The 'Million Dollar Inmate'

The Financial and Social Burden of Nonviolent Offenders

By (author) Heather Ahn-Redding

Not available to order

Publication date:

17 December 2007

Length of book:

256 pages

Publisher

Lexington Books

ISBN-13: 9780739157756

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, or public-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.
The 'Million Dollar Inmate' presents a sobering exposé of the costs involved in this nation's over-reliance on prison as a punishment for non-violent criminal offenders. Ahn-Redding has utilized a myriad of sources to show that prison is neither effective nor cost-efficient as a deterrent to crime. The book sheds light on all the costs of imprisonment, not just brick-and-mortar and personnel costs, but the collateral and hidden costs of incarcerating over two million people who are, because of their imprisonment, unable to contribute to the economic productivity of their neighborhood, or meet their responsibilities as mothers and fathers, leading to the next generations of 'million dollar inmates.'