Prison Privatization



Abstract

In this study of prison privatization we sketch some insights of the related literature, beliefs, and arguments, economic and social aspects for prison privatization. We analyze a number of studies and with different aspects to present a more theoretical and empirical approach which helps in addressing the research question: what is prison privatization, why it needs to be done, what are the reasons of doing it and what are the motives attached along with it. From the recent studies carried out on the same topic we are able to corroborate some general findings along with the facts and figures available of this research. To have a more in-depth insight we have also gone through the different aspects like economic aspects which help us in developing strong pillars for the research. On the other hand, in order to develop a concrete understanding about the reasons for prison privatization data from National Survey of State Prison Privatization of 1997is also taken into consideration. To explain this we highlight the significant reduction in prison staffing in both private and public prisons where privatization is growing quickly.

(Keywords: Prison Privatization, Recession, Community Economic Development)

Executive Summary

Prison overcrowding is regarded as one of the major problematic issues plaguing the system of criminal justice. Most of the jurists are of the view that it is the incapability of the state that they couldn't help up with the issue and prisons are kept by the private sector while, others argue that this will not work in the 21st century and private sector would not be given access to the matters of state. History revels us the fact that the practice of prison privatization is not a new concept; the practice has been carried out in order to share the public burden. The most important challenge which the criminal justice facing is overcrowding in prisons as well as, the rising operational costs for them.

It was in 1980 when public frustration has increased and they start blaming it as a failure of panel system leads to cut down the funding for rehabilitation of prisoners. One proposed solution that emerged was the privatization of prisons and jails by contracting out. The solution looks to be a best fit at that time while on the other hand; most of them argued and comment that private sector is doing this all for profit.

Currently in United States, there are 184 private prison jails which are operating in different states while, the state Department is of the view that through privatization of prison jails they can reduce the cost up to 20%.

According to an estimate there are 184 privately owned prison jails holding around 132,346 prisoners.

The total estimates for these prison jails are approximately around $ 1billion.

Most of the privately owned prison jails are relatively new and had a capacity of only of 800 beds designed according to the security they required.

Prior studies in this regard shows that privately owned and operated prison jails have same functions as according to the ...