Corrections

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Over two million adults are incarcerated in U.S. prisons, and each year more than 700,000 are released and return to communities. Within three years, 40 percent will be reincarcerated. RAND research has shown that correctional education programs improve inmates' future job prospects, reduce recidivism, and save taxpayer dollars. RAND also explores the juvenile justice system and innovations that can help corrections agencies respond more effectively in their role to protect the public.

  • Prisoners gather around a computer following a graduation ceremony from a computer coding program at San Quentin State Prison in San Quentin, California April 20, 2015

    Commentary

    Higher Education Programs in Prison Reduce Recidivism

    Evidence shows that correctional education programs are effective—and cost-effective—at improving employment outcomes for participants and at helping to keep them from returning to prison. But given limited budgets, how can the long-term funding of these programs be sustained?

    Aug 28, 2019

  • A woman taking a call in prison, photo by Thinkstock Images/Getty Images

    Report

    Many Detainees with Mental Illness Could Be Safely Diverted to Community Care

    In June 2019, more than 5,500 people in Los Angeles County jails were in mental health housing units and/or were taking psychotropic medications. Based on legal and clinical factors, 61 percent of these individuals were likely eligible for release into community-based treatment.

    Jan 7, 2020

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