible to bend or snap, diminishing any chance of escape or vandalism.

County Jail Inmates

County Jail Inmates

Many counties in states throughout the country maintain their own jails. A county jail is operated by the sheriff’s department within that county. In addition to county jails, states will maintain a state prison. State prisons are generally larger and more extensive than county jails. 
In most instances, state prisons are reserved for convicts who are sentenced to spend many years in prison. On the other hand, county jails are reserved for individuals who have been given a short sentence, or who have not yet undergone their trial. County jails inmates have been accused of committing crimes, however, they have not necessarily been convicted of those crimes. 
If an individual has been accused of committing an offense, he/she may become a county jail inmate, and remain contained within the county jail until he/she is convicted of a crime, or pardoned. In the event that he/she is convicted and sentenced, he/she may be transported to a state or federal prison, depending upon the sentence he/she received.
In addition to people awaiting trial, county jail inmates may also be convicts who committed relatively minor offenses, and thereby received a short prison sentence. In most instances, inmates contained within a county jail have acquired a prison sentence of one year, or less. 
Due to the existence of judicial discretion, the crimes that were committed to land convicts in county jails may very substantially. While one inmate may have been convicted of carrying a concealed weapon, another may have been charged with a drug offense. Nevertheless, county jail inmates are usually not considered to be dangerous, high risk prisoners. 

Can Cell Blocks Keep Prisoners In?

Can Cell Blocks Keep Prisoners In?

A cell block is a unit within a prison or correctional facility that is comprised of multiple jail cells. Cell blocks enable correctional facilities to house a large number of convicts or those convicted of illegal acts in a highly organized and efficient manner. 
The amount of units or jail cells within a cell block will vary based on the correctional facility and the respective security level attached to it. In most cases, cell blocks are comprised of dozens of jail cells and are organized based on name, date of violation, or the severity of the crime in question. Cell blocks are organized through lettering or numbers; for instance, a correctional facility can contain 6 cell blocks, with the first cell block appropriately labeled ‘cell block A’ and the last cell block labeled ‘cell block E.’
The cell block structure was designed to organize and keep correctional facilities running efficiently. The most common problem associated with an American correctional facility revolves around overcrowding. The cell block was created to mitigate population problems; by grouping inmates and their cells within a compact unit, the correctional facility is optimally using the limited space. 
Typically, each cell block is patrolled or supervised by a team of prison guards or correctional officers. To properly execute their jobs, these guards simply can walk up and down the row of cells, while peering inside the cells to observe the inmates and their activity. 

Don’t Try to Break Out of a Maximum Security Prison!

Don't Try to Break Out of a Maximum Security Prison!

The scope of the United States’ legal system is incredibly expansive; every felony carries a different punishment in a coordinating prison or rehabilitation center. As a result of the legal system’s enormous breadth, the rehabilitation system is diversified to house the varying inmates based on the severity of crime committed. The different facilities that house inmates vary by security level; a maximum security prison for example, is the institution that holds the most dangerous inmates, or those individuals convicted of the most severe offenses such as murder or rape.
Each facility’s classification is categorized based on the security used to run the prison. Security measures, the administration of inmates, the types of housing, and the tactics or weapons used by corrections officers will greatly vary depending on the classification of the facility. The Bureau of Prisons, a federal government program, uses a 1 to 5 numbered scale to classify each security level. 
A maximum security prison falls under the level 5 category or the most secure, while a minimum security prison is accordingly labeled as level 1. In a maximum security prison all prisoners have individual cells that possess sliding doors controlled from a remote control station. Prisoners within a maximum security prison are only allowed out of their cell for one hour a day; when out of their cells, the prisoners must remain the cell block or an exterior cage. The prisoners are constantly monitored by armed guards, and interaction between the prison communities is rare.
Within category 5 exists a level more secure than the maximum security prison. A super max prison facility provides the highest level of prison security. A super max prison holds those considered the most dangerous individuals; this includes inmates who have committed murders, gang violence, assaults, rapes, or other serious violations. 
Inmates in a super max prison are kept under constant surveillance, in a facility that is secluded or heavily guarded by a natural confinement and armed officers. As a result of the dangerous inmates within a super max prison, the resources used to maintain order and discipline must be expansive. 

A Look at the Duties of a Prison Guard

A Look at the Duties of a Prison Guard

A correctional
office or prison guard is the person responsible for supervising correctional
facilities or prisons. Corrections officers must ensure that the environment is
suitable for human life, and safe for all prisoners within the correctional
center. A prison guard’s role is thus essential to the well being of our legal
system; without the enforcing abilities of corrections officers prisons would
run improperly and not aid in the rehabilitation of wrongdoers.

 A correctional officer is responsible for the custody, care, and control
of individuals who are awaiting trial or have been arrested. In essence, anyone
who serves time in jail or is held in a cell will be supervised by a prison
guard or correctional officer. In addition, the team is also responsible for
the safety and the security of the facility–without a team of corrections
officers the prisoners would be under no control, and free to not only harm
each other, but vandalize the actual structure of the facility. Most
correctional officers are employed by the government of the country in which
they work, though a small percentage are also employed by private companies.



