If the names mean anything, my favorite of correctional facilities, detention centers, and penal institutions would be the first. It implies people are going there to get help rather than to grow mold or get hurt. Prisons nowadays are seen more as resorts or schools for criminals. It is said if you aren’t a criminal when you enter jail, you’ll be one when you come out.
Most people who offer statistics will say over 90% of violent crimes are related to substance abuse. This statistic is reflected somewhat in the willingness of 29 of 37 inmates at the Macon County Detention Center to voluntarily consent to rehab. The Macon County Commissioners approved availing services for substance abuse recovery to inmates and persons released from jail. These programs usually pay for themselves by cutting recidivism rates. Macon County Sheriff Robert Holland is also working on establishing more jail diversion opportunities.
The major sticking points in this oversimplification would be the ramifications of government setting standards for sanity and the success rate of government programs. However, in this world of gray areas, this decision nets some applause out of me.
