Prison Furlough Programs

Prison Furlough Programs Student: Professor: Course title: Date: Prison Furlough Programs According to the Washington State Legislature, prison furlough is an unsupervised voluntary or involuntary temporary leave of absence from a prison term (n.d). The number of inmates in the USA has grown significantly in the recent past leading to increase in social ills among the offenders within the prison facilities. This paper highlights the pros and cons of prison furlough programs and discusses whether the program should be brought back to the prison systems or not. Pros of prison furlough programs The first advantage is that the program helps to prepare the inmates for improved and fulfilling lives after their term in prison ends (Santos, 2009). The offenders who during the furlough period show dedication and willingness to adapt to the free society and co-exist peacefully with others are usually encouraged and motivated to continue improving on their behavior. Secondly, the programs enable offenders who have successfully gone through the program to get certificates, which they can use to secure employment upon release (National Criminal Justice, n.d). Moreover, skilled criminals get an opportunity to benefit the community using their expertise. The third advantage is that the programs enhance strong relationships between the offender and the community before completing their prison terms (Williamson, 1990). Cons of prison furlough programs The main disadvantage of the furlough program is that some inmates upon being rel...