Key Concepts in Jail System and Inmate Management

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the jail system, inmate demographics, rights, and rehabilitation.

Jail Types

Facilities for adults and juveniles, including detention centers, with around 3,000 jails in the United States.

Inmates and Processing

60% of jail inmates have not been convicted of the crime for which they are being held.

Overcrowding

Occurs when the number of inmates exceeds the physical capacity of jails; as of 2013, 82% are operating at (or above) capacity.

Overcrowding consequences

Issues include keeping offenders separate, limited programming, strained health and maintenance systems, and stressed staff.

Demographics of Inmates

Most inmates are adult, minority males; there has been an increase in juvenile and female inmates since 1990.

The Poor (or Rabble)

A term coined by John Irwin, referring to the lowest class of people, often detached from society, which includes a large number of mentally ill inmates.

Medical Problems among Inmates

In 2002, over 1/3 of inmates reported a medical problem, with higher prevalence among older inmates; younger inmates are more likely to report HIV.

Inmates’ Rights

Inmates are entitled to reasonable medical care as per the National Commission on Correctional Health Care; jails can choose private healthcare but must meet certain standards.

Substance Abuse and Jails

More than half of jail inmates reported being under the influence at arrest; treatment is complicated since those pending trial cannot be forced into rehab.

Suicides in Jail

Booking can indicate a low point; young, white males have been identified as suicide-prone; suicide deaths are declining, while illness-related deaths have increased.

Gangs in Jails

Gang affiliation among inmates ranges from 16% to 25%; separating gang members is challenging due to the frequent turnover of the jail population.

Sexual Violence in Jails

The Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 mandates data collection on sexual assaults to improve staff training in handling such situations.

Innovations in Jails

New Generation Jails, introduced in the 1980s, emphasize rounded architecture and direct supervision of inmates.

Community Jails

Aim to engage inmates in educational or rehabilitative programs within the community to facilitate smoother transitions upon release.

Co-equal Staffing in Jails

Programs offer comparable pay and benefits for jail staff to those working in law enforcement, aiming to improve morale and standards.

Reentry Programs

Programs designed to reintegrate released inmates into the community, addressing challenges like homelessness and unemployment.