Although the
duties of a correctional officer can vary, the general role of the prison guard
includes the various actions:

·        
 A prison guard maintains
order and discipline within the correctional facility.

·        
The prison guard enforces rules,
regulations, and applicable legislation to maintain a suitable environment.

·        
A correctional officer conducts
routine searches of inmates to expel any contraband or weaponry that may be
present.

·        
The prison guard is responsible
for transporting inmates to courts and other correctional facilities.

·        
In response of an assault, a fire,
medical emergency, or a riot the prison guard is responsible for maintaining order and providing first response action. 

How Federal Prisons Function in the US

How Federal Prisons Function in the US

A federal prison
is a form of correctional facility in the United States, which is solely run by
the federal government. Correctional facilities or prisons can be run by state,
county or local authorities; as a result of its advanced and extended
resources, a federal prison is able to maximize security precautions and enable
the correctional facility to harbor the most dangerous or unsafe criminals.
That being said, federal prisons in the United States possess varying levels of
security, and in many cases, simply harbor those individuals who commit white
collar, or non-violent crimes.

As of 2008, the Federal Bureau of Prisons oversaw and maintained over 105
federal prisons. As stated before, the levels of security vary; in total the
federal prisons housed over 195,000 inmates, or 9% of the total prison
population of the United States. Similar to the security levels, prison
sentences within a federal prison will vary. A federal prison will house those
individuals who are convicted of any federal crime, however, individuals may
also be transported there if their original was overcrowded, or an increase in
security is needed.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons has categorized federal prisons into five
distinct security levels. A minimum security facility contains a limited amount
of the 4th category, a low security Federal Correction Institution contains
double-fenced perimeters, and inmates live in cubicle or dormitory housing. A
medium security federal prison is classified to hold medium-security inmates. A
medium security federal prison has strengthened perimeters, which consist of
double fences and electronic detection systems. Although a medium security has
the label “medium” it is typically considered a high-security
facilities. These facilities, which comprise the remaining classifications, are
highly secured with reinforced fences, and walls. 

Prisons Just For Women

Prisons Just For Women

Like the institution for men, a female prison houses those individuals found guilty of committing a crime or act that is regarded as unlawful and demonstrative towards society. Other than the gender of the population, there is no fundamental difference a female prison and a male correctional facility. To many a surprise, women represent the fastest growing population in the American prison system. 
Between 1980 and 1998 the female prison population increased at an overwhelming 313%. By the end of 2000, women account for approximately 7.5% of the total prison population. Women in prison are disproportionately of colors: African American women comprise roughly 46% of the female prison population, white women comprise 32%, and Hispanic Women comprise 22%.
The primary differences found between male prisons and female prisons arise simply due to the psychological and personalities of the two genders. Studies have shown that women in prison are more likely to participate in therapy groups or workshops that aid in solving their problems or to help with pinpointing the reasons for their actions. 
A female prison is typically comprised of poor women–the majority of women prisoners (55%) and women in jail (75%) were unemployed at the time of their incarceration. Furthermore, when a woman goes to prison her family, if she has one, becomes devastated. An estimated 75% of women incarcerated in state prisons have children under the age of 18 years old. 
Because there are so few women correctional facilities it is likely that an incarcerated woman is move farther away from her home than the average male prisoner. This increased distance further strains the family; the increased distance places a toll on the woman’s family during visitation days. In addition, women also experience worse medical care than men. 
Routine gynecological care, such as breast exams, pap smears, and mammograms are exceedingly rare in female prisons. The most common causes of female incarceration are domestic violence, narcotics use, narcotics possession, and burglary. 

Understanding Probation

Understanding Probation

Probation is a type of sentence that is imposed upon individuals who are convicted of violating the law. Generally, this sentence is given as an alternative to incarceration. In most instances, an individual who is placed on probation will not be required to serve any time in prison, assuming that he/she does not violate the conditions of his/her probation.
However, there are some cases in which an individual will begin his/her sentence and then be offered probation. Parole is considered to be an appropriate sentence for many misdemeanor crimes and some felony crimes. In it important to note that probation is not a sentence given to individuals who have committed severe felonies, such forcible rape, sexual crimes against children, or murder, as well as numerous other felony offenses.
When an individual is placed on probation, his/her behavior and activities will be supervised for an extended period of time. Unlike with a prison sentence, a criminal of probation will be required to work and support him/herself, however, his actions will be monitored. He/she will be assigned an experienced probation officer, who will manage and oversee his/her case.
An offender will be required to report to his/her probation officer regularly. In addition, an individual will be required to follow regulations outlined by the court, which will prohibit him/her from consuming alcohol or drugs, or leaving his/her jurisdiction. Each state maintains a probation department, and there is also a federal probation department, which is concerned with the supervision of federally convicted offenders. 
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