The 'Million Dollar Inmate': The Financial and Social Burden of Nonviolent Offenders

By Heather Ahn-Redding

Social Science : Criminology

Lexington Books
Publication date: December 2007

ISBN: 9780739157756

Digital Book format: PDF (Adobe DRM)

Buy PDF

List price:

$30.99

Our price:

$27.99

You save: $3.00 (10%)

What kinds of beliefs do most Americans hold about crime and violence, and where do these beliefs come from? What kinds of people are sent to prison-are the average inmates dangerous criminals, or are they involved in low-level drug-related, property, orpublic-order offenses? Who is ultimately paying for their time in prison? The "Million Dollar Inmate" highlights the financial and social costs of America's incarceration of non-violent offenders. With its focus on the specific population of non-violent offenders, this book provides a unique, sociological approach to the problem of handling such a large population at such tremendous costs-paid, for the most part, by taxpayers. Basing her insight on extensive research into the origins of America's correctional systems, the visible and non-visible costs incurred by the practice of incarcerating non-violent offenders, and the goals of the prison system, Heather Ahn-Redding dares to expose flaws in current correctional practices and suggest ways they can be not only changed but also re-envisioned. Ideally suited to researchers, advanced undergraduate students, graduate students, and policymakers.