The AP via the Austin American Statesman reports that U.S. prison numbers are up.  Read: 7M in U.S. Jails, on Probation or Parole

Interestingly and disturbingly, South Dakota leads the nation in the highest percentage increase in incarceration rates.

Excerpt:

Certain states saw more significant changes in prison population. In South Dakota, the number of inmates increased 11 percent over the past year, more than any other state. Montana and Kentucky were next in line with increases of 10.4 percent and 7.9 percent, respectively. Georgia had the biggest decrease, losing 4.6 percent, followed by Maryland with a 2.4 percent decrease and Louisiana with a 2.3 percent drop

We obviously need to put the really bad people away to protect society.  But for many behind bars, drugs and alcohol and mental problems have led them astray.  While punishment might make us feel better, it does nothing to get to the root problems of crime and helping individuals become productive citizens.

Jack Billion, in his campaign for governor, had some excellent ideas in this area.  I hope our state can give some thought to doing more than simply locking people up.