Many people believe that jail time reduces reoffending rates. The logic seems straightforward: the individual has been punished and has experienced the ramifications of their actions. They won’t want to risk spending more time in jail, so they avoid committing the same crime after their release.
While this sounds good in theory, studies suggest that jail time often has the opposite effect in reality. Some research even indicates that reoffending rates increase after incarceration. Why does this happen?
Jail time disrupts a person’s life
A criminal conviction resulting in significant jail time can profoundly disrupt the course of someone’s life, leaving them feeling like they have no viable options upon release.
For instance, consider an 18-year-old college student arrested and charged for selling drugs. They were previously studying to become an accountant but now find themselves serving time in jail. Their conviction leads to expulsion from school, cutting short their education and career aspirations.
After their release, they face significant hurdles. Without a degree or meaningful education, they struggle to find employment. Their criminal record creates additional barriers, making it difficult to secure a job, rent an apartment or access lines of credit. Feeling stuck, they may revert to the only thing they know—selling illegal drugs—to make ends meet.
Even if they don’t want to return to jail, the lack of support and opportunities makes recidivism more likely. In this way, incarceration can unintentionally push individuals back into a cycle of crime.
Exploring alternatives
This dynamic highlights the importance of considering alternatives to jail time during sentencing. For those facing criminal charges, understanding all available options is crucial to pursuing a better outcome.