Impacts of Sentencing Models on Correction

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Impacts of Sentencing Models on Correction

Abstract Question: Analyze the impact that various sentencing models have had on corrections. As part of your analysis, you must discuss at least two (2) different sentencing models.

Sentencing models have a critical implication of correction, mainly considering the diversity of options when passing a verdict for a perpetrator. According to Spohn (2014), before the 19th century, sentencing was limited to fines on criminals, probation and other limitations, as well as flat verdicts which did not offer leeway for parole or clemency, leading to a fixed release of prisoners. Spohn (2014) indicates that many criminal justice changes in correction were notable after the 19th century with the development of new sentencing models that revolutionized correction systems in the United States. This essay discusses the impacts of indeterminate, determinate, habitual offender sentencing models on the correction.

First, the indeterminate sentencing model imposes an open period between which a prisoner will serve a term. For example, the model can dictate a period between 10-20 years (Nieto, 1996). This model signifies a broader judicial discretion in passing judgement based on the magnitude of a crime committed. This model has a critical impact on correction because offenders always try to reform to attract a shortened period within the verdict range. For example, under indeterminate sentencing indicating between 10-20 years, a perpetrator is most likely to portray positive reform to earn a release immediately after serving for 10 years. Additionally, Nieto (1996) believes that indeterminate sentencing offers correction officers an opportunity to monitor criminals' behavioural changes and recommend alternative interventions to completely rehabilitate prisoners' character and conduct.

The second model is determinate sentencing, in which judges lack discretion on the period they award to criminals. Under this model, the period awarded is served in full, without any possibilities of parole or any credit as a result of time credit of participation in rehabilitative undertaking during the period (U.S Department of Justice, 1976). This model complicates the process of correction, mainly because it leads to hardened-criminals and prison overpopulation. The fact that prisoners cannot leave the prison before their time does not instill morale and inert behavioural changes. Consequently, criminals' conduct is characterized by a 'don't care attitude,' lack of motivation to go out...