Tail time for young offenders, such as those who are still minors, has been used less often in recent years. But it is still used in many cases, with the hope that it will rehabilitate these young individuals. People often feel that longer jail sentences are the key to stopping crime because those who have been arrested will see the ramifications of their actions and avoid that illegal behavior in the future.
But does that actually work? People certainly believe that time behind bars can rehabilitate someone and keep them from breaking the law again. They also believe that the threat of jail time itself is a deterrent to stop crime before it happens. Do both of these ideas hold any water?
Studies do not find that either thing is true
It’s interesting that so many people hold this position because studies have found that it is not accurate on either account. First and foremost, it does not appear that jail time works as a deterrent to prevent crime. On top of that, those who have spent time behind bars are actually more likely to offend again in the future, not less likely. This means that jail time for these young individuals may be entirely the wrong choice.
Why does it increase the odds of re-offending?
Prison time doesn’t work to reduce future arrest rates because it has such a negative impact on the person’s life. For instance, a young person who now has a criminal record may not be able to go to college and may drop out of high school when they have to spend time behind bars. They may also get out of prison and find it difficult to get a job. All of these complications will, more often than not, push individuals back to the same crimes that led to their arrest in the first place.
Are there other options?
If your child is facing charges, you can see why it’s so important to fight to protect their future Make sure you know about all of the legal options that you have at your disposal.