Regarding the ill-fated Illinois Department of Corrections' early prisoner release program, let's not throw out the proverbial baby with the bath water.
Any time numbers are as large as those handled by IDOC, there are bound to be those who slip under the radar. This should not be dismissed, but in addressing the issue, citizens shouldn't lose sight of the large numbers of inmates who should be returned to the community as soon as possible so that, having paid for their transgressions, they can begin to rebuild their lives.
There are varied levels of inmate risk. Once this risk is determined, it makes little sense to incarcerate anyone longer than needed.
Alternatives to imprisonment are available that provide careful supervision and allow an individual to resume a productive life. These possibilities should be further developed and carefully executed to ensure community safety and the potential for the rebuilding of individual lives.
Long-term economics -- helping people return to our communities as responsible, employed citizens -- should be a major goal in all correctional programs and activities.
Bob Dougherty,
executive director,
St. Leonard's Ministries
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