Description
Book SynopsisIn the final decades of the 20th century, a confluence of factors precipitated a policy change in the criminal justice arena that led to unprecedented growth. This growth translated into the criminalization, sentencing and incarceration of tens of thousands of marginalized people in the United States. These factors are considered in Behind American Prison Policy and Population Growth: An Inside Account. Tales are told of the increased prison population that necessitated a continuous unfolding of prison construction projects, rehabbing abandoned state hospitals and private prisons, all with the aim of more and more secure accommodations. During this time, the author was a participant/observer at all correctional security levels, treatment and medical facilities and personnel training in this system. His roles over the years included increased responsibility and regular direct contact with incarcerated individuals in on-the-line or line supervisor positions. The narrative is
Trade Review
“Chris Menton meticulously reconstructs the camaraderie and conflict among Massachusetts correctional staff amidst the nationwide prison boom. Khaki was the new black among workers who held captive, and sometimes provided care for, a growing population struggling with mental illness, substance use disorder, and the inhumanity of mass incarceration."—Nazgol Ghandnoosh, Senior Research Analyst, The Sentencing Project, Campaign to End Life Imprisonment
"This book may be thought of as a bibliotherapy for pessimists about prison reform. It is heartening to read this tale, filled as it is with insight, devoid of the usual stereotypes about people in prison. I came away filled with appreciation for the stories and the insights."—Todd R. Clear, University Professor, Rutgers Law School, Rutgers University
Table of Contents
List of Figures – Acknowledgments – Prologue – Correction Officer Basic Training – Getting Started at the Prison Colony – Inmate Housing Unit 1–2 – The 4:00 by 12:00 Shift – The Quiet House – Lifers and Almost and Soon To Be – More Responsibility Through Experience – The Pre-Release Center by Fenway Park – Urban Pre-Release for a Short Time – Working with the Sick and Imprisoned – Bulletproofish – The People’s Republic of Boston Pre-Release – Opening a Treatment Center – Incarcerated Drunk Drivers – Finding My Way to the Training Academy – Basic Training and Beyond – Where to from Here – Index.
