By: Kasandra Fraga

Kasandra Fraga — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 19:26:42 +0000

Mr. Santos,
In your article “Prison Reforms Can Help Solve Gang Problems” you indicated incentives can be used to persuade prisoners to educate and prepare themselves to live as law-abiding citizens while in prison; steering them away from prison gangs. I completely agree with your idea of having incentives and making it easier for people who want to educate themselves to do so, however I do not completely understand the outcome that is expected of this reform.
My questions to you are, if these incentives are offered, what reaction do you expect from the prisoners given this opportunity? And from the prison gangs already establish within prison walls? Do you think the majority of the prison population will take advantage of these incentives?
In your article, you mention Miguel’s story and his attachment to a gang he formed back at home in lieu of a stable family environment. For prisoners like Miguel, do you think they would chose the incentives given to educate themselves, or turn to prison gangs for protection, security, and, to some, a family-like structure?
I enjoyed reading your thoughts about prison reforms and I thank you for all the time you’ve contributed in my understanding of Corrections.
Kasandra Fraga

Comments on: Prison Reforms Can Help Solve Gang Problems

By: Kasandra Fraga