Most state correctional systems leave the majority of correctional problems in the state to units of local government, concerning themselves instead with the principal institutions and
facilities for housing and managing incarcerated individuals. This distribution of responsibility is often due to the division of powers between state and local jurisdictions in the United States. State correctional systems typically focus on the operation of state prisons, which house individuals serving longer sentences or those who have committed more serious crimes.
To understand why most state correctional systems prioritize the management of principal institutions rather than local correctional problems, we can look at the following factors:
1. Jurisdiction: States have the primary responsibility for administering justice and maintaining public safety. They have the authority to establish and operate their own correctional institutions. Local governments, on the other hand, are responsible for maintaining order and security within their respective jurisdictions.
2. Resource Allocation: State correctional systems have limited resources, both in terms of funding and personnel. As a result, they prioritize the management and operation of their principal institutions, which typically house a larger number of incarcerated individuals and require more extensive resources. By focusing on these major facilities, states can achieve economies of scale and centralized management, which helps ensure effective and efficient operations.
3. Offense Severity: State correctional systems generally handle individuals convicted of more serious offenses and longer sentences. These individuals often require specialized facilities and programs that can only be provided at the state level. Local correctional problems, such as shorter-term sentences or non-violent offenders, are typically better handled at the local level, where resources may be more readily available.
4. Local Control and Flexibility: Local governments are better equipped to address correctional problems that are specific to their communities. They have a better understanding of local needs, demographics, and resources. By allowing local units of government to handle these issues, state correctional systems can empower local authorities to implement programs and policies that are tailored to their unique circumstances.
It is important to note that this distribution of responsibility does not mean that state correctional systems completely abandon local correctional problems. States often collaborate with local authorities through partnerships and funding mechanisms to address specific needs and coordinate efforts in managing the correctional population.
In summary, most state correctional systems prioritize the management of principal institutions for several reasons, including jurisdictional authority, resource allocation, offense severity, and local control. This division of responsibility allows states to focus their resources on higher-level functions while empowering local governments to address correctional challenges within their communities.