I have extensive work with people on both sides of the fence, and have taught Intro to Corrections at Fairmont State. I can tell you from a "boots on the ground" perspective that you are absolutely right. While the Federal system has some advantages that WV does not have as far as treatment and education and support, it and the State has a LONG ways to go. There's so many issues including our own mindset as a State and nation towards the role and function of corrections.
As a disclaimer, yes, I've worked inside maximum security and I am thankful that there are some people who will not see daylight ever again.
Having said that, corrections is a failed system, the end result of a whole spider web of failed systems. However, I am also a bit of an optimist. I've seen success stories with my own eyes. There are resources being funded by State and Federal sources that can actually work. I believe we may be slowly getting the message, but as stated before, we still have a long ways to go.
I look forward to continuing this much needed conversation with everyone here!
Thank you for writing this. I hope this is part of a series that dives into this deeper and how we can make change!
1. PREACH!
I have extensive work with people on both sides of the fence, and have taught Intro to Corrections at Fairmont State. I can tell you from a "boots on the ground" perspective that you are absolutely right. While the Federal system has some advantages that WV does not have as far as treatment and education and support, it and the State has a LONG ways to go. There's so many issues including our own mindset as a State and nation towards the role and function of corrections.
As a disclaimer, yes, I've worked inside maximum security and I am thankful that there are some people who will not see daylight ever again.
Having said that, corrections is a failed system, the end result of a whole spider web of failed systems. However, I am also a bit of an optimist. I've seen success stories with my own eyes. There are resources being funded by State and Federal sources that can actually work. I believe we may be slowly getting the message, but as stated before, we still have a long ways to go.
I look forward to continuing this much needed conversation with everyone here!